10-Day Egypt Tour: Pyramids, Nile & Red Sea

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, our private, air-conditioned vehicle will take us to the legendary Giza Plateau. Here, you'll stand in awe before the Great Pyramid of Khufu, a monumental testament to ancient engineering, and wonder at the enigmatic Sphinx. We'll also explore the Valley Temple, significant for the mummification rituals. Later, we'll visit the groundbreaking Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), an architectural marvel housing an unparalleled collection, including the complete treasures of Tutankhamun. Enjoy a scenic lunch at a restaurant offering views of the pyramids before heading to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered the world's first true pyramid and a cornerstone of ancient Egyptian architecture.

• Giza Pyramids (Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure) — Explore the iconic pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Valley Temple.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Immerse yourself in ancient Egyptian history and culture at the new, state-of-the-art museum.
• Saqqara Step Pyramid — Discover the revolutionary design of the first pyramid ever built.

Following breakfast and hotel check-out, we'll transfer to Cairo airport for a short flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, your expert guide will lead you on a fascinating exploration of Aswan's highlights. We'll begin at the impressive Aswan High Dam, a monumental engineering achievement. Next, marvel at the colossal, yet 'Unfinished Obelisk,' offering insights into ancient stone-cutting techniques. Conclude your Aswan tour at the captivating Philae Temple, beautifully relocated to protect it from flooding, dedicated to the revered goddess Isis. Afterward, transfer to your luxurious 5-star Nile Cruise ship, where you'll check in, enjoy lunch and dinner on board, and settle in for an unforgettable journey.

• Aswan High Dam — A modern marvel of engineering that significantly impacted Egypt's landscape.
• Unfinished Obelisk — A massive ancient obelisk still partially attached to the bedrock, revealing insights into quarrying methods.
• Philae Temple — A stunning Ptolemaic temple dedicated to Isis, accessible by boat.

Wake to breakfast onboard your Nile Cruise as we continue our journey. Today, we'll dock and visit the unique Kom Ombo Temple. This distinctive structure is dedicated to two deities simultaneously: Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and Horus the Elder, the falcon-headed god. Observe the symmetrical design and fascinating details of this riverside sanctuary. Enjoy lunch and dinner as your cruise sails gracefully along the Nile, offering picturesque views.

• Kom Ombo Temple — A dual temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus on the banks of the Nile.

After a delicious breakfast on board, our cruise will reach Edfu. We'll disembark and visit the magnificent Temple of Edfu, arguably the best-preserved ancient Egyptian temple. Dedicated to Horus, the falcon god, its towering pylons and intricate reliefs offer a remarkable window into Ptolemaic-era architecture and religious practices. Return to the cruise ship for lunch, dinner, and another peaceful evening sailing the Nile.

• Edfu Temple — An exceptionally well-preserved temple dedicated to the falcon god Horus.

Enjoy your final breakfast on the Nile Cruise before disembarking in Luxor, the ancient capital of Thebes. Our exploration begins on the West Bank, at the famous Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of pharaohs like Tutankhamun. Next, we'll visit the stunning Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, carved into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, and pause at the colossal statues of Memnon. After a delicious lunch at a local Luxor restaurant, we'll cross to the East Bank to explore the immense Karnak Temple Complex, a sprawling sacred city built over centuries. Finally, check into your Luxor hotel for the night.

• Valley of the Kings — Explore the burial chambers of New Kingdom pharaohs.
• Temple of Hatshepsut — Admire the unique terraced design of the female pharaoh's mortuary temple.
• Colossi of Memnon — Giant statues of Amenhotep III standing guard on the West Bank.
• Karnak Temple Complex — Wander through the vast complex of temples, chapels, and pylons.

After breakfast at your Luxor hotel, we'll embark on a scenic drive by private, air-conditioned vehicle to the idyllic coastal city of Hurghada on the Red Sea. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Relax by the pool, stroll on the beach, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Lunch and dinner will be served at your hotel.

• Hurghada — Relax and unwind at your Red Sea resort.

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. Today is dedicated to exploring the breathtaking underwater world of the Red Sea. Our group will head out with an experienced snorkeling instructor who will guide you through vibrant coral reefs, teeming with colorful fish and marine life. This immersive experience promises unforgettable encounters with nature's beauty. Enjoy lunch and dinner back at your hotel, recounting your underwater adventures.

• Red Sea Snorkeling Excursion — Discover the rich biodiversity and coral gardens of the Red Sea.

After breakfast this morning, we'll transfer to Hurghada Airport for a domestic flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you on a captivating tour of Cairo's rich cultural tapestry. Our visits include the original Egyptian Museum, home to a vast collection of artifacts. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before exploring Old Cairo's historic landmarks: the serene Hanging Church, the revered Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque (Africa's first mosque), and the charming Ben Ezra Synagogue. We'll also visit the impressive National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), renowned for its Royal Mummies Hall, and take a stroll down the historic Al Muizz Street. Conclude your day with a visit to the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, perfect for souvenir hunting. Return to your Cairo hotel for the evening.

• Egyptian Museum (Tahrir) — Explore fascinating ancient artifacts prior to the opening of GEM.
• The Hanging Church — One of the oldest and most famous Coptic Christian churches in Cairo.
• Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque — Visit Africa's first mosque, a significant site in Islamic history.
• Ben Ezra Synagogue — Discover this historic synagogue within Old Cairo.
• National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) — Home to the enthralling Royal Mummies Hall.
• Al Muizz Street (Historic Cairo) — Walk through a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing stunning Islamic architecture.
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar — Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cairo's famous market.

Enjoy a final breakfast at your Cairo hotel. At the appropriate time, a private vehicle will transfer you to Cairo International Airport (CAI) for your departure, bringing your marvelous 10-day Egyptian journey to a close. We hope you've created cherished memories of ancient wonders and vibrant culture.

• Cairo International Airport (CAI) — Transfer for your international flight home.