Egypt Pyramids, Palaces & Red Sea Adventure

Upon your arrival in Cairo, a Travel Joy Egypt representative will warmly greet you, assist with your airport procedures, and chauffeur you to your hotel for check-in and some relaxation. As evening descends, prepare for an enchanting journey to the Giza Plateau for the iconic Sound and Light Show, where the stories of ancient Egypt unfold against the backdrop of the illuminated pyramids. A delightful dinner in Cairo concludes your first day.

• Cairo International Airport — Arrival and VIP assistance.
• Giza Plateau — Witness the captivating Sound and Light Show.
• Local Cairo Restaurant — Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before meeting your expert Egyptologist guide. Your adventure starts at the timeless Giza Pyramids Plateau, where you'll stand in awe of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the last remaining Ancient Wonder. Marvel at the enigmatic Great Sphinx, guardian of the plateau, and explore the Valley Temple, central to pharaonic mummification rituals. Next, immerse yourself in millennia of history at the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a state-of-the-art facility showcasing countless treasures, including the full Tutankhamun collection. A delightful lunch at a restaurant offering pyramid or Nile views will refresh you before heading to Saqqara. Here, discover the groundbreaking Step Pyramid of Djoser, humanity's first large-scale stone building. Return to your Cairo hotel for the evening.

• Giza Pyramids Plateau — Explore the Great Pyramids, Sphinx, and Valley Temple.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Discover Egypt's vast archaeological treasures.
• Pyramid/Nile View Restaurant — Enjoy a scenic lunch.
• Saqqara — Visit the Djoser Step Pyramid complex.

After breakfast, delve deeper into Cairo's rich heritage with your guide. Begin at the renowned Egyptian Museum, home to an unparalleled collection of ancient artifacts. Continue to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), offering a comprehensive journey through Egypt's entire history, including the Royal Mummies Hall. Savor lunch at a local restaurant before exploring Old Cairo. Discover the serene Hanging Church, an ancient Coptic landmark, and the historic Amr Ibn Al Aas Mosque, the first mosque constructed in Africa. Witness the magical Ben Ezra Synagogue and wander through the historic Al Muizz street, culminating in a vibrant shopping experience at the legendary Khan El Khalili Bazaar. In the late afternoon, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your flight to the Red Sea paradise of Sharm El Sheikh. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in and dinner.

• The Egyptian Museum — Explore ancient Egyptian antiquities.
• National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) — Journey through Egypt's historical timeline.
• Local Cairo Restaurant — Authentic Egyptian lunch.
• The Hanging Church — Visit this historic Coptic church.
• Amr Ibn Al Aas Mosque — Discover Africa's oldest mosque.
• Ben Ezra Synagogue — See this ancient Jewish temple.
• Al Muizz Street — Stroll down Cairo's historic thoroughfare.
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar — Experience the famous marketplace.
• Cairo Airport (CAI) — Flight to Sharm El Sheikh (SSH).
• Sharm El Sheikh Hotel — Check-in and relax.

Following breakfast, prepare for an exhilarating day! Your snorkeling instructor will guide you to the Red Sea, renowned for its pristine waters and breathtaking underwater ecosystems. Immerse yourself in the vibrant marine life, swimming alongside colorful fish and spectacular coral reefs. Enjoy lunch and refreshments during your excursion. Return to your Sharm El Sheikh hotel for dinner and overnight.

• Red Sea Snorkeling Site — Discover underwater wonders with an instructor.

Today, venture into the captivating landscapes of the Southern Sinai Desert on a thrilling 'Super Safari.' Explore the rugged beauty of the desert, experiencing the tranquility and dramatic scenery unique to this region. Witness the majestic Mount Sinai from afar, soaking in the natural allure of this sacred land. Lunch and dinner are included during your adventure. Return to your Sharm El Sheikh hotel for the evening.

• Sinai Desert — Experience a thrilling desert 'Super Safari'.
• Mount Sinai — View this iconic mountain from the desert.

Enjoy a full day at your leisure in Sharm El Sheikh. Take advantage of your hotel's amenities, relax by the pool, or simply unwind on the beautiful Red Sea beaches. This day is yours to enjoy at your own pace, perfecting your tan or simply soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere. All meals and soft drinks are provided.

• Sharm El Sheikh — Free day to relax and enjoy the resort amenities.

