2024 - Nubian Discovery Tour

2024 - Nubian Discovery Tour

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9 Days From

$1724

2024 - Nubian Discovery Tour

9 Days Starting and ending in Cairo, Egypt

Visiting: Cairo, Aswan, Luxor

Tour operator:

Fez Travel

Tour code:

NUAD

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 18

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

8-99

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Sailing

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1724

NB: Prices correct on 14-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the 2024 Nubian Discovery Tour, a captivating journey through Egypt's rich history and vibrant culture. Begin in Cairo, exploring the Egyptian Museum, the iconic Giza Pyramids, and the enigmatic Sphinx. Travel by overnight sleeper train to Aswan, where you'll visit a traditional Nubian village and the stunning Temple of Philae. Sail the Nile on a traditional felucca, then discover the grandeur of Edfu's Temple of Horus and Luxor's ancient wonders, including the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple. Conclude your adventure in Cairo, wandering the bustling Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. With professional Egyptologist guides, luxurious accommodations, and immersive experiences, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Egypt's timeless treasures.

Highlights

  • Cairo - Egyptian Museum

  • Cairo - Giza Pyramids and The Sphinx

  • Aswan - Nubian Village and Temple of Philae

  • Felucca Sailing on the Nile

  • Edfu Temple of Horus

  • Luxor - Valley of the Kings and Queen Hatshepsut Temple

  • Luxor - Karnak Temple

  • Cairo - Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Cairo

Location: Cairo

Accommodation: Cairo Sheraton / Crowne Plaza West Cairo-Arkan (5 star)

Accommodation Name: Cairo Sheraton / Crowne Plaza West Cairo-Arkan (5 star)

Upon your arrival, our team will greet you at the airport, help with visa procedures and luggage handling, and accompany you to your hotel to begin your journey. They'll assist in settling you in, familiarize you with the surroundings, and provide details about tomorrow's plans. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure. If you arrive early, consider experiencing an evening dinner cruise along the Nile or attending a stunning sound and light show at the pyramids-both easily arranged upon your arrival.

Day 2 : Pyramids, Sphinx And Museum

Location: Cairo

Accommodation: Sleeper Train (Private Twin Berth Cabin)

Accommodation Name: Sleeper Train (Private Twin Berth Cabin)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Our journey through Egypt commences with a visit to the Egyptian Museum in central Cairo, renowned for its impressive Tutankhamun exhibit and extensive collection of ancient artifacts. Accompanied by our knowledgeable Egyptologist guides, this tour offers insights into Egypt's rich history and culture. Following the museum exploration, we venture to Giza on the outskirts of Cairo to marvel at the Sphinx and the iconic pyramids. The Great Pyramid of Khufu stands as a testament to ancient architectural marvels. Climbing inside the pyramids is an option available to visitors, offering a unique perspective into their grandeur.
As the day concludes, we make our way to the station for an overnight sleeper train journey to Aswan, an approximately 12-hours.

Day 3 : Aswan, Nubian Village And Philae Temple

Location: Aswan

Accommodation: Tolip Hotel (5 star)

Accommodation Name: Tolip Hotel (5 star)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Upon arrival in Aswan, we transfer to our hotel, overlooking the Nile River, where traditional feluccas glide across its waters. Aswan, a melting pot of African and Middle Eastern cultures, offers a vibrant atmosphere through its bustling markets. Venturing into a local Nubian village, we gain insights into the Nubian way of life, characterized by simplicity and resilience. A delectable traditional lunch awaits us, reflecting the region's culinary traditions. Our afternoon unfolds with a visit to the Temple of Philae, an island sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis. Once submerged by rising waters, the temple was meticulously relocated, preserving its architectural splendor.
As evening descends, we explore Aswan's vibrant spice and general markets, stroll along the Corniche, or embark on an optional camel ride through the sands to St. Simeon's monastery.

