Pyramids, Nile Cruise & Lake Nasser Cruise: 12-Day Double River Expedition

Your adventure begins at Sakkara, the ancient necropolis that holds the title of the first pyramid complex ever built in Egypt. Here, you'll encounter the Djoser Pyramid, also known as the Step Pyramid, a revolutionary structure that offers a glimpse into the architectural brilliance of the Old Kingdom. As you explore this wonder, delve deeper into the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian funerary practices.

Next, prepare to be awestruck by the Giza Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, stand before the sole remaining wonder of the ancient world - the Great Pyramids of Giza. Witness the engineering marvels of the pyramids of Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren), and Menkaure (Mykerinos), each a majestic testament to the power and ingenuity of the pharaohs. The Giza Plateau holds more mysteries than just the pyramids. Encounter the enigmatic Sphinx, a mythical creature guarding the plateau, and explore the Valley Temple, a fascinating mortuary temple complex associated with the Pyramid of Khafre. This exploration will leave you with a deeper understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Visits: Sakkara, Step Pyramid of King Djoser, the Teti Pyramid, Great Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Valley Temple

Your journey begins with a leisurely breakfast before your tour guide whisks you to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, a representative will ensure a smooth check-in to your luxurious Nile cruise. First up is a captivating exploration of Karnak Temple, the world's largest ancient religious site. Stand in awe beneath the hypostyle hall, a breathtaking space famous for its colossal granite columns – an iconic landmark of Egypt. Take your time to delve into the vast complex, each section whispering stories of pharaohs past.

Next, journey to Luxor Temple, a majestic structure built by Amenhotep III and Ramses II for grand rituals and festivals dedicated to the mighty God Amun. Explore its intricate details and imagine the vibrant ceremonies held within its walls. In the evening, consider embarking on an unforgettable optional excursion – the captivating Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple. Witness history come alive as dazzling lights and a captivating narration illuminate the complex, transporting you back to the glorious Pharaonic era. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on Luxor's rich history. After your explorations, return to your Nile cruise and unwind in comfort, ready for the next day's adventures.

Overnight aboard your Nile cruise in Luxor
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visits: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Optional night visit to the Karnak and Luxor Temples Sound and Light Show

Your Nile cruise sets the scene for a captivating day trip as you savor a delicious breakfast on board. Embark on a journey across the Nile River to Luxor's West Bank, a legendary city known as Ancient Thebes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most significant archaeological areas globally. Stand in awe before the colossal statues of Amenhotep III, also known as the Colossi of Memnon. These towering figures have guarded the Theban necropolis for millennia, their weathered features hinting at tales from a bygone era.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the magnificent Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahri. This impressive structure, built directly into a high cliff face, boasts a series of colonnades and terraces. Explore its intricate carvings, depicting the Queen's legendary expedition to the mysterious land of Punt. Journey deeper into the heart of the Theban necropolis – the Valley of the Kings. Explore a selection of the beautifully decorated rock-cut tombs. Many showcase vibrant colors and breathtaking details depicting deities and scenes from the Egyptian Book of the Underworld.

Important Note: To preserve these treasures, the Egyptian government rotates access to specific tombs throughout the year. Therefore, the three tombs you visit will be confirmed upon arrival. Most visited tombs offer well-maintained walkways, electric lighting, and protective glass for the internal wall art. After your explorations, unwind as your Nile cruise sails towards Edfu, passing through the Esna Lock. Enjoy a delightful dinner onboard as you soak in the serenity of the Nile River.

Please note: Entrance fees to the tombs of King Tutankhamun and Ramses VI are not included in the base price.

Overnight aboard your Nile cruise in Edfu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visits: Colossi of Memnon, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Valley of the Kings

Your Nile cruise sets sail from Aswan, with a delicious breakfast on board to fuel your exploration. As you cruise down the scenic Nile River, witness the beauty of Egypt's natural landscape.

Your first stop is the unique Kom Ombo Temple. Unlike others, this structure is dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and Horus, the falcon-headed god of sky. Explore the fascinating layout, reflecting the temple's dual purpose. Kom Ombo also offers a rare glimpse into ancient medicine. Look for depictions of surgical instruments, hinting at the advanced medical practices of Ancient Egypt. Imagine skilled physicians wielding these tools thousands of years ago.

After your exploration, return to your Nile cruise and enjoy a relaxing afternoon sail down the Nile. Take in the breathtaking scenery as you approach your next destination, the magnificent Ptolemaic Temple of Horus at Edfu. This remarkably well-preserved structure stands as the most complete Egyptian temple. Marvel at the towering entrance flanked by statues of Horus. Step inside to discover a network of grand halls, chambers, and chapels. Keen observers may even spot inscriptions detailing the titles of books once housed within the temple library.

After a day filled with awe-inspiring discoveries, return to your luxurious Nile cruise for a delightful dinner. Enjoy afternoon tea served on the sundeck as you sail comfortably back towards Aswan.

Overnight aboard your Nile cruise in Aswan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visits: Kom Ombo Temple, Temple of Horus at Edfu

Your Nile cruise in Aswan sets the scene for a day of discovery. After a delicious breakfast on board, you'll embark on a captivating journey with your expert guide. First up is the Unfinished Obelisk, still lying within the granite quarries that supplied ancient Egypt's monumental structures. Imagine the grandeur it would have possessed – the largest piece of stone ever shaped! Unfortunately, a discovered crack led to its abandonment.

Next, a scenic boat trip takes you to Agilkia Island, home to the magnificent Philae Temple. This Nubian treasure is one of the temples painstakingly relocated before the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Step back in time as you explore Philae's grandeur. Marvel at its long colonnades, towering structures, and captivating reliefs. These include some of the last surviving hieroglyphic and demotic inscriptions in all of Egypt, offering a glimpse into the ancient world.

