Others

All accommodation, activities and meals that are shown in the itinerary are included in the total cost of your trip You will also receive a complimentary transfer to and from the airport if you arrive on day 1 of the trip and depart on the last day and if you have provided your international flight information.

Transport

Air-conditioned coach throughout tour. Simple overnight train from Cairo to Aswan. On the overnight train, we use individual compartments, each containing a bench seat which converts into bunk beds. The carriage steward sets this up and provides bed linen, blankets and pillows. Each cabin is lockable and has a night light and cupboard that houses a small sink, shelf, mirror, towel and power socket plus there is a removable table top that folds into the wall. Dinner and breakfast is delivered by the carriage steward directly to you. Two western style toilets are located at the end of each carriage and there is a communal lounge carriage with a bar serving soft drinks. MS Princess Sara II. On board the Princess Sara II M, you’ll definitely be travelling in style. The entire top deck is a large seating area with swimming pool, providing a great place to relax and take in the stunning Nile views. The interior comprises several large communal areas; the lounge and bar is a great place to socialise with other passengers. The spacious cabins are spread between three floors - each hosting a king or twin beds, en suite facilities, a TV and mini-bar. All are fitted with air-conditioning and wifi (chargeable). There is also a large restaurant, reading area and several shops on board. Evening entertainment is provided on one night during your cruise.

Meals

A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options 9 Breakfasts 4 Lunches 4 Dinners

Guide

Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader’s ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and have a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety is adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.

Accommodation

2 nights in twin-share rooms at the Pyramid Park Hotel. 1 night in a sleeper compartment onboard a simple overnight train. 1 night in a twin-share room at the Isis Corniche Hotel. 3 nights in twin-share rooms on board the MS Princess Sara II. 2 nights in twin-share rooms at the Aracan Luxor Hotel. For more information about the overnight train and the MS Princess Sara II, please see the transport section below. Please be aware that all accommodations are subject to change until 4-6 weeks before the departure date. Final accommodation details will be provided to you with your finalised travel documents.

Not included:

Insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered. If you require travel insurance, TourRadar has partnered up with World Nomads to provide a hassle-free experience. More information can be found here (http://www.tourradar.com/travel-insurance).

Others

Pre and post-tour accommodation - Please contact our Travel Experts for a quote. Tipping. Other meals, snacks and drinks. Single supplement (Optional) - This can be purchased on the ‘Book Now’ page.

Optional

Optional experiences are available on this tour for an additional cost and will be provided to you with your finalised travel documents.

Flights

As we have travellers from all over the world, flights before and after the tour are not included in the tour price and you need to arrange these separately by yourself once your tour is guaranteed. As we specialise in organising the best tours around the world for you, we are unable to advise on flight prices or book flights on your behalf. We recommend that you do not book your flights until your place on the tour has been confirmed. Check out the following link which is powered by Skyscanner to book your flight - https://flights.tourradar.com

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Day 1 Day 1: Join Trip Cairo
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Join Trip Cairo

Arrive in Cairo, Egypt’s vibrant and exhilarating capital. A welcoming place that is home to the best Pharaonic, Coptic and Islamic sites in Egypt; there is an incredible amount to discover here. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Cairo at any time. If you would like an airport transfer today, you’ll need to arrive into Cairo International Airport (CAI), which is a 30 to 45 minute drive to the hotel. At 7pm, our tour leader will meet you in the hotel reception for a welcome meeting. If you want to, there’ll be the chance to go out for dinner afterwards. If you arrive later, our tour leader will catch you up at a later point. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, perhaps you might choose to catch your first glimpse of the mighty Nile River, visit the capital’s medieval market at Khan el Khalili or cross the river to take a walk down the Nile promenade.
Day 2 Day 2: In Cairo; Visit The Pyramids, Sphinx And Egyptian Museum
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: In Cairo; Visit The Pyramids, Sphinx And Egyptian Museum

This morning we make our way to Giza, where we see the Pyramids and Sphinx; among the most impressive man-made spectacles in the world. We explore the pyramid complex, which includes the Sphinx, a crouching lion with a human head carved from solid rock and the splendid Granite Temple. After the morning at the Pyramids, we will grab lunch ’on the go’ heading back into the centre of Cairo to visit the Egyptian Museum; a spectacular repository of over 120,000 items encompassing all aspects of ancient Egyptian life, including ornate jewellery and towering granite statues, mummified remains and, of course, the remarkable golden treasures of Tutankhamun himself. Please note the magnificent new Grand Egyptian museum located in Giza close to the Pyramids, is due to fully open in 2024. Whilst the exact opening date has not been confirmed, when it does opens we will switch this afternoons visit to the new museum.
Day 3 Day 3: Free Day In Cairo To Explore, Overnight Train To Aswan
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Free Day In Cairo To Explore, Overnight Train To Aswan

