17-Day Grand Egypt Odyssey: Pyramids to Siwa

Following a delightful breakfast, your expert Egyptologist guide will lead you on an unforgettable journey to the Giza Plateau. Here, you'll marvel at the iconic Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, a testament to ancient engineering. Stand in awe before the mysterious Sphinx, guardian of the plateau, and explore the ancient Valley Temple, crucial for ancient Egyptian funerary rites. Afterward, enjoy a delectable lunch featuring local and international cuisine. The afternoon is dedicated to the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a state-of-the-art facility housing over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete collection of Tutankhamun, providing profound insights into Egypt's 5,000-year history.

• Giza Pyramids Complex — Explore the wonders of Khufu's Pyramid, the Sphinx, and the ancient Valley Temple.
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) — Discover an unparalleled collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including Tutankhamun's treasures.

After breakfast, embark on a cultural exploration of Cairo. Your guide will take you to the esteemed Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to a vast collection of artifacts that chronicle Egypt's ancient past. Continue to the historic Hanging Church, one of Cairo's oldest Coptic Christian churches, renowned for its unique architectural design. Enjoy lunch at a handpicked local restaurant. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant history of Islamic Cairo with a stroll down Al Muizz Street, an open-air museum of ancient mosques and historic buildings. Conclude your day at the lively Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where you can browse for unique souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts amidst its bustling alleyways.

• The Egyptian Museum — A world-renowned museum showcasing priceless artifacts from ancient Egypt (Tahrir location).
• The Hanging Church — A beautiful and historically significant Coptic Orthodox church.
• Al Muizz Street — A historic street in Islamic Cairo, famed for its stunning medieval architecture.
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar — Explore Cairo's vibrant and historic market, perfect for unique souvenirs.

Following breakfast, check out from your Cairo hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight to Aswan, the serene southern jewel of Egypt. Upon arrival, you'll be met by your guide and immediately begin an engaging tour of Aswan's highlights. Visit the monumental Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel, and the Unfinished Obelisk, offering insights into ancient stone-cutting techniques. Conclude your sightseeing at the exquisite Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, beautifully relocated to Agilkia Island. Afterward, transfer to your luxurious Nile cruise ship, where you'll check in, enjoy dinner, and settle in for a peaceful overnight on the river.

• Aswan High Dam — A colossal modern dam that transformed Egypt's agriculture and power.
• Unfinished Obelisk — A fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian quarrying methods in Aswan's granite quarries.
• Philae Temple — A stunning temple dedicated to Isis, dramatically rescued and relocated to Agilkia Island.

An early start with breakfast boxes ensures you reach one of Egypt's most awe-inspiring sites: the Temples of Abu Simbel. This UNESCO World Heritage site features two massive rock-cut temples built by Ramses II, depicting his grandeur and his love for Queen Nefertari. Marvel at the colossal statues and intricate hieroglyphs, a testament to ancient Egyptian architectural and artistic genius. This remarkable site, famously relocated to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, offers an unforgettable journey back in time. Return to your cruise ship for lunch and a relaxing evening.

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

After breakfast on board, your cruise continues its gentle journey down the Nile. Your first stop is the unique Kom Ombo Temple, a double temple dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Observe its symmetrical layout and fascinating reliefs detailing ancient medical instruments. Continue sailing to Edfu, where you'll visit the Temple of Edfu, an exceptionally well-preserved Ptolemaic temple dedicated to the falcon god Horus. Its grand scale and intricate carvings offer an unparalleled window into ancient Egyptian religious practices. Enjoy lunch and dinner on the cruise, soaking in the panoramic Nile views.

• Kom Ombo Temple — A unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus the Elder, showcasing medical inscriptions.
• Edfu Temple — The best-preserved ancient temple in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon god Horus.

After breakfast and checking out from your Nile cruise, your journey continues to Luxor, the 'world's greatest open-air museum.' Your private, air-conditioned vehicle will take you to the East Bank for an immersive tour. Begin with the colossal Karnak Temple Complex, an astonishing testament to Pharaonic worship, showcasing towering columns, obelisks, and statues. After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, proceed to the elegant Luxor Temple, primarily built by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, connected to Karnak by the Avenue of Sphinxes. This temple celebrates kingship and ancient rituals. Afterward, you'll check into your Luxor hotel for dinner and overnight rest.

• Karnak Temple Complex — Explore this sprawling ancient city of temples dedicated to the Theban Triad.
• Luxor Temple — Admire the elegant temple, illuminated beautifully at night, a testament to New Kingdom power.

After breakfast, prepare for an profound exploration of Luxor's West Bank, once the 'City of the Dead.' Your guide will lead you to the famed Valley of the Kings, the hidden burial site for pharaohs of the New Kingdom, including Tutankhamun. Next, marvel at the imposing Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Amenhotep III. Conclude your West Bank adventure at the striking Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a terraced masterpiece carved into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. Following lunch, you'll embark on a scenic transfer to Hurghada, Egypt's premier Red Sea resort, checking into your hotel upon arrival.

