Cairo, Nile & Abu Simbel Sun Festival

A professionally curated 10 days experience in Cairo, Nile & Abu Simbel, rewritten for international travellers who value clear logistics, strong sightseeing content and a polished local experience. The programme is positioned as an Amarco product for European-facing sales, with practical pacing and a focus on the destination’s most compelling highlights.

Overview

Overview
Experience the magic of the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, a once-in-a-lifetime event that occurs only twice a year. Witness the sun's rays illuminate the inner sanctum of the Ramses II temple in a breathtaking display of celestial alignment. Immerse yourself in the vibrant capital, exploring iconic landmarks like the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. Cruise along the legendary Nile River, discovering the treasures of Luxor and Aswan. Visit the Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut's Temple, Karnak Temple, and the breathtaking Philae Temple. Marvel at the grandeur of the Abu Simbel temples, including the Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Nefertari. Be captivated by the awe-inspiring Sun Festival, a celestial spectacle that has fascinated travelers for centuries. Indulge in luxurious accommodations, savor delicious cuisine, and enjoy expert guided tours. This comprehensive itinerary offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

15 Feb: Arrive Cairo ‘Welcome to Egypt’

Your Egyptian adventure begins upon landing at Cairo International Airport, where our dedicated AMARCO Tours representative will warmly welcome you with a personalized sign. Relax and enjoy a comfortable air-conditioned transfer to your hotel, ensuring a seamless start to your unforgettable journey.
Overnight in Cairo

16 Feb: Pyramids and Cairo Sightseeing

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your Cairo hotel before embarking on an unforgettable journey through time. Meet your knowledgeable Egyptologist guide and head to the iconic Giza Plateau. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chefren, and Mykerinus, standing as testaments to ancient engineering. Capture the magic of the legendary Sphinx, a colossal statue guarding these magnificent structures. Delve deeper into the mysteries of the past with a visit to the Valley Temple, facing the enigmatic Sphinx. Optional: Savor the flavors of Egypt with a lunch at a local restaurant renowned for its authentic cuisine. Continue your exploration at the world-famous Egyptian Museum, home to an unparalleled collection of ancient artifacts. Immerse yourself in the treasures of the golden boy, Tutankhamun, in the dedicated treasure room. Optional: Immerse yourself in Cairo's rich history with visits to Coptic Cairo, featuring the iconic Hanging Church and the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue. Then, wander through the vibrant streets of Islamic Cairo, exploring the bustling old bazaar and soaking up the local atmosphere. Return to your hotel, enriched by the day's incredible experiences.
Overnight in Cairo

17 Feb: Fly Cairo to Luxor – Dahabiya Rois

Start your unforgettable Nile River journey with a delicious breakfast at your Cairo hotel. After check-out, relax with a seamless airport transfer to catch your flight to the historic city of Luxor. Upon arrival, step aboard the opulent 5-star Dahabiya Rois for a week of pure indulgence. Drift along the Nile River in unparalleled luxury, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Savor a delightful lunch before embarking on an afternoon exploration of ancient wonders. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Karnak Temple complex, home to the colossal Hypostyle Hall with its 137 towering columns. Continue your journey to the majestic Luxor Temple, a testament to the power and artistry of the 28th Dynasty. As the sun sets, relax on the deck of your Dahabiya, taking in the serene beauty of the Nile.
Overnight moored on the banks of the Nile in Luxor

18 Feb: Dahabiya Rois – Luxor Sightseeing

Embark on a captivating journey to the West Bank after a delicious breakfast. Explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs found their eternal resting place. Walk in the footsteps of Howard Carter, who made the groundbreaking discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922. Continue your exploration to the Valley of the Queens, where the wives and children of pharaohs were laid to rest. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Medinet Habu Temple, a beautifully preserved complex showcasing intricate carvings and hieroglyphs. Stand in awe before the iconic Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Amenhotep III. As the day progresses, relax on board your Dahabiya as you sail towards the charming town of Esna.
Overnight near by Esna

19 Feb: Dahabiya Rois – Sailing to Edfu Temple

Wake up to the gentle rhythm of the Nile and enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on a journey to Edfu. Explore the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Horus, one of the most stunning examples of ancient Egyptian architecture. Immerse yourself in the intricate carvings and hieroglyphs that adorn its walls, offering fascinating insights into the mythology and daily life of the ancient Egyptians. As the day comes to a close, relax on the deck of your Dahabiya, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of a Nile island.
Overnight moored beside a Nile island

20 Feb: Dahabiya Rois – Sailing to Kom Ombo Temple

Today, your Nile cruise takes you to the enchanting town of Kom Ombo. Immerse yourself in the mysteries of ancient Egypt as you explore the unique double temple dedicated to two powerful deities: Sobek, the crocodile god associated with fertility and creation, and Horus, the falcon-headed god representing the morning sun. Marvel at the architectural intricacies and rich symbolism of this extraordinary site.
Overnight moored beside a Nile island

21 Feb: Dahabiya Rois – Aswan – Road to Abu Simbel

Relax and savor the journey as your Dahabiya glides towards Aswan. Upon arrival, discover the enchanting Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and dinner on board your luxurious vessel. Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! At 11:00 PM, check out of your Dahabiya and embark on a thrilling night journey to Abu Simbel. Witness the awe-inspiring Sun Festival, a celestial phenomenon that occurs twice a year on October 22 and February 22. Be captivated as the sun's rays illuminate the inner sanctum of the Ramses II temple in a breathtaking display of ancient engineering.

22 Feb: Abu Simbel Sun Festival Day

Witness the extraordinary Sun Festival at the iconic Abu Simbel Temple. On this special day, the sun's rays align perfectly to illuminate the innermost sanctum, casting a divine light on the statues of Amun-Ra, Ramses II, and Ra-Horakhty. In contrast, the statue of Ptah, the god of darkness, remains shrouded in shadow, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of light and shadow. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you enjoy captivating performances by Nubian and Egyptian folklore groups outside the temple. Conclude this unforgettable day with a restful night at your Abu Simbel hotel.
Overnight at your hotel in Abu Simbel.

23 Feb: Fly Abu Simbel to Cairo

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your Abu Simbel hotel before transferring to Abu Simbel Airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative who will assist you through customs and immigration. Relax and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your Cairo hotel.
Overnight in Cairo

24 Feb: Cairo – Fly Back Home

Savor a final Egyptian breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey home. Our representative will transfer you comfortably to Cairo International Airport, ensuring a smooth departure.

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