13 Days Culture Trip to Egypt

Opening Night: A Dinner Cruise
The tour starts with a memorable dinner cruise experience on the first night. Guests will enjoy an evening buffet while sailing along the Nile River and witnessing a traditional folkloric dance show. This provides a lovely introduction to Egyptian culture while taking in views of the city at night.

Giza Plateau: Pyramids and Sphinx
The next morning takes visitors to Giza plateau to explore the iconic pyramids and Sphinx. Highlights include stepping inside the Great Pyramid, marvelling at its precise construction. Nearby is the enigmatic Sphinx, cut from natural rock and today still gazing towards the desert horizon. Experiencing these fabled structures up close helps guests connect to ancient times.

Memphis and Saqqara: Tombs and Temples
Next on the itinerary is a trip to Memphis, one of Egypt’s first capitals. Highlights are the alabaster statues including one depicting Ramses II. Nearby at Saqqara, visitors see the Step Pyramid complex, the oldest surviving stone construction and archaeological marvel of Imhotep’s genius.

Alexandria Sights: Historical Ruins
On day three, tours head to Mediterranean coast city of Alexandria. Ruins explored include the Catacombs containing Roman mummies, Pompey’s famous column and Qaitbay Citadel built during the 15th century Mamluk era. The day ends at the new Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library honouring the fabled original.

Luxor East Bank Treasures
In Luxor, the cruise begins with excursions to Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple. Massive stone pillars and hypostyle halls at Karnak never cease to amaze. Luxor Temple is beautifully lit at night, a picturesque way to experience its carved columns and pylons.

Kom Ombo Temple: River Scenery
After sailing through lush farmland views, the next stop is Kom Ombo. Unique because it is dedicated to two gods, the compact temple complex has carved reliefs and galleries offering insights on both gods’ mythology. Nearby scenic vistas of rural landscape are a pleasant change of pace.

Abu Simbel: Colossal Splendour
An early start takes guests to Abu Simbel for the true highlight – its awe-inspiring temples saved from rising waters. Ramses II is immortalized here through four colossal statues towering over 66 feet tall, while carved scenes narrate his military victories. The engineering feat involved in relocating this complex is remarkable.

Aswan High Dam and Rock-Cut Temples
Next is Aswan, where the monumental High Dam generates hydroelectric power for the nation. Nearby attractions visited include the Philae Temple complex moved to save it from flooding, and the Unfinished Obelisk demonstrating ancient techniques. Both sites cast light on important periods in Egypt’s history.

Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples
A day of temple exploration begins with Edfu, renowned for its well-preserved sanctuary dedicated to the falcon god Horus, with hieroglyphic carvings still vividly coloured. Afterwards sightseeing continues at Kom Ombo, dual temple dedicated to the crocodile and falcon gods.

Cairo: Museums and Markets
After flights back to Cairo, highlights toured are the Egyptian Museum housing King Tut’s treasures and Salah El Din Citadel. Next, visiting Khan El Khalili bazaar gives guests a quintessential Cairo experience browsing its labyrinthine lanes stacked high with goods. Farewells are bid at tour’s conclusion, with unforgettable memories of Egypt’s cherished wonders and sites explored on this culturally immersive journey.