11-Day Grand Egypt Expedition

Awaken to a delicious breakfast before embarking on a day steeped in ancient grandeur. Your expert Egyptologist guide will lead you to Giza, where the iconic Great Pyramid of Khufu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, majestically awaits. Stand in awe of this monumental structure, then gaze upon the enigmatic Great Sphinx, guardian of the plateau. Next, journey through time at the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), an architectural marvel housing an unparalleled collection of artifacts, including the complete treasures of Tutankhamun. After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, explore the Step Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara, the world's oldest stone building and a testament to Imhotep's genius. Conclude your day with a transfer back to your Cairo hotel.

• Giza Pyramids Complex — Witness the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with the timeless Sphinx.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Explore a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including King Tut's treasures.
• Saqqara - Step Pyramid — Discover the revolutionary Step Pyramid of Djoser, the first major stone construction in history.

Savor breakfast before a scenic drive to Alexandria, the 'Pearl of the Mediterranean.' Your journey begins at the impressive Citadel of Qaitbay, a robust fortress built on the very site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. Next, immerse yourself in knowledge at the modern Library of Alexandria, a magnificent architectural rebirth of its ancient namesake. After a wonderful lunch, continue to Pompey's Pillar, a colossal Roman triumphal column, and then descend into the fascinating Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a unique blend of pharaonic and Roman funerary art. As dusk falls, return to your Cairo hotel for the night.

• Citadel of Qaitbay — Visit the medieval fortress guarding Alexandria's harbor, built on the foundations of the ancient lighthouse.
• Library of Alexandria — Explore the grand modern library, a beacon of knowledge.
• Pompey's Pillar — Admire the impressive Roman victory column.
• Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa — Descend into the largest Roman burial site in Egypt, showcasing intricate carvings.

After breakfast and checking out from your Cairo hotel, you'll be transferred to Cairo Airport for a short domestic flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, your Aswan guide will greet you, ready to unveil the wonders of this serene southern city. Begin with a visit to the monumental Aswan High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering that reshaped Egypt's landscape and economy. Next, marvel at the enormous Unfinished Obelisk in the ancient granite quarries, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated stone-cutting techniques of the pharaohs. Your final stop is the stunning Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, theatrically relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from flooding. After a delicious lunch, check into your Aswan hotel.

• Aswan High Dam — Explore the impressive modern engineering feat that controls the Nile's waters.
• Unfinished Obelisk — Witness the partially carved colossal obelisk in its original quarry, a window into ancient craftsmanship.
• Philae Temple — Discover the beautiful temple of Isis, situated on its picturesque island.

An early start with a breakfast box precedes your journey across the desert to Abu Simbel. These two colossal rock-cut temples, carved into the mountainside by Ramses II, are among Egypt's most breathtaking sites. Learn the incredible story of their rescue from the rising waters of Lake Nasser by a UNESCO-led international effort. The main temple is dedicated to Ramses II and the gods Amun, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah, while the smaller temple honors his beloved wife Nefertari and the goddess Hathor. After soaking in the grandeur of these ancient wonders, you'll return to Aswan for lunch and a relaxing evening at your hotel.

• Abu Simbel Temples — Marvel at the monumental rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Nefertari, and learn about their dramatic relocation.

Enjoy breakfast and check out from your Aswan hotel before boarding a first-class train to Luxor, often called the 'world's largest open-air museum.' Upon arrival, your Luxor guide will transfer you to begin exploring the legendary East Bank. Your first stop is the colossal Karnak Temple Complex, an awe-inspiring labyrinth of pylons, courtyards, and hypostyle halls dedicated to the Theban triad. After a delightful lunch, check into your five-star Luxor hotel. As evening descends, experience the magical Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated, offering a different perspective on its grandeur.

• Karnak Temple Complex — Wander through the sprawling complex of Karnak, one of the largest ancient religious sites in the world.
• Luxor Temple — Explore the elegant Luxor Temple, dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship, especially captivating by night.