Today is a free day for optional trips in the capital. This morning there is the opportunity to visit Saqqara, the impressive steppe pyramid/necropolis of Zozer (Djoser), the earliest of the pyramids of Egypt; whilst this afternoon you can take a trip to Islamic Cairo to visit the illustrious citadel, one of Saladin’s many strongholds during the Crusades period. There will also be the chance to enter one or more of the medieval mosques of Cairo. Please see the budgeting section for more details. Alternatively you could use this free time to revisit the vast Egyptian Museum in Tahrir, central Cairo, a short fifteen minute walk from our hotel. This evening we depart for Aswan on an overnight train. We use the best available sleeper compartments, with two berth cabins each containing a bench seat which converts into bunk beds. Whilst the service is designated as first class, the standard is not comparable with European first class train travel. Dinner and breakfast is delivered by the carriage steward directly to you, its also worth purchasing some snacks before you board.
Day 4 Day 4: In Aswan; Tour Of The Philae Temple And Optional Nubian Village Dinner
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: In Aswan; Tour Of The Philae Temple And Optional Nubian Village Dinner

Aswan is Egypt’s most southerly city, traditionally regarded as the frontier post of Upper Egypt. Sited on the east bank, it stands just below the First Cataract and is the meeting point of Arab culture with Nubia and black Africa. Today we explore Aswan and the surrounding area. Our early arrival allows us time to take an excursion to the Philae Temple marooned on a picturesque island, having been relocated when the original site was flooded following completion of the Aswan dam. The temple is adorned with beautifully carved pylons containing some of Egypt’s finest carvings. We travel to the island and back on a small motorboat. Returning to our hotel around lunch time, the afternoon is free to relax, use the hotel pool located on the banks of the Nile or undertake some independent sightseeing. The Nubian bazaar a short walk away from our hotel in the centre of Aswan is well worth a visit, the bazaar contains many unusual stalls including perfume shops and a papyrus institute. Its also possible to take a optional tour to the Aswan high dam completed in 1970 and the unfinished obelisk. This evening there will be the opportunity to take a motor boat journey to a traditional Nubian village for a home cooked dinner with a local family.
Day 5 Day 5: Optional Excursion To Abu Simbel. Board Cruise Boat
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Optional Excursion To Abu Simbel. Board Cruise Boat

Today you may like to take a very early morning trip by bus to the fabulous rock-hewn temple of Abu Simbel. Cut into the rock face, this enormous structure was raised 61m to save it from floods created by the Aswan High Dam. The 20m high statues represent Ramses II, known as the great builder. We will have two hours to explore the famous site before returning to Aswan and boarding our river cruise boat, home for the next three nights. Nile Riverboat cruise On board our cruise, you’ll be travelling in style. Typically accommodating around 130 guests, accommodation is in comfortable twin or double en suite cabins with large panoramic windows offering views of life carrying on along the Nile river. The cabins are well appointed with a TV, fridge, air conditioning and wifi (chargeable). The interior also comprises several large communal areas; the lounge and bar is a great place to socialise with other passengers. There is also a large restaurant, reading area and several shops on board. Evening entertainment is provided on one night during your cruise. The entire top deck is a large seating area with swimming pool, providing a great place to relax and take in the stunning Nile views. We board just in time for lunch. This afternoon is free for you to enjoy the facilities on board and relax, or alternatively explore Aswan’s busy market or perhaps have afternoon tea at the Old Cataract Hotel (dress code applies) from where Agatha Christie wrote her novel Death on the Nile. This evening’s meal is served back on board.
Day 6 Day 6: Cruise Down The Nile River Towards Kom Ombo Temple
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Cruise Down The Nile River Towards Kom Ombo Temple

After breakfast we offer a optional trip on a traditional felucca boat to sail around the Aswan islands including a visit to the Botanical Gardens. We return in time for our cruise to begin and start sailing, heading north (downstream) towards Kom Ombo where we disembark. Situated on the banks of the river, this temple is particularly unique because it is dedicated to two gods; Haroeris and Sobek, the crocodile god. It is thought that this part of the Nile used to have a large crocodile population, hence the dedication to Sobek. This evening, we continue upstream to Edfu city where we overnight.
Day 7 Day 7: Continue To Cruise Up The Nile Towards Luxor
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Continue To Cruise Up The Nile Towards Luxor