After a day filled with awe-inspiring discoveries, return to your luxurious Nile cruise. Enjoy a delightful lunch, indulge in afternoon tea on the sundeck, and savor a delicious dinner as you unwind. The remainder of the evening is yours to explore Aswan at your leisure.

Overnight aboard your Nile cruise in Aswan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visits: Unfinished Obelisk, Philae Temple, Aswan City

Your Nile cruise serves as the launchpad for your Abu Simbel adventure. After a delicious breakfast on board, disembark and choose your travel option. Land Transfer (Included): Experience the Egyptian landscape firsthand with a convenient group transfer to Abu Simbel, taking approximately 3.5 hours or upgrade to flight from Aswan (Subject to Availability). Upgrade to a flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel upon request.

Upon arrival in Abu Simbel, you'll board your luxurious 5-star Lake Nasser cruise. Settle into your comfortable cabin and savor a delicious lunch as you prepare to be whisked away on a scenic voyage. Prepare to be awestruck by the colossal twin temples of Abu Simbel, carved directly into the mountainside during the reign of Ramses II. Explore these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, marveling at their architectural grandeur and the stories etched in stone.

Overnight onboard the Lake Nasser Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visits: Abu Simbel

Your Nile cruise sets sail towards Kasr Ibrim, a captivating ancient city. Enjoy a delicious breakfast on board as the scenery unfolds.

While sailing, keep your eyes peeled for the impressive Kasr Ibrim Fortress. This historic structure, visible from the sundeck, offers a glimpse into the region's rich past. Your next stop is the charming village of Amada. Disembark and prepare to be mesmerized by the Temple of Amada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the deities Amun, Re-Horakhty, and Hathor. But Amada's wonders extend beyond the main temple. Explore the nearby Ed Deir, a smaller structure containing fascinating religious inscriptions. Additionally, visit the Tomb of Pennut, offering a unique window into the life of a Nubian noblewoman.

After a morning filled with historical discoveries, return to your comfortable cruise ship and enjoy a delicious lunch as you sail towards Wadi El Seboua. As you cruise towards your next destination, take some time to relax on the sundeck or indulge in the onboard amenities. In the evening, unwind and savor a delightful dinner served onboard.

Overnight on board the Lake Nasser Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visits: Kasr Ibrim Fortress, Temple of Amada, Ed Deir, the Tomb of Pennut

After a delicious breakfast onboard your Nile cruise, prepare to be captivated by the ancient city of Wadi El Seboua. Explore its fascinating temples dedicated to the deities Amun, Re-Horakhty, and Hathor, offering a glimpse into Nubia's rich history.
(Optional Camel Ride Available) After exploring Wadi El Seboua, embark on a unique journey to the nearby temples of El Dakka and Mehraka. Choose between a traditional camel ride, offering a truly authentic experience, or a scenic walk through the desert landscape. Both options provide a memorable way to traverse the sands and discover these hidden gems.

Marvel at the architectural beauty of El Dakka, a temple dedicated to the god Thoth. Next, explore Mehraka, a smaller temple known for its captivating reliefs depicting scenes from daily life and offerings to the gods. After a day filled with exploration, return to your comfortable Nile cruise and set sail towards Aswan. Enjoy a delicious dinner onboard as you reflect on the day's adventures.

Overnight on board the Lake Nasser Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visits: Wadi El Seboua, El Dakka and Mehraka

Your Lake Nasser cruise serves up a delicious breakfast before you disembark to explore the captivating treasures of Nubia. First up is the majestic Kalabsha Temple, dedicated to the Nubian god Mandulis. Explore its intricate carvings and grand halls, offering a glimpse into the region's unique culture and deities.

Next, embark on a short journey to Beit el-Wali, an ancient site featuring the remarkable Kiosk of Kertassi. This beautifully preserved structure pays homage to the goddess Hathor, known for her roles in love, beauty, and music. Marvel at its Nubian-style architecture and intricate details. After a morning steeped in history, it's time to bid farewell to Nubia. A comfortable air-conditioned vehicle will transfer you directly to Aswan Airport for your onward flight back to Cairo.

Overnight at the hotel in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast
Visits: Kalabsha Temple, Kiosk of Kertassi

Your last day in Cairo kicks off with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. Fueled and ready to explore, you'll be whisked away by your guide to delve into the city's rich tapestry of history and culture.

First stop: the world-renowned Egyptian Museum. This architectural gem, designed in the neoclassical style by French architect Marcel Dourgnon, houses a mind-boggling collection of over 120,000 artifacts. Travel through time as you explore treasures spanning the predynastic era all the way to the Greco-Roman period. Here, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for ancient Egyptian civilization, from their artistic expressions and architectural marvels to the fascinating practice of mummification.

Next, you'll journey into Cairo's vibrant Christian heritage. Prepare to be awestruck by the Hanging Church (or Suspended Church), a remarkable basilica named for its unique location atop the old Roman fortress gate. This church played a pivotal role as the center of the Christian Church of Egypt. If time allows, you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Khan El Khalili, Cairo's oldest bazaar. Lose yourself in a labyrinth of stalls overflowing with spices, textiles, handicrafts, and treasures, offering a quintessential Egyptian shopping experience.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Relax at a local cafe, wander through charming neighborhoods, or simply soak up the city's unique energy before your departure.

Overnight in Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Visits: Egyptian Museum, Coptic Cairo, Hanging Church, Basilica Church, Khan El Khalili

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your Cairo hotel as you savor your last moments in this captivating city. A comfortable air-conditioned vehicle will then whisk you to Cairo International Airport (CAI) for your departing flight home.
To ensure a smooth departure, we recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight. This allows ample time for checking in, security procedures, and customs.

Meals: Breakfast

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