14 Day Egypt Tour (See Great Pyramids & Sphinx & Karnak Temple)

Tour Overview

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Countries Visited: 1 Activity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural

On our Classic Egypt tour, you'll discover a country of mythological proportion and one whose ancient civilization dates back as far as any that the world has seen, Egypt is a land of mystical beauty and incomparable legacy.

For an adventure-packed two weeks, we tour the world-famous historic highlights, like the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx, now symbols of the country's mystery and glory.

We also tour the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, which allows incredible opportunities for close-up exploration inside pyramid tombs, the colossal, 1,500-year-old Karnak Temple, with its tremendous pylon gateway near the Avenue of 1,000 Sphinxes that originally ran all the way to Luxor Temple, and the bounties of the world's longest river; the Nile.

Bewitching desertscapes and lush oases serve as the backdrops to some of the most memorable sceneries on the planet as we spend time marvelling at the architectural and engineering genius of an ancient civilization light-years ahead of its time.

We enjoy a couple of days in the perpetually buzzing capital city of Cairo, from which we head to the museums of the Graeco-Roman colonial city of Alexandria to peruse relics like death masks, mummified crocodiles and statues, as well as to gaze at amazing integrated art in Roman Catacombs.

Donkey-rides on stony pathways, camel treks through the desert and street tours by horse-drawn carriage add an element of authenticity to the experience as we explore the ancient past and contemporary faces of this first-rate destination.

Dates & Prices

Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.

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2023

2024

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Optional Single Supplement: $530 USD (number of singles limited).

Full Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive in Cairo
Today we arrive in Cairo.*

Al-Qahira, literally "The Vanquisher" or "The Conqueror", is the capital of Egypt and the second largest city in the Muslim World, the Arab world and Africa and the 17th largest metropolitan area in the world. Nicknamed "The City of a Thousand Minarets" for its preponderance of Islamic architecture, Cairo has long been a centre of the region's political and cultural life.

* PLEASE NOTE - As tomorrow will be an early start and a full day, you may want to arrive a day early should your arrival time be late at night. Extra nights at the same hotel can be quoted/booked by your tour consultants once your flight schedule is known.

Overnight in Cairo.
Included Meal(s): Dinner

Day 2 Cairo: Memphis & Saqqara, Great Pyramids & the Sphinx
We have an early start for a full-day day of sightseeing. We first travel to Memphis and Saqqara, chronologically the two most important sites in all of Egypt. Memphis was the capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom (ca 2700-2180 BC), and Saqqara was used as a burial place for residents of Memphis including kings, princes and nobles. Our drive this morning takes us through the suburbs of Giza, past some small, colourful villages and plantations in the fertile Nile Valley. At the ancient city of Memphis we will see several statues in a garden-like setting, including the colossal statue of Rameses the Great.

From Memphis we travel a short distance to Saqqara, the ancient burial site. On the site, considered by many archaeologists to be one of the world's most important excavations, is the Step Pyramid, constructed by Imhotep in the 27th century BC. The pyramid began as a simple mastaba, or long, flat tomb building. Over the course of time, Imhotep added to this mastaba five times -- the pyramid eventually measured 62m (203 feet) in height!

After lunch we pay a visit to the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Impressive in their grandeur, the pyramids are estimated to have been constructed over a period of 20 years using more than 100,000 labourers each year. The Great Pyramid of Cheops, constructed from over two million stone blocks, is 135m (443 feet) high! You may enter one of the pyramids through a long, narrow passageway and explore the deep inner chambers (extra fee applicable - ask your Tour Leader).

Later we visit the Sphinx. This feline-human was named by the Greeks because it resembled the mythical winged monster with a woman's head and lion's body. Legend has it that this "Sphinx" proposed a riddle to the Thebans and killed all who could not guess the correct answer! The Sphinx was carved from one solid piece of limestone and measures 50m (164 feet) in length and 22m (72 feet) in height.

Overnight in Cairo.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3 Cairo & Alexandria
Early this morning we travel by road from Cairo to Alexandria. The second largest city in Egypt, known as "The Pearl of the Mediterranean," has an atmosphere that is more Mediterranean than Middle Eastern; its ambiance and cultural heritage distance it from the rest of the country although it is actually only 225 km from Cairo (3-4 hours, depending on traffic).

We head to the southwest of the city and a hill littered with the remains of ancient walls, architectural fragments and rubble on which stands Alexandria's largest ancient monument, Pompey's Pillar, rising from the ruins of the ancient and famous Serapeion (Temple of Serapis). This column of red Aswan granite with a Corinthian capital, standing on a badly ruined substructure and rising to a height of almost 90ft / 27m, is traditionally believed to have been erected by the Emperor Theodosius. We will also see the famous Roman theatre of Alexandria. Dating back to 2nd century AD, this theatre is the only one of its type in all of Egypt.

We also visit the Roman Catacombs, the last existing major construction for the sake of the old Egyptian religion. Though the funerary motifs are pure ancient Egyptian, the architects and artists were schooled in the Graeco-Roman style. Applied to the themes of Ancient Egyptian religion, it has resulted in an amazing integrated art, quite unlike anything else in the world.

