Egypt Explorer
Egypt Explorer
Egypt Explorer
9 Days Starting and ending in Cairo, Egypt
Visiting: Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Aswan, Abu Simbel
Tour operator:
Tour code:
EYE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Egypt with the "Egypt Explorer" tour. Delve into the rich history and culture of this ancient land, starting in Cairo with visits to the iconic pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum. Experience the bustling city life and explore the Citadel and Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Fly to Luxor to marvel at the temples of Karnak and Luxor, then cruise the majestic Nile River, stopping at the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut. Discover the wonders of Edfu and Kom Ombo before reaching Aswan, where you'll visit the High Dam and the Temple of Philae. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel Temple. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in 4-star hotels and a Nile River cruise, with expert guidance and private transport throughout your journey.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Cairo
Location: Cairo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Today is an arrival day. You will be met at the airport (if arriving on Day 1 only) and transferred to the group hotel for overnight accommodation. A group briefing will be held in the afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight hotel in Cairo.
Day 2 : Visit The Great Pyramids
Location: Giza
Accommodation Name: hotel
Before appreciating the best preserved pyramids at Giza, this morning we visit the Step Pyramid at Saqqara which shows the style of construction used to build them. The Step Pyramid was built by the Pharaoh’s chief architect, Imhotep, in 27BC and was at that time the largest stone construction ever built. Following our visit to Saqqara, we travel to the nearby old capital of Memphis. Little remains of the once grand and thriving metropolis, except a small museum and garden. The Great Pyramids of Egypt set on a plateau in the Arabian Desert, are one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the reason for which becomes evident as we first set our eyes on these awesome monuments. We spend the morning exploring the main sites. Time is spent appreciating the majestic Sphinx and wondering at the mystery that surrounds this enormous structure. Overnight hotel in Cairo.
Day 3 : In Cairo, Sightseeing
Location: Cairo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Cairo is a city of more than 18 million people – a bustling, dusty and boisterous metropolis with an abundance of character and history. Our time here is limited although we have included the highlights and focused our itinerary on the archaeological importance of the city and its surrounds. This morning we have a city tour including visits to the Citadel, the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar and Al-Muizz Street. A full afternoon is spent at the Egyptian Museum, providing you with an excellent insight into Egyptian history from the Old Kingdom right through to the Roman Empire. The highlight of the museum is the Tutankhamen exhibit, which houses the treasure from the tomb discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter. Although he was an insignificant Pharaoh, Tutankhamen’s tomb contained a stunning array of gold, including pure gold sandals. It is astounding to imagine what treasures a significant Pharaoh may have taken into their next life, had their tombs not been ransacked. We return to the hotel in the late afternoon for a rest before dinner (NB - dinner is not included in the tour cost; at your own additional expense).
Day 4 : Fly To Luxor, Sightseeing, Board Nile River Boat
Location: Luxor
Accommodation Name: Nile River cruise boat
This morning we transfer to the airport for our internal flight to Luxor, one of the most magnificent cities in all of Egypt (note the flight can be between 05:00 - 10.00am, subject to availability). The city is located on the banks of the Nile, and is built on the site of the former capital of Egypt, Thebes which dates back 4000 years. In the centre of the town is the Luxor Temple and to the north, Karnak and the Temple of Amun. We visit these impressive temples which are well preserved and contain numerous columns, obelisks and in the temple of Karnak, an avenue of ram-headed sphinxes. The imprint of the various Pharaohs, including Tuthmosis III, Hatshepsut, Tutankhamun and Ramses II is evident. During our visit we will be in the company of a local site guide with specific knowledge of these temples. Then we board our comfortable 4/5 star (Standard Class) Nile River cruise boat for overnight. (Please note: we will be accommodated in first class cabins. The boat is not exclusive for our group and is a public cruise vessel. This tour is confirmed on 4/5 stars (Standard Class) cruise. Boat upgrades to higher category (eg. Deluxe or Luxury Class) are possible subject to cost & availability).
Day 5 : Visit Valley Of The Kings And Hatshepsut, Commence Nile River Cruise To Edfu
Location: Valley of the Kings
Accommodation Name: Nile River cruise boat
Today we cross over to the west bank of the Nile visiting the Valley of the Kings, the necropolis for the ancient city of Thebes. The rock-hewn tombs are found in an arid valley and from the exterior it is hard to imagine the riches which once lay within. Ironically the most recent discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamen in 1922 by Howard Carter, the contents of which are now in the Cairo Museum, is the least decorated. The tombs of Ramses I, III, IV, IX, Seti II and Tuthmosis III and IV are all richly decorated with paintings of goddesses and the stories from the Book of Day and Night. We will have the opportunity to visit a few of these tombs depending which ones are open to the public. The tombs are reached through a series of ornately painted underground corridors and ante chambers until these open out to the burial chamber where the sarcophagus is found. There will also be time to visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, the first woman to reign as a king. In paintings and reliefs she was depicted as a man. Return to our Nile River boat for overnight and commence our cruise towards Edfu.
Day 6 : Visit Edfu And Kom Ombo, Cruise To Aswan
Location: Aswan
Accommodation Name: Nile River cruise boat
The days spent sailing on the Nile allow us to relax and take in the view, experiencing first hand rural life on this life-giving river. Our relaxation time is interspersed with visits to the various fascinating temples on the riverside. Early this morning we will visit the temple of Horus at Edfu, which is one of the largest and best preserved in Egypt. Then return to our boat to cruise to Kom Ombo Temple. Afterwards we re-board our boat for overnight and cruise towards Aswan.
