Departure from Cairo, 10 days 9 nights Cairo and the Nile Valley between Luxor and Aswan, including 5 days on a 5 star cruise Boat

Welcome at Cairo International Airport.

Transfer to your hotel and check-in.

Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a full day of sightseeing.

Memphis

Visit the ancient site of Memphis, the first capital of Ancient Egypt, founded by the legendary King Menes around 3100 BC. For more than two millennia, Memphis served as a major political, religious, and cultural center of the Egyptian civilization.

The city was home to magnificent temples, royal palaces, and impressive monuments. Among its most notable remains are the nearby Saqqara necropolis and the Mit Rahina Open-Air Museum, where visitors can admire colossal statues and valuable artifacts that reflect the former glory of this ancient capital.

Saqqara

Continue to Saqqara, one of Egypt’s most important archaeological sites, renowned for its vast necropolis. The site contains numerous tombs and mastabas dating back to ancient times, as well as the famous Step Pyramid of King Djoser.

Considered the first monumental stone structure ever built in history, the Step Pyramid represents Egypt’s earliest attempt at pyramid construction. Saqqara offers a fascinating insight into ancient Egyptian funerary architecture, with richly decorated tombs, temples, and chapels dedicated to various gods and goddesses. Exploring the site provides a remarkable glimpse into one of the world’s greatest civilizations.

Dahshur

Proceed to Dahshur, home to two extraordinary pyramids built by King Sneferu, founder of the Fourth Dynasty and father of the famous Pharaoh Khufu.

The site features:

• The Bent Pyramid, renowned for its unique change in angle during construction.
• The Red Pyramid, considered Egypt’s first successful true pyramid.

These monuments illustrate the evolution of pyramid architecture, bridging the gap between the Step Pyramid of Saqqara and the perfectly shaped pyramids of Giza. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore the interior of the Red Pyramid and appreciate its impressive architectural design.

Return to Cairo

At the end of the day, return to your hotel in Cairo.

Overnight in Cairo.

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a full day of exploration.

Giza Plateau

Visit the legendary Giza Plateau, one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites and a symbol of Ancient Egyptian civilization.

The plateau is home to the famous Pyramids of Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren), and Menkaure (Mykerinos), masterpieces of engineering that have stood for more than 4,500 years.

You will also discover the mysterious Great Sphinx, carved from limestone with the body of a lion and the head of a king, guarding the necropolis with its timeless gaze. Nearby stands the impressive Valley Temple of King Khafre, built from massive blocks of granite and limestone, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the ancient Egyptians.

Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

Continue to the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the largest archaeological museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization.

Located near the Giza Plateau, the museum offers an extraordinary journey through 7,000 years of Egyptian history, displaying more than 100,000 ancient artifacts. Visitors can admire colossal statues, beautifully preserved reliefs, colorful inscriptions, exquisite jewelry, and countless treasures from Egypt's glorious past.

A highlight of the museum is the complete collection of Tutankhamun's treasures, displayed together for the first time, offering an unparalleled insight into the life and legacy of the young pharaoh.

Return to Cairo

After visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum, return to your hotel in Cairo for a well-deserved rest.

Overnight at the hotel in Cairo.

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a full-day excursion.

Saladin Citadel

The Citadel of Saladin is one of the most iconic fortresses in the Middle East. It was built in the 12th century by the famous Muslim commander Saladin (Salah ad-Din) to protect Cairo from foreign invasions.

Construction began in 1176 and continued for several years. During your visit, you will explore its impressive defensive walls, historic mosques, and richly decorated palaces while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of Cairo from its ramparts.

Listed as part of Cairo's UNESCO World Heritage Site, the citadel remains a powerful symbol of medieval Egypt’s strength and grandeur.

Sultan Hassan Mosque and Madrasa

The Mosque and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan is one of Cairo's most magnificent Islamic monuments.

Built during the 14th century by the Mamluk Sultan Hassan ibn Muhammad ibn Qalawun, the mosque was intended to be the largest and most impressive religious complex in Egypt. Construction began in 1356 and lasted nearly seven years.

Constructed from stone and marble, the building features majestic domes, elegant arches, and an imposing façade. Inside, visitors can admire exquisite marble work, intricate mosaics, carved wooden decorations, and one of the most remarkable mihrabs in the Islamic world, distinguished by its extraordinary geometric patterns and artistic craftsmanship.

Its beauty, scale, and historical significance make it one of Cairo’s must-see landmarks.

Mosque of Ahmad Ibn Tulun

The Mosque of Ahmad Ibn Tulun is one of the oldest and largest mosques in Islamic Cairo.

Built between 876 and 879 by Ahmad Ibn Tulun, founder of the Tulunid Dynasty that ruled Egypt and Syria from 868 to 905, the mosque is considered one of the finest examples of early Islamic architecture.