Another highlight today is a visit to Bibliotheca Alexandria.* Once the greatest library in the ancient world, the Bibliotheca is dedicated to "the writings of all nations." Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the modern Bibliotheka cost some USD150 million, all by donation from Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iraq.

* Due to admisssion limits related the Covid pandemic and a ticketing system that does not allow for advanced booking, it is possible that our visit to the library may be an exterior viewing only.

We return to Cairo in time for dinner.

Overnight in Cairo.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 Cairo - Fly to Aswan - The High Dam & Unfinished Obelisk
Another early start for our flight to Aswan in Upper Egypt.* Aswan is Egypt's sunniest southern city and an ancient frontier town. Small enough to walk around and graced with the most beautiful setting on the Nile, the pace of life in Aswan is slow and relaxing.

On arrival we'll take a trip to the High Dam of Aswan. Constructed between 1960 and 1971, the High Dam collects and stores water over a number of years so that the annual Nile flood can be controlled. From here we will have a panoramic view of Aswan to the north and Lake Nasser to the south.

On our way back to town, we'll visit the 'Unfinished Obelisk'. The obelisk's creators began to carve it directly out of bedrock, but cracks appeared in the granite and the project was abandoned. The bottom side of the obelisk is still attached to the bedrock. The unfinished obelisk offers unusual insights into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques, with marks from workers' tools still clearly visible as well as ochre-coloured lines marking where they were working.

You'll have some well-deserved time this afternoon for relaxation and independent exploration.

* NOTE: The actual order of our sightseeing in Upper Egypt may vary depending on variables such as flight schedules and weather. Your Tour Leader will keep you apprised of any adjustments as the tour progresses.

Overnight in Aswan.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 5 Aswan: St. Simeon Monastery & Kitchener's Island
This morning we will take a private boat across the River Nile to the west bank. From here we travel by camel across the sandy desert to the Christian Monastery of St Simeon. Before we begin this easy trek, our Tour Leader and camel trainer will teach you the technique of riding a camel. This is a journey that can be undertaken by anyone at any age (one rider per camel). Our trek is about 45 minutes to the monastery, and then 15 minutes back to the riverbank. Those who prefer not to ride can travel by open truck to the monastery and meet up with the group there.

Dating from the 6th century, and in use until the 13th century, the Monastery of St Simeon is one of the best-preserved Christian sites in Egypt. Inside we will see the chapel, living quarters, kitchen and dining areas, wine press, bake area and storerooms. On our tour we will also see the remains of some Coptic frescoes -- depictions of Christ and saints as well as many geometric patterns.

We then return to the banks of the Nile and re-board our boat and ride among the islands dotting the Nile. Up the hill, above the river, is the Mausoleum of the Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismailis, a Shi'ite sect based principally in India but with followers around the world. The tomb is an elegant pink granite structure of late 1950 origin.

The main island in the middle of the Nile is called Elephantine Island because many of the rocks look like elephants bathing in the Nile. On the west side of the river is the beautiful Kitchener's Island, where we will have time to stroll through the rich botanical gardens.

Later this afternoon we have a leisurely sail on a felucca, a traditional sailing vessel used for centuries for carrying goods and passengers along the Nile.

Overnight in Aswan.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 6 Aswan: Abu Simbel & Philae Temple
A pre-dawn departure by road (+/- 3 hours, each way)* takes us south from Aswan across the Western Desert to Nubia, or the "Land of the Gold". Our destination this morning is the impressive Abu Simbel -- the imposing rock temples of Rameses II and his queen, Nefertari.

We have a guided tour of this site, including the interior of the colossal temples. The Temple of Rameses II, with its immense statues of the Pharaoh seated on his throne, is one of the classic images of the power of the Pharaohs. Inside the temple you will see well-preserved wall decorations and several murals. There is a wonderful relief of Rameses presenting captives to various gods, including himself! We also gain insight into the reconstruction process by visiting the interior of the artificial mountain. Return by road to Aswan in time for a late lunch.

Later this afternoon we visit Philae Temple. The temple is dramatically situated on an island, so we enjoy a short boat journey to get to the site. The site is relatively small, but the charm of the setting and the excellent state of preservation makes this a must-see.

* When visiting Abu Simbel we choose to travel by road instead of flying as the air schedules tend to be rather restrictive and do not always allow enough time at the site (much time is taken up by check-in, security, boarding, transferring etc). Driving frees us from this inconvenience and adds flexibility, plus allows us to see the High Dam en route. Departing very early ensures that we are at the site at the optimal time for photography; later in the morning, shadows fall across the temple making conditions less than ideal.

Overnight in Aswan.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 7 Aswan - Luxor via Kom Ombo, Edfu & Esna
This morning we say farewell to Aswan and travel by road to the Temple of Kom Ombo. In ancient times, Kom Ombo was strategically important as a trading town on the caravan route from Nubia to Cairo. Kom Ombo, actually two temples in one, is dedicated dually to Haroeris (Horus) and Sobek, respectively the god of the sky and the crocodile-headed god. Here we are able to see the remains of a mummified crocodile. Crocodiles no longer exist in the Egyptian part of the River Nile, but in Pharaonic times they lived here in great numbers and were worshipped as gods!

