12 Days Cairo Nile Cruise Casablanca Rabat Meknes Tour

Following a delightful breakfast, meet your expert Egyptologist guide and embark on an unparalleled journey to the Giza Plateau, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Explore the iconic complex, comprising the three majestic pyramids, six smaller queen's pyramids, and the enigmatic Great Sphinx, guardian of these ancient tombs. Your guide will illuminate the history and construction of Khufu's colossal pyramid, the largest and most ambitious. Witness the timeless gaze of the Giza Sphinx, believed to embody King Khafre, eternally protecting the plateau. Adjacent, discover the Valley Temple, where ancient Egyptian purification and mummification rites were performed for royalty. Continue your exploration at the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a modern architectural marvel showcasing over 5,000 years of Egyptian heritage. Be awestruck by the hanging obelisk, the towering statue of Ramses II, and the complete collection of King Tutankhamun's treasures. Afterward, enjoy a delightful lunch at a restaurant offering breathtaking views of the pyramids or the Nile. Your cultural immersion continues with a visit to Saqqara, where you'll behold the groundbreaking Step Pyramid of Djoser, conceived by the legendary architect Imhotep. This six-tiered monument revolutionized ancient architecture and set the stage for later pyramid construction. As this enriching day concludes, you'll transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Aswan, where you'll check into your hotel for a relaxing overnight.

• Giza Pyramids Complex — Explore the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with the timeless Sphinx and Valley Temple.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Discover a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including King Tutankhamun's treasures.
• Saqqara Step Pyramid — Visit the world's first large-scale stone structure, a revolutionary architectural achievement.

Start your day with breakfast before venturing into the charming city of Aswan, a favorite among travelers. Your first stop is the impressive Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering triumph built with UNESCO's support. Learn about its crucial role in controlling the Nile's floods and providing power for Egypt. Next, marvel at the colossal Unfinished Obelisk, the largest ever attempted, a testament to ancient ambition abandoned mid-construction but revealing fascinating insights into quarrying techniques. Conclude your morning at the enchanting Philae Temple, beautifully situated on Agilkia Island. This Ptolemaic-era sanctuary, dedicated primarily to the goddess Isis, was meticulously relocated to protect it from rising waters and remains a captivating site. Afterward, you'll board your luxurious Nile cruise ship, check in, and enjoy lunch onboard. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, taking in the serene river views. Dinner and overnight will be on the cruise ship.

• Aswan High Dam — Learn about this monumental modern engineering project.
• Unfinished Obelisk — Witness the scale of ancient Egyptian craftsmanship in the granite quarries.
• Philae Temple — Visit the beautiful temple of the goddess Isis on Agilkia Island.

After breakfast on board your Nile cruise, join your private guide for a captivating excursion to the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples (note: the transfer to Abu Simbel is typically by road, unless client chooses to fly). These iconic twin temples, carved into the cliffs by Pharaoh Ramses II, stand as eternal symbols of divine power and royal ambition. Explore the Great Temple, dedicated to Amun, Ptah, and Re-Harakhty, and famous for its 'Sun Festival,' when sunlight illuminates the innermost sanctuary. Adjacent, discover the smaller temple dedicated to his beloved queen Nefertari, a rare honor that underscores Ramses II's deep devotion. After immersing yourselves in these monumental wonders, return to your cruise ship for lunch and dinner as you begin sailing northeast along the Nile, experiencing a peaceful overnight on board.

• Abu Simbel Temples — Explore the awe-inspiring rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Nefertari.

Enjoy breakfast onboard as your Nile cruise continues its journey. This morning features visits to two distinctive riverside temples. First, disembark for the unique Kom Ombo Temple, designed with twin symmetrical sections dedicated to two distinct deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris (Horus the Elder). Located on the 'Hill of Gold,' this temple offers remarkable insights into ancient Egyptian medicine, astronomy, and art through its well-preserved reliefs. Next, visit the monumental Edfu Temple, one of Egypt's most complete and well-preserved ancient structures. Dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god, its walls vividly depict the epic mythological battle between Horus and Set, alongside intricate rituals and divine narratives. After these fascinating explorations, return to your cruise ship for lunch and dinner. The ship will then continue sailing towards Luxor, arriving late in the evening for your overnight stay onboard.

• Kom Ombo Temple — Visit the unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris.
• Edfu Temple — Explore one of Egypt's best-preserved temples, dedicated to the falcon god Horus.

After breakfast and check-out from your cruise, your guide will lead you to explore Luxor's astounding sites, beginning with the East Bank. First, immerse yourself in the Karnak Temple Complex, the largest ancient religious site in the world. Built over nearly two millennia, it is primarily dedicated to the Theban Triad—Amun, Mut, and Khonsu—and features the awe-inspiring Great Hypostyle Hall, sacred Precinct of Amun-Re, and the Avenue of Sphinxes. Next, travel to Luxor's West Bank, the 'City of the Dead.' Here, delve into the Valley of the Kings, the burial ground for many of Egypt's New Kingdom pharaohs, including Ramses the Great and Tutankhamun. Explore selected tombs with their vibrant hieroglyphs and intricate artwork. Enjoy a satisfying lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, visit the magnificent Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a stunning example of classical New Kingdom architecture, harmoniously blending with the surrounding cliffs. Conclude your West Bank exploration at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, silent sentinels that once guarded his mortuary temple. Finally, you'll be transferred to Luxor Airport for your flight back to Cairo, where you'll check into your hotel for an overnight stay.

