With most international flights scheduled to land in the middle of the night or very early in the morning, we have secured rooms for the night prior to Day 1 of the tour so arrival in Egypt is comfortable, seamless, and restful.

Overnight Sheraton Hotel Cairo (or similar) – 4 nights

*Independent arrival to Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Upon arrival in Cairo (expected 4:25am) meet our local representative, who will assist us through arrival formalities followed by a private group transfer to the hotel. Settle into your room and enjoy a restorative rest after the overnight journey. Later this afternoon, step into the heartbeat of Cairo as we wander through the famed Khan El Khalili bazaar and along Muiz Street, one of the oldest streets in the Islamic world. Here, the sounds, scents, and colours of Cairo welcome you to Egypt’s vibrant culture. This evening, gather for a festive welcome dinner to celebrate the start of our journey together.

*Note: This is a land only tour, however, Broad Escapes will suggest a designated flight from Toronto. The group transfer will be based on the recommended group flight arrival time. Private transfers (additional cost) can be arranged for those arriving at a different time/date. Flights from all gateways can be arranged through Broad Escapes.

Delve into the spiritual history of Old Coptic Cairo, visiting the Hanging Church, the Church of St. Sergius, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue—three sacred places that reflect centuries of cultural coexistence.  We continue to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization for an unforgettable encounter with the Royal Mummies, preserved with astonishing detail. After lunch, ascend to the Citadel for sweeping views across Cairo and explore the magnificent Mohamed Ali Mosque.

Today we begin our journey into Egypt’s ancient past at Memphis, the first unified capital of the Old Kingdom. Amid statues, relics, and stories carved in stone, you’ll feel the presence of Egypt’s earliest dynasties. Continue to Sakkara, the vast desert necropolis where the remarkable Step Pyramid of Zoser—the world’s earliest large-scale stone monument—rises from the sand. Here, explore beautifully decorated tombs whose vibrant carvings have endured for millennia.  Midday, enjoy an authentic taste of Egyptian hospitality and cultural exchange as local women prepare a traditional home-style lunch.  This afternoon, stand before one of the world’s greatest wonders: the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx.  Marvel at the majesty of the Great Pyramid including entrance to the King’s Chamber.  A camel ride with sweeping views of the pyramids and Sphinx adds the perfect timeless touch to an unforgettable day.

An early flight takes us south to Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum. We begin with the monumental Karnak Temple complex before enjoying a curated visit to the excellent Luxor Museum.  This afternoon, step aboard a luxury private Dahabiya, our elegant floating home for the next several days. Enjoy the calm of the Nile as we settle in. This evening, we return ashore for a magical nighttime visit to Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated against the desert sky.  Dinner is served on board as we begin our serene Nile sailing journey.

Overnight Luxury Private Dahabiya – 5 nights – Tonight we dock in Luxor

Cross to Luxor’s West Bank to explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, including entrance to the tomb of King Tutankhamen. Continue to the magnificent temple of Queen Hatshepsut before a photo stop at the towering Colossi of Memnon.  Back on board, we begin our gentle sail south toward Esna.

Overnight Luxury Private Dahabiya – Esna

Enjoy an early morning sail to El Kab, where ancient tombs and temple ruins offer a glimpse into Egypt’s lesser-known past. Continue onward to Edfu for a visit to the remarkably preserved temple dedicated to Horus. We end this serene day sailing to the quiet island of Ramadi. As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxed barbecue dinner on the island, a special moment surrounded by nature and starlit skies.

Overnight Luxury Private Dahabiya – Ramadi Island

Today we sail to the charming village of Besaw, where we are welcomed into a local home for tea and friendly conversation—a heartfelt cultural exchange unique to dahabiya travel. We continue to the ancient quarries and shrines of Gebel el-Silsila, a rarely visited site accessible only to smaller boats. Afterwards, sail onward to Kom Ombo for a visit to its unusual double temple dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris. Our dahabiya then glides to the tranquil Herdyab Island for a peaceful night on the Nile.

Overnight Luxury Private Dahabiya – Herdyab Island

Enjoy a leisurely morning onboard before arriving in Aswan to visit the enchanting island temple of Philae. Continue to a colourful Nubian village for an immersive and cultural afternoon.  Meet women artisans who specialize in traditional scarf weaving, learn about their artistry, and enjoy a fun henna-drawing experience.  Tonight, we gather for a memorable dinner celebrating our last dinner on board and the timeless beauty of the Nile River.

Overnight Luxury Private Dahabiya – Aswan

This morning, transfer to the Aswan airport for our flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the most extensive collection of Pharaonic treasures ever assembled. Explore masterpieces from across Egypt’s ancient periods, including the extraordinary artifacts from the tomb of King Tutankhamen.  We’ll gather for one final meal together, a time to reflect on the unforgettable sites, connections and experiences we shared throughout this extraordinary journey.   Later, check into our hotel for a leisurely afternoon and evening. Connected directly to City Stars Mall, our hotel offers countless ways to enjoy your free time—browse boutiques, pick up last-minute gifts, or simply unwind in the comfort of your room before the overnight flight home.

Overnight Intercontinental City Stars (or similar) – 1 night

It’s time to bid farewell to Egypt! With many international flights departing in early hours of the of the night (early hours of November 8), we expect a very early private group transfer to the airport to connect with overnight flights home.

Thank you for choosing Broad Escapes!

B – Breakfast / L – Lunch / D – Dinner

**While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary described above, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the tour. Due to traffic or other circumstances beyond our control, it may be necessary or desirable to make alterations. Broad Escapes reserves the right to change the itinerary when deemed necessary.**

Level 2 – Moderate

This trip is appropriate for travellers who are in good health and are comfortable with full-day excursions.  Participants with basic good balance, mobility, and moderate fitness level should not require physical preparation to enjoy the various activities of this tour.  Walking on uneven terrain, sometimes uphill, walking and standing for long periods of time during guided tours, easy physical activities, stairways sometimes without handles, absence of elevators, and getting on and off various modes of transportation unassisted can be expected.