From Kom Ombo we travel to the site of Edfu. As the largest and most completely preserved Pharaonic temple, albeit Greek-built, Edfu is dedicated to the god Horus. Construction of this temple began under Ptolemy III Euergetes I in 237 BC. We will allow time to explore this massive and impressive site, enclosed by walls and flanked by two large pylon gateways. Here we will also be able to see a Nilometer -- an ancient technique of measuring the Nile's water fluctuations and setting the level of taxes

Before arriving in Luxor we will make a short visit to the Temple Of Esna. This temple is located on the west bank of the Nile in the ancient city of Senat - called Latopolis by the Greeks. It was "the city of the fish" where the Nile perch fish was worshipped as divine. The temple, which was buried beneath debris for many centuries, is located in the center of the town close to the Nile. The temple is dedicated to the ram-headed god Khnum, the god of creation. Tuthmosis III laid the foundations of the Temple in the 18th Dynasty, but Ptolemaic and Roman Emperors completed it between 40 to 250 A.D., and their names are recorded all over the temple walls.

Overnight in Luxor.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 8 Karnak Temple & Luxor Temple
This morning we start our day with a guided tour of Karnak Temple!

Karnak was built, added to, dismantled, restored, enlarged and decorated during its colourful history of over 1,500 years. At certain points in Egyptian history, this temple was the most important in all of Egypt. When we arrive at the temple you will be awed by the grandeur of the tremendous pylon gateway and the Avenue of 1,000 Sphinxes that originally ran all the way to the Nile and Luxor Temple! We will have a guided tour of the complex, massive by any standard.

After our visit, we enjoy a break before our evening visit to Luxor Temple. The temple was dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Chons and was built during the New Kingdom, the focus of the annual Opet Festival, in which a cult statue of Amun was paraded down the Nile from nearby Karnak Temple to stay there for a while, with his consort Mut, in a celebration of fertility. Luxor temple is considered one of the largest ancient Egyptian temple complexes situated on the eastern bank of the river Nile. At the entrance is a huge tower built by King Ramses II.

Overnight in Luxor.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 9 Luxor: Valley of the Kings
Early this morning we cross the River Nile by boat to the West Bank where the wealth of antiquities is outstanding. On the other side we will meet our donkey-cart transport for our excursion into the Valley of the Kings through the New Gourna Village and into the countryside. Avoiding the busier road, we will witness quiet village life along the way for about 40-45 minutes before re-uniting with our road transport for the final leg into the Valley of the Kings.

Once in the isolated valley, dominated by large pyramid-shaped mountains, we will have a guided tour of three of the many tombs that are here.* The valley was the burial ground for kings throughout the New Kingdom. Note that some of the tombs have steep stairways and all are quite dark inside (you might find a pocket flashlight useful).

We then proceed to the funerary temple of Queen Hatshepsut -- the first woman to rule as pharaoh! We have a tour of this impressive complex, discovered in the mid-19th century and still under restoration.

After our tour we return by bus through the countryside back to the river and the East Bank. During free time this afternoon, we suggest a visit to the excellent Luxor Museum or Mumification Museum.

Tonight you may choose to visit the Sound and Light show at Karnak Temple (optional).

* We do not include the tomb of King Tut, as it is very small and not very interesting, relatively speaking, but we allow time for you to see it if you wish (separate ticket).

Overnight in Luxor.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 10 Luxor: Valley of the Queens
This morning we make an excursion the Valley of the Queens.* After crossing the Nile we will board our bus for the short journey to visit this wonderful necropolis on the western shore of the Nile.

The Valley of the Queens was used as a burial site for the royal women of the 18th, 19th and 20th Dynasties. Ancient Egyptians called this place "Set Neferu" meaning Seat Of Beauty, and today only a few of the eighty tombs are open to the public (we will visit three). The Valley of the Queens holds far more than graves of queens.

As well as our visit to the Valley of the Queens we will also have a guided tour of the workers' village and the Madinat Habu temple. Madinat Habu, also known as the temple of Rameses III was known in ancient times as Djanet, and according to ancient belief, was the place were Amon first appeared. Both Hatshepsut and Tuthmosis III built a temple dedicated to Amon here, and later Rameses III constructed his larger memorial temple on the site.

* Due to periodic and unannounced closures of the tombs at the Valley of the Queens, your Tour Leader may substitute the Tombs of the Nobles, which are equally interesting.

Overnight in Luxor.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 11 Luxor: Full Day Trip to Abydos Temple & Dendera Temple
Today we enjoy a full day excursion north of Luxor to two cities on the banks of the Nile where the fascinating temples of Dendera and Abydos can be found.

Abydos Temple was built by Seti I and his son Ramses II for the God Osiris of the afterlife and resurrection. The temple here is considered by many to be one of the most impressive religious structures in Egypt. Abydos was both an important religious and pilgrimage centre, and here can be found representations of the "Mysteries of Osiris", a ceremony which reproduced the death and resurrection of the God Osiris. Abydos is much less visited than other Nile temples, but the vibrantly colored wall and ceiling paintings, as well as the sculpted column work of the Temple of Seti I, are a highlight of a Nile journey and shouldn't be missed.