Covering more than six hectares, it features a vast courtyard, elegant arcades, and a distinctive spiral minaret inspired by Abbasid architecture. Visitors can admire its beautifully carved wooden minbar, marble fountain, and intricate stucco decorations.

Despite several restorations throughout its history, the mosque has preserved its authenticity and remains an active place of worship today.

Gayer-Anderson Museum

The Gayer-Anderson Museum takes its name from Major Robert Grenville Gayer-Anderson, a British officer who lived in the house during the 1930s and 1940s.

Originally built in the 17th century, the residence is a masterpiece of traditional Islamic domestic architecture. It is organized around several courtyards and adorned with carved wooden screens, colorful tiles, painted ceilings, and elegant reception rooms.

Major Gayer-Anderson lovingly restored the house and filled it with an impressive collection of Egyptian, Islamic, and Oriental art and antiques. Since 1945, the house has been open to the public as a museum and remains one of Cairo's most fascinating cultural treasures.

Khan El Khalili Bazaar

End the day at the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in the Islamic world.

This historic souk is a maze of narrow alleys lined with colorful shops, traditional workshops, and bustling cafes. The atmosphere is alive with merchants calling out their offers, the aroma of Egyptian coffee and street food, and visitors searching for unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures.

You can browse stalls selling jewelry, spices, perfumes, textiles, lanterns, antiques, and traditional handicrafts. The market is also an excellent place to sample local specialties such as falafel, kebabs, and traditional Egyptian pastries.

Khan El Khalili offers an authentic glimpse into Cairo's culture, history, and daily life, making it an unforgettable experience.

Return to the Hotel

Return to your hotel in Cairo at the end of the day.

Overnight at the hotel in Cairo.

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor.

Upon arrival at Luxor Airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to your cruise Boat .

check in l and begin your 5 day 4 night Nile cruise.

Lunch on board

In the afternoon, depart to visit:

Karnak Temple Complex

The Karnak Temple Complex is one of the most impressive and best-preserved archaeological sites in Egypt. It consists of several major temples, including the magnificent Temple of Amun-Ra, the Temple of Khonsu, and the Temple of Ptah.

In ancient times, these temples were connected to the Luxor Temple by the famous Avenue of Sphinxes, a ceremonial road stretching several kilometers.

Karnak served as Egypt’s most important religious center for centuries and was continuously expanded and embellished by generations of pharaohs. Today, visitors can admire its extraordinary ruins, including the massive columns of the Great Hypostyle Hall, towering obelisks, and monumental gateways that reflect the grandeur of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Luxor Temple

In the late afternoon, depart to visit the magnificent Luxor Temple.

Built during the 18th Dynasty and expanded by several pharaohs, including Amenhotep III, Ramesses II, and Thutmose III, Luxor Temple is one of the most remarkable and best-preserved monuments of Ancient Egypt.

The temple is renowned for its monumental pylons, colossal statues, massive obelisks, and grand colonnades. Its walls are decorated with beautifully carved reliefs and hieroglyphic inscriptions depicting gods, pharaohs, religious ceremonies, military victories, and sacred rituals.

Within the temple complex, visitors can explore a series of courtyards, chapels, and sanctuaries dedicated to the ancient Egyptian deities Amun, Mut, and Khonsu.

Evening

Return to the cruise ship.

Dinner and overnight on board.

After breakfast on board, depart to discover the treasures of the Theban Necropolis on the west bank of the Nile. (Optional hot air balloon ride available.)

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is one of Egypt’s most famous and fascinating archaeological sites. Between the 16th and 11th centuries BC, it served as the royal burial ground of the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt.

The first tombs were carved into the limestone cliffs during the New Kingdom, around 1500 BC. Many of Egypt’s most renowned rulers were buried here, including Tutankhamun, Ramesses II, Amenhotep III, and other powerful pharaohs.

The tombs are richly decorated with colorful wall paintings, hieroglyphic inscriptions, and intricate carvings depicting scenes of daily life, religious beliefs, and the pharaohs’ journey to the afterlife.

Today, the Valley of the Kings stands as an extraordinary testament to the greatness and sophistication of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Temple of Queen Hatshepsut

Continue to the magnificent Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of the few women who ruled Egypt as pharaoh.

Built dramatically against the towering cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, the temple is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture. It consists of three impressive terraces connected by ramps and adorned with beautifully carved reliefs and hieroglyphic inscriptions recounting the life, achievements, and reign of Queen Hatshepsut.

The temple also features grand colonnaded courtyards, a sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hathor, and several chapels and sacred chambers.

Colossi of Memnon

Stop for photos at the famous Colossi of Memnon, two massive sandstone statues standing approximately 17 meters high.

These monumental statues represent Pharaoh Amenhotep III seated on his throne and have guarded the Theban Necropolis for more than 3,000 years.