• Karnak Temple Complex — Explore the expansive and historically significant religious complex.
• Valley of the Kings — Discover the burial place of New Kingdom pharaohs.
• Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut — Admire the unique terraced temple dedicated to the female pharaoh.
• Colossi of Memnon — Witness the towering statues of Amenhotep III.

Enjoy breakfast at your Cairo hotel, then check out and meet our representative for a comfortable transfer to Cairo International Airport. You'll board your flight to Casablanca, Morocco's vibrant economic capital. Upon arrival at Mohammed V International Airport, a local representative will greet you and provide a private transfer to your Casablanca hotel. Check in and settle into your new surroundings. The afternoon is yours to relax or begin a gentle exploration of the city at your own pace. Perhaps take a stroll along the Corniche or simply unwind. Enjoy dinner at your leisure (not included) and spend the night in Casablanca.

• Cairo International Airport — Transfer for your flight to Morocco.
• Mohammed V International Airport (Casablanca) — Arrival, meet and assist, private transfer to your hotel.

After breakfast at your hotel, embark on a morning exploration of Casablanca, Morocco's largest city. Your tour includes a visit to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, an architectural marvel perched on the Atlantic coastline. Admire its intricate details and impressive scale. Next, explore Mohammed V Square, the city's central plaza, and perhaps catch a glimpse of local life at the bustling Central Market. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Casablanca Corniche. Following your Casablanca tour, you'll travel north to Rabat, the elegant capital of Morocco. Upon arrival, embark on a fascinating tour of Rabat's key historical sites. Visit the iconic Hassan Tower, the unfinished minaret of an ancient mosque, and the dignified Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of Moroccan traditional art. Wander through the charming Kasbah of the Udayas, a fortified neighborhood with picturesque blue-and-white houses and stunning ocean views. You'll also see the exterior of the Royal Palace. After a day rich in history and culture, check into your Rabat hotel for dinner (not included) and overnight.

• Hassan II Mosque — Explore this stunning coastal mosque in Casablanca.
• Mohammed V Square — Visit Casablanca's vibrant city center.
• Casablanca Corniche — Enjoy a scenic drive along the Atlantic seafront.
• Hassan Tower — See Rabat's iconic minaret and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V.
• Kasbah of the Udayas — Stroll through this charming historic fort and neighborhood.

After breakfast in Rabat, embark on a scenic drive inland towards the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. Your first stop is the expertly preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander among the ancient columns, basilicas, and stunning mosaics that bring Rome's presence in North Africa to life. Continue your journey to Meknes, one of Morocco's four imperial cities. Discover the grandeur of Bab Mansour, considered one of Morocco's most beautiful gates, and visit the historical mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Explore the vast Heri es-Souani, the royal granaries and stables, and the Dar Jamai Museum for insights into local artistry. After experiencing the rich history of Meknes, you'll continue to Fes, checking into your hotel for dinner (not included) and overnight.

• Volubilis — Explore the well-preserved Roman archaeological site with its impressive mosaics.
• Meknes — Visit Bab Mansour, the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the Royal Stables.

Begin your day with breakfast, then immerse yourself in the enchanting labyrinth of Fes, Morocco's oldest imperial city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This full-day tour of Fes will transport you back in time. Explore the intricate alleys and bustling souks (markets) of Fes el-Bali, the old medina, which remains a living medieval city. Discover architectural gems like the Bou Inania Madrasa, an exquisite theological college, and the Nejjarine Fountain, a beautifully tiled historical landmark. Witness the fascinating process at the Chouara Tanneries, where leather has been dyed for centuries using traditional methods. You'll also see the exterior of Al-Qarawiyyin University, the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Your guide will lead you through hidden courtyards, artisan workshops, and vibrant neighborhoods, providing a deep dive into Fes's rich cultural tapestry. Enjoy dinner (not included) at your leisure, perhaps trying a traditional Fassi meal, and overnight in Fes.

• Fes El Bali (Old Medina) — Explore the labyrinthine alleys, souks, and historic sites of Morocco's cultural capital.
• Chouara Tanneries — Observe the ancient leather dyeing practices.
• Bou Inania Madrasa — Visit this stunning Merinid-era theological college.
• Nejjarine Fountain — Admire the beautiful mosaics and architecture.

After breakfast in Fes, prepare for a captivating journey south towards Marrakech. Today's drive takes you through dramatic and diverse landscapes, crossing the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Witness picturesque Berber villages clinging to hillsides, cedar forests, and breathtaking panoramic views. Your experienced driver will make comfort stops along the way, allowing you to stretch your legs and capture stunning photographs. As you descend from the mountains, the scenery transitions to the golden hues of the plains surrounding Marrakech. Upon arrival in the 'Red City' of Marrakech, you'll check into your hotel. In the late afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Jemaa el-Fna Square, a UNESCO-listed spectacle of storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and food stalls that truly comes alive after sunset. Explore the enchanting Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, and admire the iconic Koutoubia Mosque from its exterior. Enjoy dinner (not included) at your leisure, savoring the unique atmosphere of Marrakech. Overnight in Marrakech.

• High Atlas Mountains — Enjoy a scenic drive through stunning mountain landscapes.
• Jemaa el-Fna Square — Experience the vibrant heart of Marrakech at sunset.
• Bahia Palace — Visit a beautifully decorated 19th-century palace.
• Koutoubia Mosque — View Marrakech's iconic mosque and its impressive minaret.

Enjoy your final breakfast in Morocco. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping in the souks or simply to relax. Our representative will then ensure a smooth transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) for your onward flight, concluding your unforgettable Egyptian and Moroccan adventure.

• Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) — Private transfer for your departure flight.