On our way back to Luxor we will visit Dendera Temple, one of the best preserved temple complexes in Egypt. Located in the city of Qena (60 km north of Luxor) Dendera was constructed for the worship of Goddess Hathor, goddess of love, beauty, and motherhood in the ancient Egyptian religion. The temple was founded by pharaoh Pepi I (2250 BC) and continued during the New kingdom (1550-1080 BC). What was left dates back to the Greco-Roman time in Egypt. The recent cleaning of the ceiling of the Dendera Temple has revealed has exposed some of the most vibrant and colourful paintings dating from antiquity. The temple has two decorated crypts, two halls with ceilings supported by columns and two funeral chapels, from where the famous "zodiac" from the Louvre comes.

Overnight in Luxor.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12 Luxor - Cairo: Archaeological Museum & Islamic Cairo
Today we fly back to Cairo.

On arrival we proceed to the famous Museum of Egyptian Antiquities* where enjoy a guided tour of some of Egypt's most beloved treasures. Among the 100,000 pieces housed on the museum's two floors is the famous exhibit of Tutankhamun whose tomb was discovered by Howard Carter in 1922. The tomb and treasures of this young Pharaoh, modest by Pharaonic Egyptian standards, is perhaps the best preserved of the discovered tombs. We also see archaeological relics from the Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, New Kingdom and Greco-Roman periods. There is also a separated area devoted to the best-known of the Tut antiquities (the Mummies Room), which you can enter for an optional extra fee (ask your Tour Leader for the current rate).

We then proceed to Islamic Cairo where we will tour the Citadel, begun by Saladin in the 12th century. Today the Citadel's buildings are mainly from the Ottoman period, and are truly grand. From the Citadel, actually a complex of three mosques and four museums, we enjoy an amazing view of Cairo spread beneath the hilltop. Here we will see the fabulous Mosque of Mohammed Ali, also known as the "Alabaster Mosque."

* A new museum is being built, though the much delayed opening date is as yet unclear. As the move takes place, some items may not be on display in either location. Once the museum opens, it will become a part of this itinerary (projected date - TBA).

Overnight in Cairo.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 13 Cairo: Coptic Cairo & Khan el Khalili
Today we drive through the neat, tree-lined streets of the Garden City area to Coptic Cairo, the centre of Christianity in Cairo.* We will walk the cobblestone streets and stop at a few of the churches, including that of Saint Sergius, presumed to be the spot where the Holy Family lived during their flight into Egypt. The present building dates from the 11th century. As we stroll along we will come to the recently restored Synagogue of Ben Ezra, the oldest Jewish synagogue in Egypt. Despite the 45 Jewish families that remain in Cairo, the synagogue is no longer operational.

We then make a stop at the Khan el Khalili Bazaar, one of the most interesting bazaars, not only in Egypt, but also in the whole Middle East. The atmosphere of this traditional market, together with the labyrinthine layout of the streets, gives visitors a glimpse into what medieval markets once were like.

We will also visit the new National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) while back in Cairo, a nice addition to the Cairo museum landscape and an excellent way to recap all that we have done and seen during our tour.

* The Coptic Cairo section of our program exists here in a tentative basis given ever-changing security considerations in this district. Your Tour Leader will advise of the current status once you have arrived on tour and a substitution may be put into place.

Overnight in Cairo.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 14 Departure
Departure from Cairo.

RHLAH S'IDAH!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast

Trip Info

Inclusions
Breakfast and dinner are included daily. All transport, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary. Gratuities for drivers, restaurant staff, porters, local guides. Airport transfers for land & air customers arriving/departing on tour dates.

Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, most lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international (if applicable) and domestic air taxes, visa fees, and any excursions referenced as 'optional'. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance.* Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on shopping, not included meals, and visas.

Seasonality and Weather
This tour is offered for most of the year, except the hotter summer months, May-September. Outside of this time frame, we are able to achieve our busy program, which involves a lot of time outdoors, with greater comfort and safety. That said, once can still expect heat in some locales, especially in Upper Egypt, and especially during "shoulder" times, ie March/April & early October. At these times, your Tour Leader will do his/her best to structure our activities to take advantage of the more comfortable times of day to head out, which could mean some early starts and possibly a block of leisure time midday.

The coolest and most comfortable window is November-February, when Upper Egypt is comfortable and Cairo is cool-chilly.

Transport and Travel Conditions
Over two weeks we travel by bus, felucca sailboat, plane, donkey cart, and camel. Distances covered are not great and roads are generally good, despite the traffic.

Our rating "Level 2" on this tour refers to its ambitious nature, full days, and plenty of time spent on your feet. Some days involve some early starts as dictated by internal flights as well as some excursions, ie Alexandria & Abu Simbel, for which early departures are necessitated by distance and traffic. We also like to get to Abu Simbel in time for sunrise and before large crowds arrive. Many sites visited are LARGE; surfaces are uneven and sloped, and stairs will factor into our visits. Heat can also be a factor in some locations which can, over time, cause fatigue. This is not an 'easy' tour; if you are unsteady or slow on your feet, rely heavily on a cane or any other mobility aid, or tire easily, we regret that this tour would not be suitable.

Though baggage handling is available throughout, you must still be able to fully manage yourself and your things, especially at airports.