Continuing our cruise towards Luxor, there is a scheduled stop at the Temple of Edfu after breakfast lasting around two hours. The only mode of transport to get from the dock to Edfu Temple ( a journey of just over one kilometre, 0.7 miles) is by locally-owned and controlled horse-drawn caleshes. We have received feedback that the condition and treatment of these horses falls well below the standards set out in our Animal Protection Policy and efforts to support improvements have been unsuccessful. With this in mind we encourage you to opt out of visiting Edfu Temple so as not to endorse these poor welfare standards. If you wish to visit the temple please speak to your tour leader who can arrange this for you. Set sail once again to Luxor, arriving in the late afternoon. The evening is free allowing for time to wander around the souks and busy streets before dinner. Later this evening there is the opportunity to experience the sound and light show at Karnak Temple, an incredible display where Karnak and the story of Egypt comes alive, alternatively its possible to visit the Luxor museum or the Luxor Mummification Museum which is open until 9pm.
Day 8 Day 8: Cruise Ends In Luxor, Visit Karnak Temple
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Cruise Ends In Luxor, Visit Karnak Temple

This morning we disembark for the final time and drop our bags at the hotel before visiting the Temple of Amun at Karnak, the labour of numerous pharaohs. Built around 2000 BC, this vast temple was still in progress during Cleopatra’s reign during the 1st century BC. This afternoon is free to relax after a busy few days. It’s possible to visit the Luxor museum and the Luxor Mummification Museum if not visited the previous day, both are within walking distance from our hotel. This morning it is possible to take a optional hot air balloon rise over Luxor, the Valley of the Kings and the Temples of Antiquities on the West Bank. Pick up will be from your boat between 0430 and 0500. See the budgeting section for more details.
Day 9 Day 9: Explore The West Bank, Habu Temple And Valley Of The Kings
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Explore The West Bank, Habu Temple And Valley Of The Kings

Arguably Egypt’s most well known site, this morning we rise early to visit the world famous Valley of the Kings, most well known as the burial site of Tutankhamun discovered in 1922 by British Egyptology Howard Carter, along with another 62 royal tombs. Our visit includes entrance to three of the tombs which will be decided on the day, as many are periodically closed for resting and renovation to protect them. After the three, there will be an option to pay a supplement to visit Tutankhamun’s tomb. Our next stop is the Temple of Hatshepsut. Pharaoh Hatshepsut is believed to be the most successful reigning female power of Egypt, no mean feat during Ancient Egyptian times, and was buried alongside her male counterparts in the Valley of the Kings. Historians throughout modern history offer contrasting information about her reign but walking into the shadow of Hatshepsut’s immense temple, which is built into the limestone rock face on Luxor’s West Bank, is a key symbol of her achievements. The structure is unexpectedly modern by design and was once linked directly with Karnak Temple on the East Bank. Continuing our exploration of the west bank, we visit the striking Habu temple, one of the less visited sites on the west bank and very much underrated. The temple complex is dominated by the highly decorated and well preserved funeral temple of Ramses III depicting scenes of conquests and famous battles. The complex also houses the Temple of Amun, built by Hatshepsut and Tuthmosis III. With the backdrop of the village in the foreground and the Theban hills behind its fitting end to our morning of visiting some of Egypt’s best preserved ancient sites. A home cooked lunch is included today at a local families house on the west bank. Sample traditional dishes such as okra stew, koshari made with rice, lentils, pasta and chickpeas and tagen, a rich tasty tomato based dish, all served with delicious freshly baked bread. We arrive back to our hotel mid afternoon with time to relax for the rest of the afternoon, take a dip in the hotel pool or take a stroll to the lively markets in Luxor.
Day 10 Day 10: Trip Ends Luxor
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Trip Ends Luxor

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Luxor. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Luxor at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel, if you wish to explore more of the city before you depart. If you would like an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Luxor International Airport (LXR), which is 20 minutes’ drive from the hotel.

10 days tour

Classic Egypt With Nile Cruise

This tour includes:

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Itinerary of your trip Classic Egypt With Nile Cruise

Day 1: Join Trip Cairo

Day 2: In Cairo; Visit The Pyramids, Sphinx And Egyptian Museum

Day 3: Free Day In Cairo To Explore, Overnight Train To Aswan

Day 4: In Aswan; Tour Of The Philae Temple And Optional Nubian Village Dinner

Day 5: Optional Excursion To Abu Simbel. Board Cruise Boat

Day 6: Cruise Down The Nile River Towards Kom Ombo Temple

Day 7: Continue To Cruise Up The Nile Towards Luxor

Day 8: Cruise Ends In Luxor, Visit Karnak Temple

Day 9: Explore The West Bank, Habu Temple And Valley Of The Kings

Day 10: Trip Ends Luxor

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