Princess Sarah II Nilkreuzfahrt

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Your private Egyptologist guide will then whisk you away to begin an unforgettable exploration of Egypt's most iconic ancient sites. Our journey begins at the Giza Plateau, home to the legendary Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, truly the last surviving Ancient Wonder of the World. Marvel at the scale and precision of these monumental structures, built over 4,500 years ago. Stand in awe before the Great Sphinx, the enigmatic guardian with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, and visit the Valley Temple, where ancient mummification rituals took place. Next, we'll head to a panoramic viewpoint for breathtaking photo opportunities. You'll then enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant with stunning views of the pyramids. In the afternoon, we'll venture to Saqqara, the vast ancient burial ground that houses the groundbreaking Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered the world's first stone building. Finally, we'll immerse ourselves in the future of Egyptian archaeology with a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), an architectural marvel that showcases an unparalleled collection of ancient artifacts, including the complete treasures of Tutankhamun. After a day filled with incredible discoveries, you'll return to your hotel.

• Giza Plateau — Explore the three Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Valley Temple.
• Saqqara Complex — Discover the Step Pyramid of Djoser and its surrounding funerary complex.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Tour one of the world's largest archaeological museums, housing King Tut's treasures and more.

Savor a delicious breakfast at your Cairo hotel before checking out. Your private driver will transfer you to Cairo International Airport for a scenic flight to Hurghada, Egypt's vibrant Red Sea resort town. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your luxurious 5-star resort, where you'll enjoy a smooth check-in. The rest of your day is yours to unwind and soak in the beauty of the Red Sea coast. Relax by the pool, stroll along the beach, or simply enjoy the amenities of your resort.

• Cairo International Airport — Private transfer for your flight to Hurghada.
• Hurghada Resort — Check-in to your resort and enjoy leisure time by the Red Sea.

Today promises an exhilarating adventure beneath the waves! After breakfast, embark on a private snorkeling excursion by boat to discover the breathtaking underwater world of the Red Sea. Equipped with all necessary gear, you'll explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. This immersive experience offers a chance to marvel at nature's artistry in its purest form. After your aquatic adventure, you'll be transferred back to your hotel to relax and enjoy the rest of your evening.

• Red Sea Snorkeling Excursion — Private boat trip for snorkeling amidst vivid coral reefs and marine life.

After breakfast and checking out from your Hurghada hotel, private air-conditioned transport will take you on a comfortable journey to Luxor, the 'world's greatest open-air museum.' Upon arrival, your expert Egyptologist guide will meet you to begin exploring Luxor's iconic East Bank. Our first stop is the colossal Karnak Temple Complex, an extraordinary religious site dedicated to the Theban Triad. Wander through its vast courtyards, towering pylons, and the famous Hypostyle Hall, feeling the weight of millennia of devotion. Afterward, you'll check into your luxurious 5-star Deluxe Nile Cruise ship, your floating hotel for the next few nights. Enjoy lunch onboard and some relaxation time before reconvening with your guide this evening. As dusk falls, we'll visit the beautifully lit Luxor Temple, an ancient masterpiece adorned with stunning statuary and reliefs. Located right on the Nile, it's particularly magical at night. Finish your day with dinner aboard your cruise ship.

• Karnak Temple Complex — Explore the largest ancient religious site in the world, dedicated to the god Amun-Ra.
• Luxor Temple — Visit the elegant temple on the East Bank, particularly atmospheric when lit at night.
• Nile Cruise Check-in — Settle into your luxurious floating accommodation.

Wake up to a delicious breakfast onboard your cruise ship. Today, we delve into the mysteries of Luxor's West Bank, the ancient 'City of the Dead.' Our first stop is the legendary Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of pharaohs from the New Kingdom. Here, you'll have the incredible opportunity to explore several royal tombs, marveling at their vibrant hieroglyphics and intricate artwork (entrance to three tombs is included). Next, we visit the extraordinary Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, a stunning example of New Kingdom architecture carved into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, dedicated to Egypt's powerful female pharaoh. Our final stop on the West Bank is the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood majestically for over 3,400 years. After a morning of profound discoveries, return to your cruise for lunch. The afternoon is spent leisurely cruising the Nile, gazing at the timeless landscapes as we sail towards Edfu.