IF YOU'RE WONDERING why we don't offer a Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor, we find that by travelling between these two points overland we are able to include more sites (ie Abydos & Dendara) in addition to Kom Ombo and Edfu, where we enjoy private sightseeing instead of having our group combined with other groups on the cruise program. Our independence also allows us to avoid peak periods and crowds at the times that cruise ships generally dock. We know that the notion of a Nile cruise has a special romantic appeal, but we (including our Tour Leaders) have always preferred this alternative. The ships spend most of their time tied up at the docks in Luxor and Aswan and the time actually sailing is rather limited and may occur at night due to the limitations of the transit lock system, which often gets backed up. As cruise programs tend to feature quite a lot of "down time," this option was rarely well-received by past travellers back in the day when we included it. We hope this clarifies!

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.

Accommodation
Hotel accommodation used on tour is on average, 4-star (some 5-star). Most properties have outdoor swimming pools. Single rooms are limited in number and possibly smaller than twins.

Please click on the "Map & Hotels" tab for more information.

Staff and Support
Tour Leader throughout, local drivers, local guides at various locations.

Group Size
Maximum 18 (plus Tour Leader)

Tour Extensions
This tour is part of a series that can be upgraded to make for a longer trip. For more options, please refer to tour code/s:

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21 Day Egypt Tour & Kenya TOURCODE: EG6 The Great Pyramids & Sphinx; Donkey cart trek into Valley of the Kings; Deluxe Nile River cruise; Camel trek to San Simeon Monastery; Daily guided game drives through Africa's best game parks

Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural

For the initial 12 days of this Egypt & Kenya tour, an incredible adventure through two of Africa's most exciting destinations, we explore the many ancient and modern treasures of Egypt, a land of remarkable allure and tremendous scope.

Reminiscent of a journey through time itself, our tour of Egypt encompasses exploration of historic attractions by the dozen, from the Roman theatres, catacombs and UNESCO-Heritage Bibliotheka in Alexandria, to the ancient burial sites and Step Pyramid dating from the 27th century BC at Saqqara and of course, to the most popular of Egypt's bounties; the incredible Great Pyramids and the Sphinx.

Our carriage tour through Luxor and its surrounding countryside to Karnak Temple provides the ideal means to get a feel for local town and village life in Egypt and acts as a precursor for our donkey cart trek along the Valley of the Kings, wherein we enjoy magnificent vistas and have the chance to dismount and explore the insides of a few of the ancient pyramid tombs.

After spending some time at the necropolis of the Valley of the Queens, which houses 80 tombs that act as the final resting place of royal women from the 18th, 19th and 20th dynasties, we aptly end our tour of Egypt with a camel trek across sandy desert and then it's on to the natural wonderland of Kenya for the final nine days of our journey.

Cities that display a pleasant mix of colonial British with modern and traditional African influences mark our route as we travel to the foothills of the country's largest, and the continent's second largest, peak at Mount Kenya.

Through semi-desert savannah plains and thick forests, we get the chance to view the types of animals that can be seen elsewhere only in zoos; cheetahs, lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, crocodiles and innumerable bird species are rife in this abundant area of the world and we come to understand why Kenya is considered as numbering among the best safari locations on the planet.

Along with visits to world-famous national parks and reserves, we get a feel for the indigenous ways of life by mingling with semi-nomadic tribespeople who adhere to traditional customs and elaborate personal adornment.

21 Day Egypt And Jordan Tour TOURCODE: EG5 The Great Pyramids & Sphinx; Museum of Egyptian Antiquities; Donkey cart trek into Valley of the Kings; Camel trek to San Simeon Monastery; Jerash, huge Roman site; Two full days at ancient 'Rose Red City' of Petra

Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural

Few places in the world hold such an array of archeological wonders such as Egypt and Jordan. Steeped in history, Egypt and Jordan tours venture into the ancient capitals and world wonders that have inspired for generations.

From the massive stone structures that make up the Pyramids of Giza to the lost city of Petra, these two countries are the chance to visit a fascinating region half as old as time.

Our journey as a company began in this captivating region, and since 1987 we have been delighted to take intrepid travellers on insightful tours across Egypt and Jordan. The allure of the mighty pharaohs and their monumental projects never cease to amaze.

While the Pyramids of Giza are often thought to be the pinnacle of important sites found within Egypt, our groups on Egypt and Jordan tours often remark that they are just the beginning.

Walk along the avenue of 1000 Sphinxes at Karnak Temple, which was built, added to, dismantled, restored, enlarged and decorated numerous times during its colourful history of over 1,500 years. Venture to the ancient trading town of Kom Ombo, which is actually two temples in one complete with a mummified crocodile which was once worshiped by the Egyptians.

Saddle up with a horse ride in the territory of the Valley of the Kings, to witness not only the destination of the funerary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the first woman to rule as pharaoh, but also to get a sense of the modern Egyptian life in the quiet countryside villages.

With such an overwhelming list of immense temples and complexes, history tends to overshadow the reputation of natural beauty found in the area. Watching the sun rise and set over the sandy expanse of the Sahara as it extends from the green oasis on the banks of the Nile is as memorable as the hieroglyphics carved into the stone.