Day 4 : Abu Simbel Option. Nile Felucca Cruise

Location: Aswan

Accommodation: Felucca (Felucca)

Accommodation Name: Felucca (Felucca)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Early risers can embark on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its majestic temples built by Ramses II. The aim is to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the rising sun casting its golden glow upon these ancient monuments. Those opting to stay in Aswan can explore the vibrant markets, stroll along the Corniche, or visit the Nubian Museum.
As lunchtime approaches, we board our traditional Nile felucca, embarking on a leisurely afternoon sail down the tranquil waters of the Nile River. We immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, observing the rhythms of rural Egyptian life unfolding along the riverbanks. Our expert Nubian crew expertly navigates the felucca, entertaining us with their stories and preparing delectable meals for our enjoyment. Throughout the day, our separate facilities boat will rendezvous with us, providing welcome restrooms, showers, and a hygienic kitchen.
As dusk descends, we settle onto the felucca's deck, our sleeping arrangements prepared with mattresses, blankets, and mosquito nets. This unique experience offers a glimpse into the simple yet enchanting lifestyle of those who live along the Nile.

Day 5 : Edfu Temple And Luxor Temple

Location: Luxor

Accommodation: Steigenberger Nile Palace Hotel (5 star)

Accommodation Name: Steigenberger Nile Palace Hotel (5 star)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following a delightful breakfast aboard the felucca, we bid farewell to our Nubian crew, embarking on our northbound journey from Aswan to Edfu to visit the huge Temple of Horus. As we approach Luxor, a city steeped in ancient history, we are greeted by an unparalleled concentration of ancient wonders. Across the Nile lies the grand City of the Dead, dotted with mortuary temples and rock-hewn tombs, while to the east, the imposing Temples of Luxor and Karnak stand as testaments to Egypt's ancient grandeur.
As the sun begins its descent, we embark on an optional walking tour of the smaller Luxor Temple, its intricate carvings and towering obelisks illuminated by the soft glow of evening lights. Emerging from the temple, we carry with us a profound sense of awe and admiration for the architectural and cultural achievements of ancient Egypt. The Luxor Temple, with its enchanting blend of light and shadow, serves as a fitting finale to our Egyptian adventure.

Day 6 : Luxor, West Bank Tour, Free Time

Location: Luxor

Accommodation: Steigenberger Nile Palace Hotel (5 star)

Accommodation Name: Steigenberger Nile Palace Hotel (5 star)

Meals Included: Breakfast

The day begins with an early Nile crossing for our Luxor West Bank exploration. We delve into the Valley of the Kings, a significant archaeological site where the enigmatic tombs of Pharaohs continue to unveil mysteries, showcasing the essence of ancient Egypt. Our itinerary covers various Pharaonic tombs, Queen Hatshepsut's temples, Medinat Habu, and the grand Colossi of Memnon.
An optional early morning sunrise hot air balloon flight is available for those seeking an aerial perspective of the west bank at sunrise.
Following this, the afternoon is yours to relax in the amenities of a 5-star Nile-side hotel. Alternatively, indulge in further exploration by discovering Luxor's markets, visiting the mummification museum, embarking on a felucca trip to Banana Island, or diving deeper into Egypt's history with additional optional sightseeing. Excursions to the Ramesseum, Workers Village, and the Valley of the Queens, facilitated by your guide, can be arranged for a supplemental fee to cover transport, entry fees, and the guide's service.

Day 7 : Luxor, Karnak Temple

Location: Luxor

Accommodation: Sleeper Train (Private Twin Berth Cabin)

Accommodation Name: Sleeper Train (Private Twin Berth Cabin)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After a leisurely morning, we'll embark on an afternoon journey to the sprawling temple complex of Karnak. This vast sanctuary was connected to Luxor by an avenue lined with majestic sphinxes, and a canal linked it to the Nile. Stepping through the immense pylon entrance, we enter the expansive courtyard, where three chapels stand in reverence to the gods Amun, Khonsu, and Mut. As we venture further into the temple complex, we are awestruck by the Hypostyle Hall, a colossal space supported by 134 towering columns. Each column is etched with scenes of gods and pharaohs, their stories immortalized in stone.
As the sun begins to set, we bid farewell to Karnak, its grandeur etched in our minds. Our journey then takes us to the station, where we board the overnight sleeper train, embarking on a journey back to Cairo, approximately 9 hours.

