Around Egypt (Cairo/Luxor/Aswan) With Nile Cruise – Code AEPAE 5

Following breakfast, your guide will greet you in your hotel lobby to commence your private tour.

Begin by marveling at the Pyramids of Giza, the last remaining ancient wonders of the world, including Cheops, Mykerinus, and Chephren. Delve into the history of these extraordinary structures, unraveling the enduring mystery of their construction.

From the Giza Plateau, savor the breathtaking panoramic view of the Pyramids rising majestically from the golden sands. This is an opportunity to capture unforgettable memories with photographs.

Before leaving the site, pay homage to the enigmatic Sphinx (aka Abu El Hol in Arabic), the 3,000-year-old Great Sphinx.

Next, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), located near the Giza Pyramids in Egypt, is set to be the largest archaeological museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization. Spanning over 480,000 square meters, it will house a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the complete tomb collection of Tutankhamun, showcased together for the first time. The museum’s modern design, featuring a grand glass facade offering views of the pyramids, aims to blend Egypt’s rich history with contemporary architecture. It serves as a new cultural hub, offering immersive experiences through advanced display techniques and interactive exhibits.

After lunch, embark on the second leg of your journey to the Pyramid of Saqqarah, also known as the Pyramid of Djoser, and conclude your day with a visit to Saqqarah, the vast necropolis of ancient Memphis, which holds the tomb of King Djoser, built over 4,000 years ago. This monumental structure marked a groundbreaking moment in history, as it was the first time a pyramid shape was used to create a tomb.

Finally, we’ll take you back to the hotel for the overnight.

Your journey into the heart of Cairo begins with a meeting at your hotel at 8 AM. You’ll be whisked away on a captivating exploration of both Islamic and Coptic Cairo, diving into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Start your day with a visit to the Hanging Church, a remarkable structure perched above the gate of the old Babylon Fortress. Step inside this sacred edifice and marvel at its 13 pillars, believed to represent Jesus and his 12 apostles, with the darker pillar symbolizing Judas.

Next, journey back in time at the Saint Sergius Church, a 4th-century masterpiece that embodies the early Coptic architectural style. This church holds a special significance, as its crypt is believed to have sheltered Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus Christ during their time in Egypt.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Ben Ezra Synagogue, renowned for its Geniza, a repository where outdated and holy documents containing the name of God were meticulously preserved.

Venture into the Islamic part of the city, where you’ll encounter the Amr Ibn Al-Aas mosque, the first mosque built in Egypt and all of Africa in 641. Legend has it that the mosque was constructed where Amr Ibn Al-Aas had pitched his tent after a dove laid an egg within it before his victory against the Romans.

Step back into the realm of historical power at the Citadel, a formidable fortress built by Sultan Salah Al-Din to defend Cairo against the Crusaders. This majestic structure served as the residence of Egyptian rulers for 700 years and now houses an array of mosques and museums.

As you ascend the Citadel, the Alabaster mosque, with its imposing domes and towering minarets, will captivate your attention. This magnificent Ottoman structure sits majestically atop the fortress, offering a breathtaking panorama of the city.

Nearby, discover the Cave Church, also known as the Monastery of Saint Simon, tucked away in the El-Mokattam hill, a region nicknamed “Garbage City” due to the presence of garbage collectors known as “Zabbaleen.” This monastery boasts the title of the largest church in the Middle East.

Stroll along the enchanting El Muizz Street, a captivating corridor lined with medieval buildings, madrassas (Quran schools), mosques, and traditional houses. Be sure to keep an eye out for the many young Egyptians seeking the perfect selfie opportunity.

As you continue your exploration, pay attention to Bab Zuweila, one of the remaining gates of Cairo’s medieval city. Then, delve into the bustling Khan El Khalili, a 14th-century souk that continues to thrive today. This vibrant marketplace is a treasure trove of spices, gold, soap, handmade souvenirs, and countless other treasures. If you’re looking for the perfect souvenir to take home, Khan El Khalili is the ideal place to find it.

Immerse yourself in the heart of this historical district and savor a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. As your day winds down, find tranquility in El-Azhar Park, a sprawling green oasis nestled amidst the prominent historical sites of Islamic Cairo. From this peaceful haven, contemplate the grand monuments that surround you.

After this captivating journey through time and culture, you’ll be escorted back to your hotel for a restful night’s sleep.

Our representative will pick you up at your location in Luxor, transport you to your cruise ship, and assist you with the check-in process.