After breakfast, prepare for an unforgettable journey to Luxor's fabled West Bank. Begin in the mystical Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Seti I, where you'll explore several intricately decorated tombs (three standard tombs included). Continue to the unique Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a stunning example of New Kingdom architecture nestled against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. Next, visit the tranquil Valley of the Queens, home to the burial places of royal consorts, and the ancient artisan's village of Deir el-Medina, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of those who built the royal tombs. Conclude your day with a stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Amenhotep III. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel.

• Valley of the Kings — Descend into the elaborately decorated tombs of the New Kingdom pharaohs.
• Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut — Admire the three-terraced temple of one of Egypt's most powerful female rulers.
• Valley of the Queens — Visit the burial sites of royal wives and children.
• Deir el-Medina (Workers' Village) — Explore the well-preserved village of the tomb builders with fascinating private tombs.
• Colossi of Memnon — See the colossal statues that once guarded Amenhotep III's mortuary temple.

Following breakfast, embark on a profound day trip to explore two exceptionally preserved temples north of Luxor. First, journey to Dendera to visit the exquisite Temple of Hathor, renowned for its astronomical ceilings, vibrant colors, and unique depiction of Cleopatra VII and Caesarion. Continue to Abydos, a site of immense religious significance as a cult center of Osiris. Here, you'll explore the Temple of Seti I, famous for its 'King List' and intricate carvings, considered by many to be some of the finest in Egypt. This pilgrimage offers a deeper understanding of ancient Egyptian religious beliefs and artistic mastery. Enjoy lunch en route. You'll return to your Luxor hotel in the late afternoon.

• Dendera Temple of Hathor — Discover the beautifully preserved Ptolemaic temple, famous for its astrological ceiling and vibrant reliefs.
• Abydos Temple of Seti I — Explore the sacred site of Osiris, home to the Temple of Seti I with its renowned King List and exquisite carvings.

After a final breakfast in Luxor and checking out from your hotel, you'll be transferred to Luxor Airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, your Cairo guide will meet you and commence a captivating tour of the city's historic Islamic and Coptic districts. Ascend to the Saladin Citadel, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Cairo, and visit the stunning Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha within its walls. Next, delve into the enchanting labyrinthine alleys of Old Cairo, exploring the Hanging Church, the Church of St. Sergius, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Conclude your day with an immersive experience at the vibrant Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, where you can browse for unique souvenirs, spices, and artisan crafts. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery before transfer to your Cairo hotel.

• Saladin Citadel & Muhammad Ali Mosque — Explore the medieval fortress and the iconic Alabaster Mosque, offering sweeping city views.
• Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo) — Wander through the historic district, visiting ancient churches and synagogues like the Hanging Church.
• Khan el-Khalili Bazaar — Immerse yourself in the bustling historic market, perfect for shopping and observing local life.

After breakfast, delve deeper into Cairo's rich heritage with a visit to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC). This modern museum is home to the spectacular Royal Mummies Hall, where you can come face-to-face with the pharaohs and queens themselves. Next, embark on a stroll down Al-Muizz Street, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Islamic Cairo, famed for its beautifully preserved medieval Islamic architecture, including mosques, madrasas, and grand gateways. The afternoon is dedicated to revisiting any sites you wished for more time or exploring areas of personal interest. Enjoy a final celebratory lunch before returning to your hotel for your last night in Egypt.

• National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) — Visit the modern museum housing the Royal Mummies Hall and other significant artifacts.
• Al-Muizz Street — Stroll along the historic street in Islamic Cairo, admiring exquisite medieval architecture.

Enjoy your final Egyptian breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some leisure time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxation. Your Travel Joy Egypt representative will then ensure a smooth transfer to Cairo International Airport (CAI) for your departure, carrying with you memories of an extraordinary journey through the land of pharaohs.

• Cairo International Airport (CAI) — Private transfer for your international departure.