Day 8 : Cairo, Khan-El-Khalili Bazaar

Location: Cairo

Accommodation: Cairo Sheraton / Crowne Plaza West Cairo-Arkan (5 star)

Accommodation Name: Cairo Sheraton / Crowne Plaza West Cairo-Arkan (5 star)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Upon our return to Cairo this morning, we transfer to our accommodation, granting you most of the day to explore Cairo as per your preference or engage in optional tours. Choices abound, including a city tour encompassing Coptic Cairo, the Citadel, and Mohamed Ali Mosque, or a half-day excursion to Saqqara, Dashour, and Memphis-sites that unveil the pyramid's historical evolution. For a more extensive adventure, an additional option involves a day trip to the desert outskirts of Cairo to witness the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of the Whales at Wadi Rayan.
Later in the afternoon, we embark on a guided walk through central Cairo's labyrinthine backstreets and bustling bazaars. Meandering through the monumental Bab al-Futuh gateway, we explore alleyways dedicated to various crafts like metalwork, spices, pottery, fabrics, jewelry, and more, gradually arriving at the vibrant Khan-el-Khalili bazaar. Amidst this bustling atmosphere, we take a break to savor tea, a shisha pipe, and perhaps indulge in an early dinner featuring Egypt's unofficial national delight, Kushari, before returning to our hotel.

Day 9 : Cairo

Location: Cairo

Accommodation: ()

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your schedule is open today for any final sightseeing or shopping before we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.

What's Included

  • Professional English-speaking tour guide/ Egyptologist for all sightseeing tours

    A professional English-speaking tour guide or Egyptologist will accompany you for all sightseeing tours.

  • Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle

    Transportation will be provided in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle.

  • Overnight sleeper train - Cairo to Aswan

    An overnight sleeper train journey from Cairo to Aswan is included.

  • Overnight sleeper train - Luxor to Cairo

    An overnight sleeper train journey from Luxor to Cairo is included.

  • Tips except driver, guide and felucca crew

    Tips are included except for the driver, guide, and felucca crew.

  • Meals

    The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners.

What's Not Included

  • Visas, border or port taxes

  • Hotel gala dinners (if charged by the hotels on 24 & 31 Dec, see 'Notes' section)

  • Egypt Tipping kitty (allow US $75)

  • Suggested optional activities

  • Entrance fees

  • Compulsory Travel Insurance

Meals

8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicles, overnight sleeper trains from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo, and a traditional Nile felucca cruise for a unique sailing experience.

Accommodation

Experience luxury with stays at 5-star hotels like Cairo Sheraton, Crowne Plaza West Cairo-Arkan, Tolip Hotel, and Steigenberger Nile Palace, complemented by unique overnight sleeper train journeys and a traditional felucca cruise.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes stays at 5-star hotels such as the Cairo Sheraton or Crowne Plaza West Cairo-Arkan, Tolip Hotel in Aswan, and Steigenberger Nile Palace Hotel in Luxor. Additionally, there are overnight sleeper train journeys between Cairo and Aswan, and Luxor and Cairo, as well as a night on a traditional Nile felucca.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners. Meals are provided at various points throughout the tour, including on the felucca and during hotel stays.

  • What transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation is provided in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking vehicle. The tour also includes overnight sleeper train journeys from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo, as well as a felucca sailing experience on the Nile.

  • Is there a professional guide during the tour?

    Yes, a professional English-speaking tour guide or Egyptologist is provided for all sightseeing tours.

