15-Day Ultimate Egypt: Pyramids, Nile & Red Sea

After a delightful breakfast, your expert Egyptologist guide will accompany you on an immersive journey to Cairo's most iconic sites. Our first stop is the Giza Plateau, home to the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza. Stand before the Great Pyramid of Khufu, a monumental testament to ancient engineering, and wonder at the enigmatic Sphinx, guarding these eternal structures. We'll then explore the Valley Temple, key to the ancient mummification rituals. Next, we visit the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), poised to showcase an unparalleled collection of artifacts, including the full treasures of Tutankhamun. After a delicious lunch overlooking the pyramids or Nile, we continue to Saqqara, where you'll witness the revolutionary Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world's oldest stone structure, designed by the brilliant Imhotep. Finally, we'll transfer you back to your hotel for the evening.

• Giza Pyramids Complex — Explore the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, along with the Great Sphinx and the Valley Temple.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — A comprehensive visit to the world's largest archaeological museum (or the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, depending on GEM's full opening status).
• Saqqara Step Pyramid — Discover the groundbreaking funerary complex of Pharaoh Djoser, the world's first stone building.

Following breakfast this morning, embark on a captivating full-day private tour to Alexandria with your knowledgeable Egyptologist guide. Our first discovery will be the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a unique blend of ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic styles. Next, we'll marvel at Pompey's Pillar, a towering Roman triumphal column. Then, we venture to the Citadel of Qaitbay, an impressive 15th-century fortress built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. Enjoy a delightful seafood lunch, experiencing the flavors of the Mediterranean. Our journey continues with a visit to the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a stunning architectural tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria. As the day concludes, we’ll drive you back to your hotel in Cairo.

• Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa — Explore the multi-level necropolis blending Egyptian and Greco-Roman art.
• Pompey's Pillar — Visit the Roman triumphal column dedicated to Emperor Diocletian.
• Citadel of Qaitbay — Discover the historic fortress on the Mediterranean coast.
• Bibliotheca Alexandrina — Explore the modern library, a homage to Alexandria's ancient center of learning.

After breakfast and checking out from your Cairo hotel, you'll be transferred to Cairo Airport for your domestic flight to Aswan. Upon arrival in Aswan, your Egyptologist guide will meet you to begin exploring this picturesque city. We'll start with a visit to the impressive Aswan High Dam, a monumental engineering feat of the 20th century. Next, discover the Unfinished Obelisk, still embedded in its granite quarry, offering insight into ancient stone-cutting techniques. Your final stop is the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, which was meticulously relocated to Agilkia Island to preserve it from flooding. Afterward, you'll be transferred to embark on your luxurious 5-star Nile cruise ship. Settle into your cabin, enjoy lunch, and later, a delicious dinner onboard.

• Aswan High Dam — Learn about modern Egypt's engineering marvel and its impact on the Nile.
• Unfinished Obelisk — Witness an enormous ancient obelisk still connected to its native rock, providing clues about its creation.
• Philae Temple — Explore the stunning temple complex of Isis, beautifully situated on Agilkia Island after its relocation.

Wake early and enjoy a packed breakfast as we embark on an unforgettable excursion to the colossal temples of Abu Simbel. These magnificent rock-cut temples, carved into the mountainside by Pharaoh Ramses II, are a breathtaking sight. Marvel at the Great Temple, dedicated to Ramses himself and the gods Ra, Amun, and Ptah, and the smaller temple honoring his beloved wife, Queen Nefertari. Learn about their astonishing rescue from the rising waters of Lake Nasser by UNESCO. After soaking in the grandeur of Abu Simbel, we'll return to your cruise ship. Enjoy lunch and dinner as your cruise continues its serene journey along the Nile.

• Abu Simbel Temples — Explore the monumental rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This morning, your Nile cruise will dock at Kom Ombo, where your guide will lead you to the unique Temple of Kom Ombo. This rare 'double temple' is symmetrically dedicated to two distinct deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Observe the fascinating ancient reliefs, including medical instruments carved into the stone. Afterward, we'll continue sailing to Edfu, home to the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Horus. This Ptolemaic temple offers an incredible insight into ancient Egyptian religious practices and mythological battles. Enjoy lunch and dinner on board as your cruise steadily makes its way towards Luxor, arriving late in the evening.

• Kom Ombo Temple — Discover the unique dual temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus.
• Edfu Temple — Visit the best-preserved ancient temple in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon god Horus.

Following breakfast on your cruise, you'll check out and meet your personal Egyptologist guide and private, air-conditioned vehicle. Our focus today is Luxor's magnificent East Bank. We begin with the sprawling Karnak Temple Complex, the largest ancient religious site in the world, a city within a city dedicated to the Theban triad. Wander through its enormous hypostyle hall, obelisks, and sacred lake. After this profound visit, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Luxor for check-in and lunch. Take some time to relax and refresh. In the evening, prepare for another unforgettable experience as we visit the beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple, connecting seamlessly to Karnak via the Avenue of Sphinxes, witnessing its grandeur under the night sky. Afterward, return to your Luxor hotel for the night.