The colours of gold and pink that line the narrow gorge of the souq in Petra are nearly as photogenic as the elegant columns of the Treasury itself.

Sharing a cup of tea in a goat-haired tent in Wadi Rum with the Bedouin descendants who made up Lawrence of Arabia's army is an impactful moment of calm and an amazing experience within the land of red rocks that look as though they are melting in the setting sun.

The weightlessness one feels while soaking in the Dead Sea's turquoise waters is an unforgettable swim in the lowest place on earth.

In a land half as old as time, with features that make this region amongst some of the most rewarding journeys one can take, now is the right time to join our Egypt and Jordan tours, for it is a place that will etch itself into your memory and leave an impression for a lifetime.

22 Day Egypt And Israel Tour TOURCODE: IS2 Vibrant Tel Aviv; Historic Nazareth; Floating in the Dead Sea; Masada fortress; Jerusalem: Old City tour; The Great Pyramids & Sphinx; Museum of Egyptian Antiquities; Massive Karnak Temple; Donkey cart trek into Valley of the Kings

Tour Overview Countries Visited: 2 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural

Experience a land of timeless appeal, where cultures date back to an ancient time and are rich in their human history; a region where every corner seems to present a once in a lifetime experience, with wondrous sites and unforgettable destinations.

Discover a landscape as dramatic as it is beautiful all while joining a local expert that brings each site to life. Learn first hand why Israel and Egypt tours promise to amaze everyone, from first time visitors to seasoned travellers.

In a land as old as time, finding a historical site is never a difficult task while on our Israel and Egypt tours. From the calm waters and verdant green shores along the Nile River, to the pilgrimage sites that have been visited for a millennia across Israel, there is much to see in this relatively small region. Following our guides, from Egyptologists to archeologists, religious scholars to camel drivers, we capture an in-depth and comprehensive look at these intriguing countries.

Stand in awe beneath the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the great mysteries of human history. Admire the painted petroglyphs still clearly visible in the tombs of the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens. Delight in the countless temples, with incredible details and built on an enormous scale such as that of Luxor or Karnak Temples.

Israel tours follow in the steps of Egypt's tours in terms of historical intrigue. Considered the birthplace of three of the world's largest religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, no trip to Israel would be complete without a thorough look at Jerusalem, a city holy to all three of those religions. Follow our guide to sacred sites such as Dome of the Rock, Western Wall, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, or Mount of Olives, to better understand their place in history and their position in modern life.

Follow the footsteps of prophets as well as ancient empires ranging from the Turks, Romans, Crusaders to the more modern Napoleon and British Empires as you wander alleys full of cafes, galleries and restaurants in the 4,000 year old Jaffa.

Sail the Sea of Galilee to Tiberias, a relaxed seaside resort located in the cradle of Christianity. Dip your toes or go for a float in the salty water of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth with mineral-rich mud that acts as a natural spa.

Our Israel tours will not only focus on the historical importance of this holy land, but we will dive into modern times with a visit to the Knesset, the Israeli parliament, to better comprehend the nation of Israel and the complex establishment of this country.

If it is a land before time you seek, with larger than life historical monuments to explore, than joining our Israel and Egypt tours is a must for you.

32 Day Egypt Tour, Kenya & Tanzania TOURCODE: E19 The Great Pyramids & Sphinx; Donkey cart trek into Valley of the Kings; Daily guided game drives through Africa's best game parks; Snows of Kilimanjaro from Kenya's Amboseli Park; Ngorongoro Crater: natural wonder; Exotic 'Spice Island' of Zanzibar

Tour Overview Countries Visited: 3 Acivity Level: 2 Tour Style: Cultural

Setting down in the bustling metropolis of Cairo, Egypt, we start this extraordinary 32-day Egypt, Kenya & Tanzania tour in magnificent style with a short excursion to Alexandria to see the Roman Theatre, the ancient treasures housed in the Graeco-Roman Museum - including death masks, mummified crocodiles, mummies and statues - and catacombs tunnelled into bedrock in the 2nd century AD.

We see the Pharaonic monuments of the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx, which have since come to stand as symbols of Egypt's mystery and glory, walk cobblestone streets amid beautiful churches and buildings dating from the 11th century, embark upon horse-drawn carriage tours and enjoy donkey and camel rides.

Highlights of our 13-day odyssey through Egypt are our trip to the 1,500-year-old Karnak Temple, remarkable journeys through the valleys of the Kings and Queens and the longest river on the planet; the Nile.

As we fly into Kenya, it's not long before we discover why this special destination enjoys worldwide acclaim for its natural environment.

Gazing out over semi-desert savannah with the glistening glacier peak of the continent's second highest mountain - Mount Kenya - as a backdrop, we scan the endless plains in search of elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, leopards and lions, all the while marvelling at a pristine wilderness yet untouched by Man.

En route to the foothills of the towering Mount Kenya, we have the chance to see crocodiles, zebra, and ostriches, and we also have the opportunity to spend some time with local inhabitants dressed in traditional garb in tribal villages.

We see volcanic phenomena at the Great Rift Valley, watch out for the 'Big Five' in Masai Mara National Reserve, taste a variety of exotic local delicacies in the Carnivore Restaurant (with vegetarian options available) and make our way to the border of Tanzania amid glorious sceneries of rolling grasslands and African plains.