• Valley of the Kings — Descend into the burial chambers of New Kingdom pharaohs (includes 3 tombs).
• Temple of Hatshepsut — Admire the unique terraced mortuary temple of the female pharaoh.
• Colossi of Memnon — See the imposing statues of Amenhotep III.

Enjoy breakfast onboard before joining your private Egyptologist guide for an excursion to the remarkably preserved Temple of Edfu. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, this Ptolemaic temple is one of Egypt's most complete and offers an incredible insight into ancient religious practices and architecture. We'll explore its grand courtyards, sanctuaries, and reliefs depicting mythical battles. Return to your cruise ship for lunch as we continue our scenic sailing towards Kom Ombo. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you to the unique Temple of Kom Ombo. This fascinating structure is a 'double temple,' symmetrically dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Discover its twin sanctuaries, halls, and the well-preserved Nilometer. After your visit, we'll return to the cruise for dinner as we set sail for Aswan. You'll spend the night peacefully docked in Aswan.

• Temple of Edfu — Explore the best-preserved cult temple in Egypt, dedicated to Horus.
• Temple of Kom Ombo — Visit the unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus.

An early start this morning for an extraordinary journey to Abu Simbel! You'll receive a breakfast box before embarking on a private tour to these awe-inspiring temples. Carved directly into the rock face during the reign of Ramses II, the Great Temple and the Small Temple (dedicated to his beloved wife Nefertari) are among Egypt's most breathtaking monuments. Marvel at their immense scale, intricate reliefs, and the incredible story of their relocation to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Your guide will bring the history and mythology of these temples to life. After this profound experience, we'll return to Aswan, where you'll rejoin your cruise ship for lunch and dinner, enjoying a relaxing afternoon and evening.

• Abu Simbel Temples — Witness the magnificent rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Nefertari.

After a final delicious breakfast on your Nile cruise, you'll check out. Today, we explore Aswan's significant modern and ancient landmarks. Our first stop is the Aswan High Dam, a monumental engineering feat of the 20th century that created Lake Nasser and significantly impacted Egypt's agricultural and economic landscape. Next, we visit the Unfinished Obelisk, still lying in its ancient quarry. This colossal granite monolith provides unique insights into the stone-cutting techniques of ancient Egyptians. Finally, we take a short boat ride to the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Beautifully relocated to Agilkia Island after the construction of the High Dam, its stunning setting and intricate carvings are truly captivating. After these inspiring visits, you'll be transferred to Aswan Airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo, you'll be met and transferred to your 5-star hotel for check-in and overnight.

• Aswan High Dam — Learn about this modern engineering marvel and its impact.
• Unfinished Obelisk — Gain insight into ancient Egyptian stone masonry at the quarry.
• Philae Temple — Boat ride to the beautiful temple of Isis on Agilkia Island.
• Aswan Airport — Transfer for your flight to Cairo.

After breakfast at your Cairo hotel, prepare for another day of cultural immersion with your private Egyptologist. Our journey begins at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), home to an unparalleled collection tracing Egypt's rich history from prehistoric times to the present, including the fascinating Royal Mummies Hall. Next, we'll explore the historic Coptic Cairo district. Wander through the serene alleyways and visit the 'Hanging Church' (St. Mary's Church), one of Egypt's oldest churches, perched above a Roman fortress gate. Afterward, we'll dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Islamic Cairo, strolling through the enchanting Al-Muizz Street, an open-air museum of medieval Islamic architecture. Our day culminates with a visit to the bustling Khan el Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest and most famous souks in the Middle East. Here, you can practice your bartering skills, find unique souvenirs, and soak in the lively ambiance. Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening, savor your final dinner in Cairo and reflect on your incredible journey.

• National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) — Explore Egypt's entire history, including the Royal Mummies Hall.
• Coptic Cairo — Visit the 'Hanging Church' and other historic Christian sites.
• Al-Muizz Street (Islamic Cairo) — Stroll through a stunning area of medieval Islamic architecture.
• Khan el Khalili Bazaar — Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cairo's historic market.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in Cairo. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxation. Your private driver will then transfer you comfortably to Cairo International Airport for your departure, filled with incredible memories of your 11-day Egyptian odyssey.

• Cairo International Airport (Departure) — Private transfer for your international flight.