Begin your day in the early hours (around 3:30 AM) with a memorable ascent of Mount Sinai, timed perfectly to witness a truly spectacular sunrise from its summit, a truly spiritual experience. Afterward, descend the mountain to reach Saint Catherine's Monastery, nestled at its base. Founded in the 6th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest continuously operating Christian monasteries in the world, home to invaluable ancient manuscripts and a profound sense of history. Explore its hallowed grounds before returning to Sharm El Sheikh for a well-deserved rest. All meals and soft drinks are included.

• Mount Sinai — Ascend for a spectacular sunrise.
• Saint Catherine's Monastery — Explore this ancient monastic complex.

After breakfast and check-out from your Sharm El Sheikh hotel, you'll transfer to the airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, you'll be taken to your Cairo hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, dive into the architectural wonders of Islamic Cairo. Ascend to the Salah El Din Citadel, a medieval fortress that stood as Egypt's seat of power for centuries, offering sweeping views of the city. Within its walls, admire the exquisite Mohamed Ali Mosque, a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Enjoy lunch, then continue your exploration to the grand Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan and the elegant Al Rifai Mosque, both showcasing stunning examples of Mamluk-era design. Conclude your day back at your Cairo hotel.

• Sharm El Sheikh Airport (SSH) — Fly back to Cairo (CAI).
• Cairo Hotel — Check-in.
• Salah El Din Citadel — Visit the historic fortress.
• Mohamed Ali Mosque — Explore the Ottoman-style mosque.
• Sultan Hassan Mosque-Madrassa — Admire Mamluk architecture.
• Al Rifai Mosque — Discover this ornate mosque.

After breakfast in Cairo, embark on a captivating full-day excursion to the coastal city of Alexandria with your private guide. Begin your exploration at the fascinating Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a unique blend of pharaonic, Greek, and Roman funerary art. Next, stand before Pompey's Pillar, a majestic Roman triumphal column. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean. Continue to the impressive Qaitbay Citadel, a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. Conclude your day with a visit to the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a grand revival of the ancient library. Check into your Alexandria hotel for the night.

• Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa — Explore unique underground tombs.
• Pompey's Pillar — See the Roman victory column.
• Seaview Restaurant, Alexandria — Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch.
• Qaitbay Citadel — Visit the historic coastal fortress.
• Bibliotheca Alexandrina — Tour the modern library and cultural complex.

Savor breakfast at your Alexandria hotel before continuing your exploration of the city. Visit the revered Morsi Abu Abbas Mosque, a beautiful and historic religious site. Next, discover the majestic Saint Mark Orthodox Cathedral, the traditional seat of the Patriarch of Alexandria. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the enchanting Montaza Royal Gardens, a sprawling park with stunning palace views and rare flora. Conclude your Alexandria visit with a glimpse of the Alexander the Great statue. In the afternoon, you'll be transferred back to your Cairo hotel for your final night.

• Morsi Abu Abbas Mosque — Visit a beautiful and historic mosque.
• Saint Mark Orthodox Cathedral — Explore the historic Christian landmark.
• Local Restaurant, Alexandria — Enjoy lunch.
• Montaza Royal Gardens — Stroll through royal gardens.
• Alexander the Great Statue — See the famous statue.
• Cairo Hotel — Check-in for your final night.

After enjoying breakfast, embark on a day dedicated to exploring Cairo's magnificent royal residences. Your journey begins at the splendid Mohamed Ali Palace in Manial, a grand embodiment of 19th-century luxury, showcasing intricate designs and beautiful gardens. Next, immerse yourself in the rich history and opulent interiors of Abdeen Palace, once the official residence of Egypt's monarchs. Finally, marvel at the distinctive and somewhat mysterious architecture of the Baron Empain Palace, an Indian-inspired villa with a fascinating past. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a premium restaurant. Return to your Cairo hotel for your last overnight stay.

• Mohamed Ali Palace (Manial) — Explore this stunning royal residence.
• Abdeen Palace Museum — Visit the former royal palace.
• Baron Empain Palace — Admire its unique architectural style.
• Premium Cairo Restaurant — Enjoy a farewell dinner.

After a final delicious breakfast at your hotel, a Travel Joy Egypt representative will assist you with check-out and provide a comfortable transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departing flight, laden with unforgettable memories of Egypt's pyramids, palaces, and Red Sea beauty.

• Cairo International Airport — Assisted transfer for your departure.