Continuing our tour of some of the best safari destinations in Africa and, indeed, on the planet, we visit Amboseli National Park at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which boasts teeming wildlife as well as an incredible UNESCO-protected crater, and the epitome of all safari destinations at Serengeti National Park, wherein is to be found perhaps the largest concentration of wildlife in the world.

Interspersing admiration of its natural world with exploration of the country's man-made environment, we take in archaeological sites, colonial towns and the many historic sites of the 'spice islands' of Zanzibar.

Map & Hotels

Regions visited: Middle East
Countries visited: Egypt

*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.

The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.

Cairo Pyramids Hotel

Location: Cairo

Country: Egypt

Indulge in an experience that brings together both authenticity and modernity at Cairo Pyramids Hotel. Our 172 rooms have their own private terraces with modern facilities and services, offering you a range ... outstanding views over the city, pool, Great Pyramids of Giza or the Egyptian Grand Museum.

Our spacious and comfortably furnished hotel rooms offer comfort at a high level. Indulge in culinary delights in our restaurants & bars.

Click here to visit hotel website

Movenpick Aswan

Location: Aswan

Country: Egypt

We believe in indulgence done right. At Mövenpick Resort Aswan we, treat our guests to deliciously fresh cuisine, abundant treats and flavours. All dishes are served with a generous portion of ... care at our 5 star hotel in Aswan.

Help yourself to the good life at Mövenpick Resort Aswan. From sunny pool days with the family to indulgent spa time, energizing workouts to immersive cultural experiences, we invite you to enjoy it during your stay in Aswan.

Click here to visit hotel website

Sonesta St. George Hotel - Luxor

Location: Luxor

Country: Egypt

Sonesta St. George Hotel Luxor redefines magnificent contemporary style. Come and enjoy a sweeping terrace with majestic views of the Nile, a grand entrance of polished marble and handsomely appointed furnishings with ... detail, a sumptuous health spa, an array of fine dining choices, and every amenity to please the most discerning traveler. With the mystical Nile just a whisper away and the temples of Luxor and Karnak preserved in time, you can easily experience a city of fascinating antiquity.

Our luxurious 5-star hotel specializes in organizing outstanding business events in the city of history and ancient Egyptian temples. We feature one-of-a-kind Royal Rooms with breathtaking views of the Nile, spacious suites, versatile meeting spaces, and state-of-the-art technology.

Click here to visit hotel website

Gallery

Egypt

From exploring the iconic Pyramids and Sphinx in Giza, to cruising along the Nile River; from visiting the stunning temples of Luxor and Karnak to discovering the vibrant bazaars of Cairo. Our Egypt tours offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history and culture of this ancient land.

Exciting Videos of
Tourcode: EG3

Egypt

From exploring the iconic Pyramids and Sphinx...

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASK A QUESTION

Frequently Asked Questions

ASK A QUESTION

01. What is the maximum number of participants on a trip?

Most of our tours carry a maximum of 18 participants; some tours (ie hiking tours) top out at 16. In the event that we do not achieve our minimum complement by our 60-day deadline, we may offer group members the option of paying a "small-group surcharge" as an alternative to cancellation. If all group members agree, we will confirm the trip at existing numbers; this surcharge is refundable in the event that we ultimately achieve our regular minimum. If the small group surcharge is not accepted, we will offer a refund of your deposit or a different trip of your choice.

02. Can I extend my tour either at the beginning or end? What about stopovers?

Yes, you can extend your tour either at the beginning or the end and we can book accommodation in our tour hotel. Stopovers are often permitted, depending on air routing. Stopovers usually carry a "stopover" fee levied by the airline.

03. How do I make a reservation? How and when do I pay?

The easiest way to make a reservation is to contact us by telephone. You can also book online through our website. A non-refundable deposit is payable at the time of booking; if a reservation is made within 60 days, full payment is required. Some trips require a larger deposit. If international airline bookings require a non-refundable payment in order to secure space or the lowest available fare, we will require an increase in deposit equal to the cost of the ticket(s). Early enrolment is always encouraged as group size is limited and some trips require greater preparation time. Once we have received your deposit, we will confirm your space and send you a confirmation package containing your trip itinerary, any visa/travel permit related documents, invoice, clothing and equipment recommendations, general information on your destination(s), and forms for you to complete, sign and return to us. Your air e-tickets (if applicable), final hotel list, final trip itinerary, and instructions on how to join your tour, will be sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.

04. What about cancellations, refunds, and transfers?

Please review our cancellation policy page for details.

05. I am a single who prefers my own room. What is a single supplement?

All of our tours have a single supplement for those who want to be guaranteed their own room at each location. This supplement is a reflection of the fact that most hotels around the world do not discount the regular twin-share rate for a room by 50% for only one person occupying a room. Most hotels will give a break on the price, but usually in the range of 25-30% of the twin-share rate. This difference, multiplied by each night, amounts to the single supplement. The conventional amount can also vary from country to country and some destinations are more expensive than others for single occupancy. In order to be "single friendly," the supplements we apply are not a profit centre for us and we do our best to keep them as reasonable as possible. On most tours we limit the number of singles available, not to be punitive, but rather because many hotels allow for only a limited number of singles; some smaller hotels at remote locations also have a limited number of single rooms available. Please note that most single rooms around the world are smaller than twin-share rooms and will likely have only one bed.