Day 7 : Arrive Aswan, Sightseeing
Location: Aswan
Accommodation Name: Nile River cruise boat
We arrive today in the bustling town of Aswan. Set primarily on the East Bank of the Nile, it is the most southern city in Egypt and is said to be the gateway to Africa. Ancient trade routes once crossed over in this town and the Sharia as-Souq today retains all of the activity and colour of the great trading days. We visit the High Dam, which at the time it was completed (1902) was the largest of its kind in the world. This afternoon we will visit the unfinished Obelisk and the Temple of Philae. We return to our boat in the evening for dinner and our last night on board.
Day 8 : Visit Abu Simbel Temple, Fly To Cairo
Location: Abu Simbel
Accommodation Name: hotel
The Great Temple of Ramses II was carved from a mountain between 1290 and 1224 BC and was dedicated to the gods Ra-Harakhty, Amun and Ptah. Threatened by the rising waters of Lake Nasser, UNESCO organised a rescue of the temple in the 1960’s. The rescue involved carving the temple into more than 2000 blocks weighing up to 40 tonnes each and transferring them 210 metres away to a man made mountain, and reconstructing the temple façade which stands 30 metres high and 35 metres wide. From the outside it is hard to imagine that the temple is not original, and only by entering the mountain constructed in steel and concrete, is it possible to appreciate the enormous feat achieved by the archaeological teams. A very early morning wake-up call as we start our overland trip at 4.00am to visit this magnificent temple. Following a tour around the temple, we return to Aswan. Transfer to the airport for our internal flight to Cairo (note the flight can be between 14:00 - 23:00pm, subject to availability). You will be met at the airport and transferred to the group hotel for overnight accommodation.
Day 9 : In Cairo, Trip Concludes
Location: Cairo
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward travel.
If you would like additional nights in Cairo or an airport transfer on any other day, please ask your Reservations Consultant for details. Additional costs apply.
What's Included
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Accommodation
4 nights hotel -
8 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 4 dinners
The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 4 dinners.
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4 nights in 4 star hotels on a twin share basis
Accommodation includes 4 nights in 4-star hotels on a twin share basis.
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4 nights on a Nile River 4/5 star (Standard Class) boat on a twin share basis
The tour includes 4 nights on a Nile River 4/5 star (Standard Class) boat on a twin share basis.
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Airport transfers (day 1 and 9 only) and internal transfers as listed in itinerary
Airport transfers are included on day 1 and 9, along with internal transfers as listed in the itinerary.
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Private transport
Private transport is included in the tour.
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English speaking local guide
An English speaking local guide is included in the tour.
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Entrance fees and sightseeing as listed in itinerary
Entrance fees and sightseeing activities as listed in the itinerary are included.
What's Not Included
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International airfares and departure taxes
International airfares and departure taxes are not included in the tour.
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Internal flights Cairo/Luxor and Aswan/Cairo
Internal flights from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo are not included in the trip price.
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Airport transfers if not arriving/departing on Days 1 & 9
Airport transfers are not included if not arriving or departing on Days 1 and 9.
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Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks are not included.
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Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, phone calls, spending money, etc
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, phone calls, and spending money are not included.
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Tips
Tips are not included in the tour.
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Visa
Visa costs are not included in the tour.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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Optional activities and sightseeing during free time
Optional activities and sightseeing during free time are not included.
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High season surcharge for Easter and between 20 Dec to 7 Jan
A high season surcharge applies for Easter and between 20 Dec to 7 Jan.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights in 4-star hotels in the cities, offering twin share rooms with private facilities. Experience 4 nights on a 4/5-star Nile River cruise boat, also on a twin share basis. While not of Western 4-star standard, these accommodations are selected for their location, cleanliness, and comfort.
What You Carry
More than likely, you will be required to carry your own luggage to and from the bus and hotel reception. On sightseeing days you carry your day pack with all personal items (eg. water bottle, camera, valuables, sunscreen, etc) required for the day.
Grading
Although there is no commitment to extended walking on this journey we nonetheless want to keep the ‘accent on the active’. We therefore advise that any physical training you complete before undertaking the trip will be to good effect. There is no shortage of advantages of packing as much into your time in Egypt as possible. The fitter you are the more this will enhance your experience.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes airport transfers on days 1 and 9, and internal transfers as per the itinerary. Private transport is provided, and internal flights between Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan are not included. A Nile River cruise is part of the journey, offering a unique travel experience.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 4 nights in 4-star hotels on a twin share basis and 4 nights on a Nile River 4/5 star (Standard Class) boat, also on a twin share basis. The hotels are chosen for their position, cleanliness, and comfort, though they may not meet Western 4-star standards.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour?
Airport transfers are included on Day 1 and Day 9 of the tour. If you require transfers on other days, additional costs will apply.
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Is there a local guide provided during the tour?
Yes, an English-speaking local guide is provided during the tour.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 4 dinners. Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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What is the policy on carrying luggage during the tour?
You will be required to carry your own luggage to and from the bus and hotel reception. On sightseeing days, you should carry a day pack with personal items such as a water bottle, camera, valuables, and sunscreen.
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Are internal flights included in the tour price?
Internal flights from Cairo to Luxor and from Aswan to Cairo are not included in the trip price. You can ask for the best available airfare prices when booking.
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What is the level of physical activity required for this tour?
There is no commitment to extended walking on this journey, but it is advised to be physically fit to enhance your experience, as the tour aims to keep an 'accent on the active'.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.