• Valley of the Kings — Descend into the elaborate tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs.
• Colossi of Memnon — Massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
• Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut — An impressive terraced temple dedicated to Egypt's powerful female pharaoh.
• Scenic Transfer to Hurghada — Enjoy the drive from Luxor to the Red Sea coast.

Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure in Hurghada. Relax on the sun-drenched beaches, take a refreshing dip in the Red Sea's crystal-clear waters, or indulge in optional activities such as snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs. Hurghada offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

• Hurghada — Full day at leisure to relax, swim, or partake in optional Red Sea activities.

Another day dedicated to the stunning Red Sea. You can choose to simply unwind by the pool, enjoy the hotel's amenities, or partake in an exciting optional excursion. Perhaps a boat trip to Giftun Island for snorkeling, a desert safari, or further exploration of Hurghada's marine world. The Red Sea's warm waters and abundant marine life promise a memorable experience.

• Hurghada — Another day to relax by the Red Sea or enjoy optional water sports and excursions.

After a final breakfast in Hurghada, you'll check out from your hotel and be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, a private air-conditioned vehicle will take you to your hotel for check-in. The afternoon offers the chance for further exploration of Cairo, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot or discovering a new corner of the city at your leisure. Enjoy dinner on your own, choosing from Cairo's diverse culinary offerings.

• Flight Hurghada to Cairo — Transfer back to the capital city.
• Cairo — Check into your hotel, with free time to explore.

Today, after breakfast, depart Cairo by private, air-conditioned vehicle for a scenic drive to Alexandria, Egypt's historic coastal city. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you on a captivating tour. Visit the impressive Qaitbay Citadel, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. Explore the intriguing Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a unique blend of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian tomb architecture. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The afternoon brings you to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern architectural marvel honoring the ancient Library of Alexandria. Check into your Alexandria hotel for the night.

• Qaitbay Citadel — Explore the historic fortress built on the ruins of the Lighthouse of Alexandria.
• Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa — Descend into these fascinating Roman burial chambers, showcasing unique artistry.
• Bibliotheca Alexandrina — Visit the stunning modern library, a tribute to Alexandria's intellectual past.

After breakfast, continue your exploration of Alexandria. Visit Pompey's Pillar, a grand Roman triumph column, and explore the surrounding archaeological site which includes the Serapeum. Next, enjoy a scenic drive along the corniche, admiring the city's coastal charm. After lunch in Alexandria, you'll begin your comfortable return journey to Cairo by private vehicle. Check back into your Cairo hotel, with the evening free for your enjoyment, perhaps seeking out some local street food or dining at a fine restaurant.

• Pompey's Pillar — Stand before this impressive Roman column and the associated archaeological site.
• Alexandria Corniche — Enjoy a scenic drive along the picturesque Mediterranean coastline.
• Transfer back to Cairo — Comfortable private transfer from Alexandria to Cairo.

An early start takes you on an incredible journey into Egypt's Western Desert. After breakfast, meet your private driver for the long but scenic drive to the remote and enchanting Siwa Oasis. Located deep in the Sahara, Siwa offers a unique blend of Berber culture, stunning desert landscapes, and ancient sites. Upon arrival, check into your charming Siwan lodge and enjoy dinner amidst the tranquility of the oasis.

• Scenic Drive to Siwa Oasis — Travel through the Western Desert to the remote and picturesque Siwa Oasis.

Today is dedicated to uncovering the unique treasures of Siwa Oasis. After breakfast, visit the historical Temple of Amun, a significant oracle site in ancient times. Next, refresh yourself at Ain Cleopatra, a natural spring perfect for a relaxing dip. Explore the fascinating ruins of the Old Town of Siwa, a former fortress built of 'karshef' (mud and salt bricks) offering panoramic views. Wander through the atmospheric Village of Old Shali, another impressive ruined mud-brick settlement. Enjoy lunch at a local Siwan restaurant, savoring regional flavors. The afternoon might include a thrilling desert safari (optional) or more time to simply absorb the oasis's serene beauty.

• Temple of Amun — Explore the ancient oracle temple, revered in antiquity.
• Ain Cleopatra — Relax and swim in this natural spring.
• Old Town of Siwa — Discover the historic mud-brick citadel and its panoramic views.
• Village of Old Shali — Wander through the captivating ruins of an ancient Siwan settlement.

Enjoy a final breakfast in the tranquil setting of Siwa Oasis. Today, we begin our journey back to Cairo. It's another long but rewarding drive through the Western Desert, reflecting on the unique experiences of Siwa. Upon arrival back in Cairo, check into your hotel. The evening is at your leisure, perhaps for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

• Scenic Drive Siwa to Cairo — Journey back across the Western Desert to the capital.
• Cairo — Check into your hotel for your final night in Egypt.

After enjoying your final breakfast in Cairo, a Travel Joy representative will provide a private, air-conditioned transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure, bringing your unforgettable 17-day Egyptian odyssey to a close. We trust you'll depart with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for Egypt's enduring magic.

• Cairo International Airport — Private transfer for your onward flight.