Ancient Capitals(Cairo – Alexandria – Luxor) – Code PCAC1

Following breakfast, your guide will meet you at the lobby of your Cairo hotel. Your private tour begins with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza, the last remaining ancient wonder of the world. Explore the majestic structures of Cheops, Mykerinus, and Chephren, delving into the fascinating history and enduring mystery of their construction. From the Plateau, capture stunning panoramic views of the Pyramids rising from the golden sands of Giza.

Before leaving the site, greet the enigmatic Great Sphinx, a 3,000-year-old marvel.

Next, your journey takes you to the Pyramid of Saqqara, also known as the Pyramid of Djoser. Located in the vast necropolis of ancient Memphis, this site is where King Djoser constructed his tomb over 4,000 years ago. It was the first time in history that the pyramidal shape was used for a tomb, marking a significant milestone in ancient architecture.

After lunch, you’ll visit the Egyptian Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts, including royal mummies and the breathtaking treasure of King Tutankhamun.

Finally, we’ll return to the hotel for the night.

Step back in time by exploring Cairo’s medieval district. Begin your day with a remarkable tour of Ottoman architecture, starting with the Alabaster Mosque. Perched majestically atop the El Mokattam hill, this mosque boasts stunning, overlapping domes and impressive minarets. Built by Muhammad Ali Pasha between 1830 and 1848 as a tribute to his eldest son, who sadly passed away in 1816, the Alabaster Mosque is primarily constructed from limestone, possibly sourced from the Pyramids of Giza.

Next, visit the Sultan Hassan Mosque, an Islamic complex encompassing a mosque and a madrassa where the four schools of Islamic thought were once taught.

Continue to the Coptic section of the city and explore Ben Ezra Synagogue. Known for its Geniza, this temple is believed to have been built on the site where Moses was discovered by Pharaoh’s daughter as an infant.

Admire the Hanging Church, suspended above the gate of the ancient Babylon Fortress. Step inside this sacred edifice and observe the 13 pillars supporting the entire nave. These pillars are believed to symbolize Jesus and his 12 apostles, with the darker pillar representing Judas.

Stroll along El Moez Street, taking in the beautiful buildings: madrassas (Koran schools), mosques, and traditional houses. Consider visiting Bayt El Suheymi, one of these captivating structures.

Afterward, wander through the bustling streets of Khan El Khalili. Built in the 14th century, this souk remains the first choice for locals seeking gold. Spices, gold, soap, handmade souvenirs – you’ll find almost everything here. If one merchant can’t provide what you need, they’ll happily direct you to a seller who can. Looking for a souvenir to take home? Khan El Khalili is the perfect place!

Finally, you will be escorted back to your hotel for a restful overnight stay.

Following your breakfast, relax in an air-conditioned vehicle en route to Alexandria. Immerse yourself in the mysteries of the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a Roman necropolis blending Egyptian, Greek, and Roman funerary artistry.

Once hailed as one of the seven wonders of the medieval world, this site continues to captivate visitors with its intricate tombs, statues, and archaeological treasures. Nearby, stand in awe of the imposing Pompey Pillar. Despite its name, this pillar has no connection to the Roman general Pompey. Instead, it was erected in 291 AD in honor of Emperor Diocletian. Carved from a single piece of Aswan’s red granite, the Pompey Pillar stands tall at 26.85 meters.

Next, make your way to Saint Catherine Church. Admire the exquisite details of its neo-baroque architecture before stepping inside and marveling at the interplay of sunlight that illuminates its splendor.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll continue exploring the Qaitbay Citadel, a testament to the Mamluk Dynasty built upon the ruins of a former wonder of the ancient world.

Conclude your day at the Cornish, strolling across Stanley Bridge for an unforgettable view of the vast expanse of the sea.

Return to Cairo for the night.

Your day begins after breakfast with a meeting with your guide, who will lead you to the West Bank of Luxor. This is where you’ll embark on an exploration of the pharaohs’ glory, starting with the Valley of the Kings. Chosen by the pharaohs as their royal necropolis after the treasures of the Lower Egyptian pyramids were plundered, this valley holds 63 tombs carved into the mountainside. Among them is the famous tomb of the young King Tutankhamun. Step inside a royal tomb to witness the colorful scenes painted on the walls, offering a glimpse into the beliefs and funeral rites of Ancient Egypt.

Next, journey to the Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut. As you arrive, the impressive cliff will surely capture your attention. But the true wonder lies at the foot of this natural masterpiece: the temple itself.

Your final stop on the West Bank is the Colossi of Memnon. These massive statues, proudly standing with their gazes fixed upon the Nile, once served as guardians of Amenhotep’s memorial temple.

After lunch at a delightful local restaurant, you’ll venture to the East Bank of ancient Thebes to discover its two magnificent temples. Enter Karnak Temple, the largest ancient temple dedicated to the Theban triad of Amun, Mut, and their son Khonsu. Karnak was once connected to Luxor Temple by an avenue of sphinxes, used during the Opet Festival.

Conclude your day with a visit to Luxor Temple. As the setting sun casts its golden rays, you’ll experience the splendor of ancient architecture in its full glory. Enter the site, facing the immense pylon of Ramses II, his monumental colossi, and the unique obelisk (its twin was gifted to France by the viceroy Mehmet Ali).

This brings your remarkable tour to a close.