  • What optional activities are available during the tour?

    Optional activities include an evening dinner cruise along the Nile, a sound and light show at the pyramids, a camel ride to St. Simeon's monastery, an excursion to Abu Simbel, a hot air balloon flight over Luxor, and various additional sightseeing options in Luxor and Cairo.

  • What is the sleeping arrangement on the felucca?

    Sleeping arrangements on the felucca include mattresses, blankets, and mosquito nets, allowing for a comfortable night under the stars on the Nile.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for our latest Covid-19 policies, however, we adhere to recommended health & safety guidelines on all our tours.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Fez Travel has been in operation since 1997.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Please contact us as soon as possible and we will be able to let you know what is possible and any associated price changes.

Reviews of this operator

Ania Afz (Google Reviewer)  

Fez Magic Carpet Travel with...

08-Aug-2024

Fez Magic Carpet Travel with Mr. Goku Pamir was an amazing experience. He was professional, knowledgeable and understanding. Our group was able to add some places, thanks to him arranging it for us and adding a boat and House of Mother Mary for us. We even saw mulana Rumi's place and learned about Sufi dance , which is the best. He surprised our group with 4D theatre at the library of Celsius and showed us original Carpet, Silk, and Leather makers. Overall, it was a wonderful experience because he stopped at the best food places for breaks frequently and even gave us a small keychain as a reminder gift or souvenir besides the gifts Fez gives us. Fez travels offers wifi and charging ports in their bus which is a life saver. Hotels and places visited were all beautiful and I recommend visiting Turkeye with Mr. Goksu Pamir. Thanks.

shahid siddiqui (Google Reviewer)  

I gathered wonderful memories of...

15-Jul-2023

I gathered wonderful memories of Turkey. Fez Travel Turkey with an intelligent, knowledgeable guide Göksu Parmir made this possible. Excellent transport, Excellent places of stay, excellent selection of Restaurants starting from Istanbul to Cappidocia with a perfect humble driver Mr Saifi. Guide plays a very important role. Guide Göksu had a wonderful Knowledge of place and it's history.

Jan Runnalls (Google Reviewer)  

Did a 13 day tour...

19-Oct-2024

Did a 13 day tour of Turkey with 3 days onboard a Gulet in October 2024. What an amazing experience ! Our guide Fa was amazing ! I don’t think I’ve ever met a guide to beat him !! He was so knowledgeable, so friendly, and so helpful ! He organised so many little extras. He found a laundry for us, helped buy stamps and post postcards, organised a trip to a pharmacy and then read the medicine boxes for us. He organised a WhatsApp group so we could share photos and information. Our driver Han supported all these extra trips and activities including the pharmacies !! Brilliant !! Highly recommend Fez Travel and I hope you are lucky enough to have Fa and Han for your tour !!

Theresa Martinovich (Google Reviewer)  

Just completed the Magic Carpet...

09-Sep-2023

Just completed the Magic Carpet Tour of 11 days with Fez. The accomodation, food and driver were excellent. Our guide Tamer was like a walking encyclopedia of knowkedge and was extremely kind and caring to all members of the group, responding to our every whim and wish. The accomodation far, far exceeded our expectations. We loved every minute.

Al Reid (Google Reviewer)  

Our guide Can was brilliant....

14-Sep-2024

Our guide Can was brilliant. Very well organised. He was Turkish so knew so much information and tips. We were always in the right place at the right time and avoided crowds all the time. Our driver Cengiz was also fantastic, very safe and careful.

Amrita V (Google Reviewer)  

I did a Turkey Highlights...

09-Jan-2023

I did a Turkey Highlights 10 day tour in Sept 2021. It was absolutely amazing. Our tour guide— Chagmn. He was extremely knowledgeable and well-read. Fez travel organized everything extremely well and food was simply amazing. It was a great experience to learn the history and see it alive in Turkey. Highly recommend the tour to everyone. Here are a few photos of the highlights of the trip. Must do things include: Epephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, Hagia Sophia

Michael Oon (Google Reviewer)  

Fez Travel has organised for...