• Karnak Temple Complex — Explore the vast complex of sanctuaries, chapels, pylons, and the Great Hypostyle Hall, a testament to centuries of pharaonic construction.
• Luxor Temple — Experience the beauty of Luxor Temple, especially captivating when lit up in the evening.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a captivating journey to Luxor's West Bank, the ancient 'City of the Dead,' accompanied by your expert guide and private vehicle. Our first stop is the legendary Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of New Kingdom pharaohs, including the famous Tutankhamun. Descend into several richly decorated tombs, marveling at the intricate hieroglyphs and colorful wall paintings. Next, we visit the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a remarkable architectural wonder carved into the cliffs at Deir el-Bahari. Our final stop brings us to the colossal Memnon statues, two immense stone figures of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. After these incredible discoveries, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Luxor. The evening is yours to relax at your hotel.

• Valley of the Kings — Discover the tombs of pharaohs, including King Tutankhamun, and explore their decorated burial chambers.
• Temple of Hatshepsut — Visit the striking terraced mortuary temple of one of Egypt's most powerful female pharaohs.
• Colossi of Memnon — See the two massive stone statues of Amenhotep III, silent guardians of the west bank.

After a leisurely breakfast and hotel check-out, we embark on a scenic private transfer from the historical heart of Luxor to the vibrant Red Sea resort town of Hurghada. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you journey from ancient sites to stunning coastal vistas. Upon arrival, you'll check into your Hurghada hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax by the pool, explore the resort, or take a gentle stroll along the beach, anticipating the Red Sea adventures to come. Dinner will be served at your hotel.

• Transfer Luxor to Hurghada — Enjoy a comfortable private transfer from Luxor to the Red Sea coast.

Today is dedicated to embracing the breathtaking beauty of the Red Sea. After breakfast at your hotel, join a supervised snorkeling excursion. You'll be transported to some of Hurghada's most pristine coral reefs, teeming with an incredible array of colorful fish and diverse marine life. Spend your day swimming in crystal-clear waters, marveling at the underwater world. A delicious lunch will be served onboard, allowing you to relax and soak up the sun. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, with the evening free to enjoy at your leisure. Dinner at your hotel.

• Snorkeling Excursion — Explore vibrant coral reefs and observe diverse marine life in the Red Sea.

Savor another delicious breakfast at your Hurghada hotel. Today is a full day at your leisure to enjoy the resort amenities, relax on the beach, or indulge in optional activities. Perhaps try another water sport, book a spa treatment, or explore Hurghada town. Our team can assist with arranging any additional excursions you might be interested in, such as a desert safari, scuba diving, or a visit to Giftun Island. Lunch and dinner will be provided at your hotel.

• Free Day in Hurghada — Relax, enjoy beach activities, or choose from a variety of optional excursions (e.g., diving, desert safari).

Wake to another beautiful morning in Hurghada. Today is dedicated to pure relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and spend your day entirely at your own pace. Whether it’s lounging by the pool with a good book, taking long walks along the coastline, or simply basking in the warm sunshine, this day is designed for your ultimate comfort and enjoyment before your journey back to Cairo. All meals are provided at your hotel.

• Leisure Day in Hurghada — Unwind and enjoy the amenities of your resort or the beautiful Red Sea beaches.

After breakfast and check-out from your Hurghada hotel, you'll be transferred to Hurghada Airport for your domestic flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo, our representative will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, dive into the bustling atmosphere of Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the historic Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest and most famous markets in the Middle East, perfect for finding unique souvenirs. We'll also visit the Citadel of Salah al-Din and the majestic Mosque of Muhammad Ali, offering panoramic views of Cairo. Enjoy lunch during our explorations. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel for your final evening in Egypt.

• Transfer Hurghada to Cairo — Domestic flight back to Cairo.
• Khan el-Khalili Bazaar — Wander through Cairo's historic and vibrant marketplace.
• Citadel of Salah al-Din & Muhammad Ali Mosque — Explore the medieval fortress and its impressive Ottoman-style mosque, offering city views.

After a final breakfast at your hotel, we continue our dive into Cairo's rich history. Today's focus is on the original Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to an astonishing collection of ancient artifacts, including the golden treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb. (Note: Depending on the Grand Egyptian Museum's full opening, this day might shift to encompass further exploration there if not fully covered on Day 2). Afterward, we'll explore the spiritual heart of Old Cairo, visiting significant Christian and Jewish sites. Discover the Hanging Church, one of the oldest Coptic churches in Egypt, and explore the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Egyptian cuisine. The remainder of your afternoon and evening is free for any last-minute souvenir shopping or simply relaxing at your hotel. Later, perhaps consider an optional farewell dinner.

• Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square) — Explore priceless collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including Tutankhamun's treasures.
• Old Cairo — Discover historic churches and the Ben Ezra Synagogue in Cairo's Coptic, Christian, and Jewish quarter.

After your final breakfast at the hotel, our Travel Joy Egypt representative will assist with your check-out. A private, air-conditioned vehicle will then transfer you comfortably to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you a lifetime of cherished memories from your incredible journey through Egypt.

• Cairo International Airport — Transfer for final departure.