06. Do you have a shared accommodation program?

Yes! If you are single traveller and are willing to share, we will do our best to pair you with a same-gender roommate. On most of our tours, if we fail to pair you, we will absorb the single supplement fee and you will default to a single room at no extra charge. At some destinations, however, where single rooms are not significantly discounted, or not at all, we may apply a "mandatory" single in the event that we cannot find you a share partner. This is usually 50% of the usual supplement, but can be as much as 100%. If applicable, this proviso will be noted on each tour page on this website, on your invoice, and in our tour date/price book (available for download under "Resources").

What People are Saying

Maria C.

Seattle, WA - US

I most enjoyed the pyramids/sphinx; all the temples and tombs; Nile cruise; Cairo museum, camel ride, donkey ride, felucca ride, horse and carriage ride. All were fun. All the food was excellent. Ahmed [tour leader] was excellent--intelligent and open. He was self-confident and inspired confidence in others. The Egypt tour was excellent. I loved all the special rides (camel and donkey) and the itinerary in general.

Michel B.

Sechelt, BC - CA

All sightseeing elements were very well planned and executed. Our local guide was remarkable. Very knowledgeable of the sites, sharing the local culture with us, his own experiences, always available, answering all our questions intelligently, attentive to each of us needs and sensitivities, in additional to being friendly and even tempered, and always smiling. His high-energy level never faultered once. What a great guy! The transportation was excellent. Good variety of restaurants and food. Experiencing the local food traditions was great. Very good selection of hotels, very pleased. Exceeded our expectations, whether in terms of service, hotels, trip planning, and specifically the tireless efforts and professionalism of our great tour leader. He certainly made it happen for the whole group.

James O.

Williamsburg, VA - US

Loved camel ride to St Simeon monastery. Our tour leader and the hotels were excellent. Excellent tour with many outstanding sites.

Robert G.

Hampton Cove, AL - US

I really enjoyed the Aswan area and all of the wonderful and varied things to see. Camels, boat trips, gardens made for a nice mix. Our tour leader was excellent, he was very hospitable and helpful at all times. Answered all questions and was happy to do it. One of the best tour guides I have had on numerous trips. Great attitude and always upbeat. Very experienced and knowledgeable at all times. Hotels on this tour were excellent. Very nice tour, small groups and nice variety of things to see and do. Camels, donkeys, horses, boats all added to the experience. Good value and experience.

John H.

Boonton, NJ - US

All sites selected were done superbly by our tour leader and the Egyptian guide. The local guide was superb. He was highly knowledgeable in Egyptian history and archeology. He also knew all the good local eateries. The meals on this tour were superb. All I can say about our tour leader is that he was superb. Hope to travel with him again in the future. Hotels on this tour were excellent.

Andrew C.

Windsor, NS - CA

We enjoyed the "monuments". We got to see all of the most famous and important ones. We also enjoyed the day to day life of Egypt that we experienced in the markets, cafes and camel and donkey rides. It was a perfect mix. Everything was just great-keep up the good work. Our local guide was amazing. He was knowledgable,patient with our questions and funny. He offered his personal life experiences so we felt connected to the people of Egypt. Planes, buses ,boats, camels and donkeys. The variety of transportation was exciting and all went as smooth as silk. Our tour leader was excellent. He was gracious and patient. He gave us great advice and took great care of our needs. The hotel locations, services and staff were very very good. In reading my survey results you can see that we were extremely happy with the products and services of AA. We don't know how anyone could have done a better job. We'll highly recommend you to anyone who is interested and contact you as soon as we are ready to travel again. Thank you a thousand times for your commitment to a superlative travel experience.

John S.

Waterdown, ON - CA

I cannot say enough about the exemplary quality of our guide, who made all the experiences one to remember. He was outstanding! Extremely knowledgeable, patient and innovative. Personally, he made my trip far more memorable than if I had undertaken it by myself. Extremely pleased with the transportation! Our drivers were excellent. I had a great time. I wished to visit Egypt since a boy and I was not disappointed.

Cathy O.

Calgary, AB - CA

I really enjoyed the temples and tombs in particular Abul Simbel, Carnak and Valley of the Kings. It was a very good experience. The pyramids were a highlight of course. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and he did an excellent job. This was a good trip.

Joel S.

West Hollywood, CA - US

Particularly enjoyed the major monuments and the care in combining them with local experiences. Our tour leader was terrific. Knowledgeable resourceful and unfailingly kind and patient.

Peggy S.

Bisbee, AZ - 1

Well, I loved the great pyramids as well as all of the temples and tombs. The great bazaar in Cairo was quite wonderful--much better than I'd expected. The desert is really beautiful and the cruise was pleasant! I think I liked most everything about this trip. The evening meals were very good. I feel very good about the trip to Egypt--I feel a pleasant glow, that's for sure~Good country, good guide, pleasant companions, and great sites.

14 Day Egypt Tour Classic In Search of Pharaohs

14 Day Egypt Tour Classic

In Search of Pharaohs