Embark on an unforgettable journey through the wonders of ancient Egypt, where history comes to life with exclusive access and expert guidance. From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the majestic temples of Luxor and the serene Nile River, these tours offer a unique and immersive experience.
Arrival and Orientation
Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, a representative will greet you and assist with visa and airport procedures. After an orientation, your adventure begins!
Day 2 - Saqqara: The Birthplace of Architecture
Visit the ancient necropolis of Saqqara, hailed as the "birthplace of architecture." Admire the Step Pyramid of Djoser, constructed 4,700 years ago by the legendary architect Imhotep. Explore the elaborately decorated Tomb of Mereruka and the Pyramid of Teti, boasting some of the oldest pyramid texts ever discovered.
Exclusive Lecture by Dr. Hawass
In the evening, attend an exclusive multimedia lecture by Dr. Hawass, where he shares decades of research, touching on the mysteries of Tutankhamun, the search for Queen Nefertiti and Cleopatra's tombs, and new findings around the pyramids and in the Valley of the Kings. Engage in a Q&A session and enjoy a formal dinner with Dr. Hawass.
Day 3 - Memphis and Dahshur: Exploring Ancient Capitals
Visit the ruins of Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, and gaze upon a monumental statue of Ramses II carved from limestone. Then, head to Dahshur, home to the Bent and Red Pyramids, built for Pharaoh Snefru. Enjoy a private tour of the Tombs of the Pyramid Builders at Giza, dating back to 2,500 BC. This extraordinary site, uncovered by Dr. Zahi Hawass, has forever changed our understanding of the construction of the Great Pyramids.
Read also: The Language of the Pharaohs
The Tombs of the Pyramid Builders are one of the greatest discoveries. It’s even more important than the discovery of King Tut’s tomb, where we found mainly gold; but this site reconstructed our history. For the first time, we got to know the people who built the pyramids. - Dr.
Day 4 - Giza Plateau: Private Entry and Special Access
Experience the Giza Plateau with exclusive access before it opens to the public. Enjoy private entry to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing today. An Egyptology expert will guide you through the Great Pyramid’s interior, vividly describing its history, construction, and mythology.
VIP Access to the Great Sphinx
Gain VIP access to the Great Sphinx Enclosure, standing right in front of the world’s largest sculpture.
I will tell you all about the latest research and mysteries of the Sphinx and pyramids, including the tunnels under the Sphinx and secret doors and possible hidden chambers in the Great Pyramid. - Dr.
Later, visit the stone quarry of Giza and the Valley Temple of Khafre, used for the Pharaoh Khafre’s mummification and purification before burial.
Read also: Pharaohs: A detailed look
Mysteries of the Great Sphinx!
Day 5 - Karnak Temple: Special Access to the Khonsu Temple
Fly from Cairo to Luxor and visit Karnak, the largest temple complex in the world. Here, enjoy special access to the Temple of Khonsu, one of the best-preserved New Kingdom temples, typically off-limits to the public. Dr. Mostafa Waziri, Egypt’s Head of Antiquities, will personally introduce you to the most recent discoveries and restoration work.
Nile River Cruise
Take a short motorboat ride across the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, a royal cemetery for over 500 years. Enjoy the stunning views of the Nile from the cruise ship’s sundeck while sailing to Edfu or avail yourself of the ship’s amenities. Visit the marvelous Temple of Edfu and the Greco-Roman Temple of Kom Ombo, built between 205 and 180 BC.
In Aswan, visit the Unfinished Obelisk and the Temple of Philae. Experience Nubian culture with a motorboat ride to a Nubian village. See the majestic Abu Simbel Temples, carved out of the mountainside in the 13th century BC for Ramses II and his wife Nefertari. Stop at the Aswan High Dam and enjoy a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile.
Luxor Temple: Exclusive Nighttime Visit
Upon reaching Luxor, explore the magnificent Luxor Temple in complete privacy after it has closed to the public. Witness the temple’s true grandeur under stunning nighttime lighting.
Day 11 - VIP Access to the Lost Golden City
Join Dr. Zahi Hawass on an exclusive visit to the Lost Golden City, built by Pharaoh Amenhotep III and dedicated to the sun god Aten. Experience firsthand why this city is regarded as one of the greatest archaeological treasures in the world.
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As a guest, you’ll join Dr. Zahi Hawass, the very man who unearthed this incredible city, on an exclusive visit. Experience firsthand why the Lost Golden City is regarded as one of the greatest archaeological treasures in the world. Dr.
After the engrossing beginning of the day, you continue with a visit to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, one of the most characteristic temples in Luxor. Next, you discover Deir el-Medina, the ancient workers’ village and home to the artisans and craftspeople of Thebes. On the way back to the cruise ship you stop to admire the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
Cairo and the Grand Egyptian Museum
Fly back to Cairo and enjoy more luxury at a 5-star hotel in Giza before visiting the Saladin Citadel and the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Top off your tour with a VIP tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the world’s greatest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. Explore the museum’s treasures with Dr. Tarek Tawfik, one of the Directors of the Grand Egyptian Museum Project.
Exclusive Lecture by Dr. Khaled El-Enany
In the evening, attend an exclusive private lecture by Dr. Khaled El-Enany, Egypt’s first Minister of Tourism & Antiquities, and learn about the newest discoveries and exciting research.
Tour Packages and Customization
Choose from various tour packages, including a 5 night/6 day option packed with the wonders of ancient Egypt, or customize your own personal trip at no additional cost. Your safety is the primary concern, with 24/7 support and expert local guidance.
12-Day Ancient Egypt Tour with Nile Cruise
This tour includes 12 days, 1 country, and 9 cities, with 11 nights of accommodation, 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners. Explore Luxor and Cairo with an Egyptologist, visit the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, the temples of Karnak, Luxor's Temple and Museum, and more.
Sightseeing Highlights
- Explore Luxor and Cairo with an Egyptologist
- Visit the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, the temples of Karnak, Luxor's Temple and Museum, the temple dedicated to Goddess Hathor at Dendera, the Temple of Isis on the island of Philae, the Temple at Kom-Ombo, the Valley of the Kings and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo
- View the Great Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza, the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan, the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener's Island, the Citadel and the Alabaster Mosque in Cairo
- See the Ramses II statue and Alabaster Sphinx in Memphis, the Sound and Light show in Giza
- Sail in a traditional felucca across the Nile
Included Services
- The services of a professional English speaking Egyptologist / Travel Director throughout your journey
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Return flight from Cairo to Luxor
- Seven-night luxury Nile Cruise
- Flight from Luxor to Cairo
Booking Information
Secure your trip with a low deposit. Flights and extra hotel nights can be added directly. Trafalgar offers a range of included experiences, including Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences. Solo travelers are welcome.
To access your Global Tour Rewards discount, please confirm the name and date of your past trip once you've added your passenger details.
| Tour Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 Days |
| Countries | 1 (Egypt) |
| Cities | 9 |
| Accommodation | 11 Nights |
| Meals | 11 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners |
| Activity Level | Moderate |
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