Return to the Cruise Ship

Return to the ship in the early afternoon and enjoy lunch on board before beginning your cruise southward along the Nile.

During the afternoon, relax as you admire the peaceful scenery of the Nile’s banks slowly passing by. Lush greenery, traditional villages, and timeless landscapes create an atmosphere of serenity and charm.

Afternoon tea time will be on the sun deck, offering the perfect opportunity to enjoy the fascinating passage through the Esna Lock. The cruise then continues to Edfu, located approximately 65 km south of Esna and 125 km south of Luxor.

Evening on Board

Dinner will be on board.

Enjoy a pleasant musical atmosphere in the lounge bar.

Overnight on board.

Breakfast on board.

Depart by horse carriage to visit the Temple of Edfu:

The Temple of Edfu, also known as the Temple of Horus, is one of the largest and best-preserved temples of Ancient Egypt. It was built between 237 and 57 BC during the Ptolemaic period.

The temple consists of several courtyards, hypostyle halls, chapels, and sanctuaries. Its walls are decorated with remarkable bas-reliefs and hieroglyphic inscriptions depicting scenes from Egyptian mythology, religious rituals, and battles. The highlight of the temple is the inner sanctuary, which houses a granite statue of Horus.

Return to the cruise Boat and continue sailing for approximately 80 km to Kom Ombo, arriving in the late afternoon.

Lunch on board and a relaxing afternoon enjoying the picturesque and unique scenery along the Nile. Afternoon tea time will be on the sun deck.

Upon arrival in Kom Ombo, departure for the visit of:

The Temple of Kom Ombo

Built during the Ptolemaic period between the 2nd century BC and the 1st century AD, the Temple of Kom Ombo is uniquely dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. For this reason, it is often referred to as the "Temple of the Crocodiles." Crocodiles were highly revered in this region, and numerous crocodile mummies have been discovered near the temple.

The temple's reliefs and sculptures depict scenes of daily life, religious ceremonies, and mythological battles. Visitors can admire its richly decorated columns, exceptionally well-preserved carvings, and stunning views over the Nile. The temple stands as a remarkable testament to the wealth and grandeur of Ancient Egypt.

Return to the ship and continue sailing approximately 45 km south to Aswan.

Egyptian themed dinner on board followed by a traditional costume party in the lounge bar.

Overnight on board.

Breakfast on board followed by a visit to the historical treasures and beautiful landscapes of Aswan.

Philae Temple

The Temple of Philae is dedicated to the goddess Isis and was built between the 4th century BC and the 2nd century AD. It is a remarkable example of ancient Egyptian architecture, featuring massive columns, finely carved reliefs, and impressive pylons. The entrance is marked by a monumental gateway decorated with hieroglyphs and symbolic representations of the goddess Isis.

Inside the temple complex, visitors can explore several halls and chapels dedicated to various gods and goddesses of Ancient Egypt.

Philae was one of the most important religious centers of Ancient Egypt and attracted pilgrims from across the country who came to worship Isis. Following the construction of the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s, the original island of Philae was submerged by the waters of the Nile. To preserve this magnificent monument, the entire temple complex was carefully dismantled and relocated to the nearby island of Agilkia.

Today, Philae Temple is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers visitors a fascinating insight into the worship of Isis and the grandeur of Ancient Egyptian civilization.

The Unfinished Obelisk

The history of the Unfinished Obelisk dates back to the reign of Queen Hatshepsut during the 18th Dynasty (15th century BC). It was intended to be erected at the Temple of Karnak in Thebes.

Measuring more than 40 meters in length and weighing approximately 1,200 tons, it remains the largest known ancient obelisk ever attempted. It was carved directly from the granite bedrock in one of Aswan's quarries. However, a large crack appeared during the carving process, forcing the project to be abandoned.

Today, visitors can see the obelisk still lying in its original quarry, providing a unique and fascinating glimpse into the engineering techniques used by the ancient Egyptians.

Return to the cruise ship for lunch on board.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a relaxing felucca ride (traditional Egyptian sailing boat) around Elephantine Island, offering beautiful views of the Nile and Aswan's picturesque scenery.

Dinner on board followed by a traditional Nubian folklore show in the lounge bar.

Overnight on board.

Breakfast on board your cruise ship.

Enjoy a free morning at leisure, with the possibility of taking an optional excursion to Abu Simbel, one of Egypt’s most spectacular archaeological sites, renowned for its colossal temples built by Pharaoh Ramses II.

Disembarkation from the cruise ship.

Transfer to your hotel in Aswan and check-in.

The remainder of the day is free for relaxation or personal exploration of the city.

Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel (depending on your flight schedule).

Transfer to Aswan Airport for your domestic flight to Cairo, according to the timing of your international departure flight.

Upon arrival in Cairo, connect with your international flight home.

End of services.