Cairo & Luxor Christmas & New Year Holiday

After a delightful breakfast, prepare for an awe-inspiring day exploring Egypt's most iconic ancient marvels. Begin at the Giza Plateau, home to the colossal Giza Pyramids, enduring symbols of ancient Egyptian ingenuity. Gaze upon the Great Pyramid of Khufu, a monumental feat of engineering, and stand before the majestic Sphinx, guardian of the plateau for millennia. We'll also visit the Valley Temple, a historically significant site adjacent to the Sphinx. Next, we journey to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a state-of-the-art facility showcasing over 50,000 artifacts, including the complete Tutankhamun collection. Following a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, our exploration continues to Saqqara, where you'll witness the innovative Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered the world's oldest stone building and a precursor to the Giza pyramids. Conclude your day with a comfortable return to your Cairo accommodation.

• Giza Pyramids — Explore the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure.
• The Sphinx — Marvel at the monumental Sphinx and its Valley Temple.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Visit this magnificent new museum, home to the Tutankhamun collection and more.
• Saqqara Step Pyramid — Discover the world's first stone pyramid and its complex.

After breakfast and checking out, immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Old Cairo. Our first stop is the renowned Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, housing an astounding collection of ancient artifacts spanning thousands of years. Following a local lunch, we'll visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), famous for its Royal Mummies Hall, where you'll come face-to-face with Egypt's illustrious pharaohs. Continue your cultural journey with a stroll down Al-Muizz Street, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing exquisite Islamic architecture, before diving into the sensory delights of Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, a bustling marketplace perfect for unique souvenirs. In the afternoon, we'll transfer you to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, a local representative will meet you and transfer you to your Luxor hotel for check-in and overnight.

• The Egyptian Museum — Explore the vast collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
• National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) — View the Royal Mummies and other significant cultural displays.
• Al-Muizz Street — Wander through the historic street dotted with Islamic architecture.
• Khan al-Khalili Bazaar — Experience this famous historic market.
• Cairo to Luxor Flight — Domestic flight between Cairo and Luxor.

Following an early breakfast and hotel check-out, embark on a profound exploration of Luxor, the 'world's greatest open-air museum.' Cross to the West Bank to uncover the mysteries of the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs of the New Kingdom sought eternal rest in elaborately decorated tombs. Our journey continues to the magnificent mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a stunning example of ancient architecture carved into the cliffs. We'll pause at the massive Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues guarding the funerary temple of Amenhotep III. Enjoy a unique lunch experience on a Nile island, including a boat trip on the river. Afterward, we'll visit the East Bank's iconic Karnak Temple Complex, a sprawling sanctuary dedicated to the Theban Triad. As the day concludes, you'll be transferred to Luxor Airport for your return flight to Cairo, checking into your Cairo hotel for your final overnight.

• Valley of the Kings — Discover the burial sites of New Kingdom pharaohs.
• Temple of Queen Hatshepsut — Admire the unique terraced Mortuary Temple of the female pharaoh.
• Colossi of Memnon — See the imposing statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
• Nile River Boat Trip & Lunch — Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Nile with lunch on an island.
• Karnak Temple Complex — Explore the vast and impressive Karnak Temple.
• Luxor to Cairo Flight — Domestic flight returning to Cairo.

After enjoying your final breakfast at the hotel, a Travel Joy Egypt representative will ensure a smooth transfer to Cairo International Airport, assisting with all departure formalities for your onward journey, bringing your memorable Christmas and New Year holiday in Egypt to a close.

• Cairo International Airport (CAI) — Private transfer for final departure assistance.