Egypt: Pyramids, Temples & the Nile - 10 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female50%
- Male50%
Average age
Start / End
- Cairo
- Cairo
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
23Highlights
- Explore the Pyramids of Giza the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel
- Cruise the Nile on a traditional dahabiya sail boat and experience life along the Nile at a slower pace
- Visit Luxor temple at night
- Enjoy a meal with a local family in Aswan
- Dive into Egypt's fascinating history while looking at artifacts and mummies at the Egyptian Museum.
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Summary
Egypt is a country that sparks the imagination with thoughts of the ancient pyramids and the majestic Nile. On this 10-day adventure, visit all the main archeological sites, while also stopping at smaller lesser know temples along the Nile. Experience the sounds of the river and countryside on a traditional dahabiya sailboat — your home for five unforgettable nights. Connect with a local family over a meal in Aswan and visit the renowned Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Do more than just see Egypt; take part in it and let it stay with you until the end of time.
Map
Itinerary
Days 1-0: Cairo: Welcome to EgyptArrival Day
Famous for pyramids, temples and pharaohs, Egypt is so much more than its monuments and rich history, the deep-rooted culture makes it a very special place to explore. From chaotic Cairo to charming Nile riverbank villages, the people are warm and they sincerely open their hearts to visitors. We welcome you to Egypt, and invite you to be charmed by Egypt's 6000-plus years of living traditions. Arrive to Cairo at any time and transfer to the hotel. Meet your fellow group members at the welcome meeting in the evening and get all the important information about the adventure ahead. Afterwards, head to a local restaurant perched overlooking the Pyramids.
Days 2-1: Giza: The Great Pyramids and the Sphinx
Imagine you are back in time joining the first scientist in documenting the Great Pyramids of Egypt. Set eyes on these impressive structures and try to picture them half-submerged in sand ready to be discovered. While none of this was new to the locals, foreigners were seeing them for the first time, just like you now are. Start the day in Giza, exploring the Great Pyramid site and the Sphinx. Later head to Sakkara, a vast complex of Pyramids and Tombs from the Old Kingdom.
Days 3-2: Luxor: The Great Temples of Egypt
What was once a multi-week journey up the Nile now only takes a few hours to travel from Cairo to Luxor. However the amazement you feel is profound when your eyes first see the great temples of Egypt. You immediately understand why for centuries people have been coming here to explore and observe these incredible monuments. Leave Cairo on an early morning flight to Luxor, then drive north to the temple complex of Dandara. Check in to our very own Nile River vessel called a dahabiya, our home for the next 5 nights, before heading out to explore the temples of Karnak and Luxor, both within the city.
Days 4-3: Luxor: The West Bank & Valley of the Kings
Step back in time as you set off on an early morning journey to explore the tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the temples of the West Bank. Rumours of ancient curses abound here and yet the real true curse is that you can never have enough time to explore each tomb. Rejoin our dahabiya, and set sail like the early explorers, continuing up the Nile. An early start takes us to a local community G for Good project before the heat of the day sets in. Enjoy a home-hosted lunch, then head out to explore the Valley of the Kings. This afternoon, return to our dahabiya and depart up the Nile to Esna.
Days 5-4: Esna to Ramadi: Sailing the Nile
Our sails are up and your first full day of sailing on the Nile is ahead. Get ready to discover incredible sites and enjoy experience only possible on a dahabiya. Sail from Esna to the cliff side tomb complex of El Kab, then continue sailing to the Temple of Edfu. Sail a bit further and we stop for the night and enjoy an Egyptian style barbecue on a remote Island in the middle of the Nile.
Days 6-5: Ramadi to Herdyab Island: People along the Nile
Our journey south continues. Today the Nile meanders along farmlands and small islands that have forever been bathed by rich nutrients, creating fertile land in a narrow green ribbon along the river's banks, surrounded by desert on both sides. Even if living here can be challenging, the people are always welcoming and smile at you when you meet. Explore two places only possible by dahabiya. Stop at Besaw Island, a village in the Nile that has changed very little over time. Then sail up river to Gebal El Silseila and to Kom Ombo. Our day ends as we dock along the shore of Herdyab Island as the sun sets over the Nile valley.