05-May-2018

Fez Travel has organised for us one of the best tours that we had. Together with our guide – Serdar Ozkan, we travelled some 3,300km around Turkey following the itinerary. As a private group, we could alter the programme. Serdar could feel the mood of the group and altered the schedule appropriately but more importantly, took us to where the best food available. This arrangement together with the excellent driving of the long distances, the suitable accommodation and interesting sites made this trip of a life time. One aim was to see the Tulips in Istanbul. The date of 13th April was suggested. Had we arrived earlier, the tulips would not have been in bloom. When we returned to Istanbul on the 20th, the tulips had withered. This is an example of their recommendations. For us, what was promised was delivered with a smile. Thank you Fez Travel.

Laurel Siokos (Google Reviewer)  

Recently we completed a 17...

22-May-2024

Recently we completed a 17 day tour with Fez and then a separate private tour Fez organised and personalised to our needs. We found the whole experience smooth and professionally planned. We had wonderful guides beginning with Fatih Carsi, who we found to be extremely knowledgeable, with deep insight on the significance and history of each site visited. We travelled in a small group which made our experience all that more personal. As we were doing an extended tour we left our group and travelled on with Zeynup, who also was extremely knowledgeable,warm and engaging.Our driver Metin was kind and personable. Zeynup went to great lengths and was very patient assisting us with a difficult hotel management and staff in a particular location. The next leg of our journey we were shown around by another wonderful guide Fatma, a bright and enthusiastic local, who proudly showcased Cappadocia to us. We met with Birhat in Van ,another local guide who was easy to connect with on a personal level and between him and Sal, our entertaining driver we experienced a beautiful region of Turkey together. Nothing was too much trouble, from frequent photo stops to impromptu roadside snowball fights.Lots of fun was had along the way. Halil and Hakan, our driver took over for the next stage of our experience. This team were consumate professionals and a pleasure to spend time with. Halil was not only informative but was an exceptional communicator on many levels. We will remain friends with Halil and do our best to connect again in person on our next adventure. Last but definitely not least was Korkut, Mr. Go the Extra Mile. Korkut made the closing stage of our Fez Turkish tour unforgettable,going well beyond the call of duty making sure we will never forget the sights we saw our our amazing adventure in this wonderful country. Truly the world largest open air museum ,but more than that people who will forever remain Our Heart.

Dee Carty (Google Reviewer)  

We took Colours of Tyrkey...

22-Dec-2023

We took Colours of Tyrkey tour in May22. There was no problem contacting Canan Kararrsian prior to the tour but we had no feedback or response to the long email we sent outlining our difficulties and grievances. There were problems every step of the way. The letter we sent is too long to attach here but issues like being called at 4am for an internal flight arriving 4 hrs before departure. No luggage allowance booked. Coach with only 2 of us on board constantly under repair for days and eventually broke down on the way to the airport...............and so on. We would not have felt so aggrieved if we had a response to our complaint. We are seasoned travellers and are tolerant of hic- ups. We have never made a complaint before. Booking my current trip has prompted my review.

Jane S (Google Reviewer)  

I wouldn’t recommend this company....

09-Oct-2024

I wouldn’t recommend this company. The tour guide was poor at explaining sites, he also was aggressive with some of the people on the tour. Scam company - if you didn’t pay for the hidden extras then you’d have a tour of being driven around to pushy sales companies to try and get you to buy things. Food places were gross at times, often gas stations (there were other options around too) but clearly commission based. Don’t use this company

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Sunday

Nov 30, 2024 - Dec 08, 2024
$1724

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 14, 2024 - Dec 22, 2024
$1724

Saturday - Sunday

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 05, 2025
$1795

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Fez Travel requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of fez travel charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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