After enjoying lunch on board, you’ll embark on a journey to the two magnificent temples on the East Bank of ancient Thebes, beginning with the Karnak Temple. This expansive ancient temple, dedicated to the Theban triad of Amun, Mut, and their son Khonsu, was once connected to Luxor Temple by a grand avenue lined with sphinxes. Over 2,000 years, approximately thirty Pharaohs contributed to its construction, making it a remarkable monument distinguished by its scale, intricate details, and diverse architectural styles.

Conclude your day with a visit to Luxor Temple, where you can bask in the splendor of ancient architecture as the setting sun casts its golden rays upon the structures. Enter the site through the imposing pylon of Ramses II, marveling at his colossal statues and the towering obelisk. This site was once the location of the annual Feast of Opet, a celebration of the union of Mut and Amun and the rebirth of their son, a ceremony that bestowed renewed power upon the Pharaoh over all of Egypt.

Within the temple grounds, you’ll find a Roman chapel and a mosque, both captivating structures nestled amidst the ancient columns.

Enjoy a delightful dinner on your cruise ship and spend a restful night aboard.

Following your breakfast on the cruise ship, embark on an extraordinary journey to the West Bank of Luxor. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Valley of the Kings, a testament to the grandeur of the pharaohs.

Within the valley, you’ll discover 63 tombs carved into the mountainside, including the renowned tomb of King Tutankhamun. Venture into one of these royal tombs and marvel at the vibrant scenes adorning the walls, offering glimpses into the beliefs and burial rituals of the ancient Egyptians. The sheer magnificence of these tombs underscores the prestige and power of the pharaohs.

Next, you’ll encounter the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. As you approach the site, the dramatic cliff face will undeniably capture your attention. However, it’s at the foot of this natural wonder that the true marvel awaits: the temple itself. The external architecture seamlessly blends with the elegant cliff, creating the illusion that the temple has been carved directly into the rock. Inside, you’ll notice that many statues and engravings have suffered facial damage. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the compelling historical reasons behind this.

Finally, your excursion culminates at the Colossi of Memnon. These imposing figures stand tall and proud, gazing towards the Nile River. Once guardians of the grand and opulent Temple of Amenhotep, the largest and most magnificent temple in Egypt, the Colossi stand as silent sentinels.

Return to your ship for lunch, then set sail for Edfu, where you’ll explore its awe-inspiring temple. Enjoy a delectable dinner aboard the cruise ship, and settle in for a restful night.

Following your delicious breakfast aboard the cruise ship, embark on a visit to Edfu. Here, you’ll discover a remarkably well-preserved Ptolemaic Temple dedicated to Horus, the vengeful son of Osiris.

Next, set sail for Kom Ombo and be captivated by the unique “double-temple” of Sobek. This architectural marvel is perfectly symmetrical, with one half devoted to the crocodile god Sobek and the other to the falcon-headed god Horus.

Return to the ship for lunch and continue your journey to Aswan. Enjoy dinner and spend the night comfortably aboard the cruise ship.

Your adventure begins at 4 am when your guide picks you up from your chosen location in Aswan. A comfortable, air-conditioned private car will whisk you away on a three-hour journey to Abu Simbel, situated 290 kilometers south of Aswan.

The two temples you are about to witness stand on the western shore of Lake Nasser, a testament to the ingenuity of preservation. These ancient wonders were originally located elsewhere, but to safeguard them from the rising waters, a monumental task was undertaken. In 1968, the temples were carefully dismantled, relocated to higher ground, and reassembled.

Nubia, with its rich deposits of gold and other treasures, was of paramount importance to the Egyptians. It was here that Pharaoh Ramesses II chose to erect these colossal temples, a testament to his dominance over the Nubian people. Alongside your expert Egyptologist guide, you’ll delve into the captivating history of this site and the legacy of the great pharaoh who commissioned them.

With ample time for capturing memorable photos, your Abu Simbel journey concludes. You’ll then be driven back to Aswan for a serene and traditional felucca boat ride, gliding amidst the enchanting islands of Aswan.

Finally, you’ll be transferred to your awaiting cruise ship in Aswan, ready to embark on the next chapter of your Egyptian adventure.

Following your breakfast, you’ll be checked out of the Nile cruise. Then, embark on a day tour exploring the highlights of Aswan. Take a motorboat ride to the High Dam, a colossal structure that regulates the Nile, enabling year-round agriculture.

Next, visit the Philae Temple on Agilika Island, a significant Nubian site and former center of the worship of Isis. After this Nile adventure, you will be transported to your preferred destination, be it a hotel, the airport, or elsewhere.