Days 7-6: Herdyab Island to Aswan: Sailing to Philea
The last day sailing the Nile begins as you set sail for Aswan, the furthest South you can go by boat since the dam that formed Lake Nassar was built. As you approach Aswan the river gets busier and the city comes in view. Dotted with small islands, Aswan is our last stop on the Nile. Sail to Aswan. After lunch, take a small local ferry to the other side of the river to explore Philea Temple then head over to a Nubian village and learn about Nubian culture.
Days 8-7: Aswan to Cairo: Visit Abu Simbel
In 1964, the world united around the mission to save the Abu Simbel temple from being submerged forever in the rising waters of Lake Nassar. A global effort was put in place to dismantle and rebuild the temple at a site above the high water mark. That feat of humanity meant that these temples were saved for all of us to enjoy. Transfer to the airport in the early morning for our short flight to Abu Simbel. Visit the temple complex and fly back to Aswan to connect to your flight to Cairo. Make your way to the hotel and enjoy a free evening.
Days 9-8: Cairo: Your OMG day
There is nothing better than ending on a high note and today you will do just that. After having seen the temples, the pyramid and the tombs, today you get to see the great treasures of Egypt housed in The Grand Egyptian Museum. Then discover Cairo on your own terms, with two activity options to choose from for the rest of the day, one focused on the culture and history of Egypt and the other on food. Transfer to The Grand Egyptian Museum for a morning tour then have a choice between two activity options to discover Cairo. Later, return to the hotel for a farewell dinner together along the Nile, with Cairo as our background.
Days 10-9: Cairo: Departure
Your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time today. You may be leaving Egypt behind, but the experiences you have will last forever. Depart at any time, your departure transfer is included.
Prices & Availability
Please select the number of adults and children to see start dates and prices
What's Included
Meals
Breakfasts: 9, Lunches: 7, Dinners: 7Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.Vegetarian options available
Local Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Airport Transfers
Arrival OnlyAn airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Important Notes
1. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.2. EXCURSION RECOMMENDATIONSIf you arrive a day or two early in Cairo and wish to do some excursions, we recommend that you wait until you get to the joining hotel and contact our local staff for more information on available tours and excursions. Tourists are frequently over-charged for excursions bought from vendors on the street or at the airport. 3. TIPPING NOTE:Tipping is a way of life in the Middle East. Locals themselves will usually tip anyone who provides them with services. Due to this expectation, your CEO will collect a Tipping Kitty at the start of the tour. For more details see the Tipping section below. 4. TRAVEL DAYSPlease be aware that there are some long driving days on this tour. You can refer to the detailed trip itinerary for more information on estimated travel times. Please note that any times mentioned are approximations only to give you an idea of the journey lengths and the actual time taken will depend on factors such as public transport timetables and road conditions. A mix of private and public transport is used throughout this trip.5. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIESPlease note all optional activities and entrance fees will need to be paid by card only as per a new change implemented by the ministry of tourism in Egypt.6. RAMADANAccording to the lunar cycle, Ramadan will fall betweenFeb 28th - Mar 29th 2025, and Feb 17th - Mar 19th 2026. Please note that Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world, during which time the followers of Islam should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan. Please wear loose fitting clothes, that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public out of respect for those who can't at that time.7. MONEYUS Dollars that are series 1996 or earlier are not accepted and very difficult to change in regions of East and Southern Africa, as there are a lot of forgeries in circulation. 8. EXTRASLooking to add to your experience? Check out our Extras! Specially designed for travellers with unique interests, Extras are optional add-ons to your G adventures trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Extras must be booked prior to departure, please see details in our optional activities field and ask your sales GCO or travel agent about booking.9. AID AL-ADHADuring your visit to this country, we would like to inform you about an important celebration called Aid Al-Adha. This holiday may impact your travel experience, as most shops and restaurants are closed during the celebration. Some of the historical places we visit might also be closed during this time. There will be a shorter number of staff at the hotels and less crowded streets on the day of the celebration. Aid Al-Adha will fall between Jun. 16th-17th 2024, and Jun. 6th-7th 2025.
Departure Tax
Departure tax is usually included in your air tickets. If you depart Egypt via Nuweiba Port, there is a departure tax of approximately 9 USD.
Packing List
Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended) • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear Note: Please note that you should bring slippers for your time on the Dahabiya as no shoes are permitted to be worn on the boat.
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.It is important to pack clothes for warm to hot days and cool evenings. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.