Pharaohs' Footsteps 2011 - 12

Itinerary

Day 1 - Cairo

Arrive at Cairo International Airport. An arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel is included. Join our fellow passengers and Trip Leader in the evening for a group meeting to learn more about the trip.

 

Day 2 - Cairo

In the morning we are accompanied by a qualified, English speaking Egyptologist on our visit to the Egyptian Museum. Housing over 100,000 relics including the magnificent treasures of King Tutankhamun, the museum is a must-see for all visiting Cairo. We then visit the Great Pyramid of Giza, which is one of the surviving ‘Seven Ancient Wonders of the World’ and the mighty Sphinx. (B)

 

Day 3 - Cairo - Aswan

Cairo, the bustling metropolis beckons and a free day allows for further exploration.

Visit the vibrant Khan el Khalili market or take an optional tour to discover more of this fascinating city. In the evening we transfer to the train station to board the first class overnight train to Aswan, a city with a relaxed and appealing charm after the hustle and bustle of Cairo. (B)

 

Day 4 - Aswan

After breakfast (on board train), we arrive in Aswan and transfer to the hotel to freshen up. In the afternoon we board a felucca to see the Elephantine and Kitchener Islands, viewing the Nilometer, Aga Khan Mausoleum and the Tombs of the Nobles. We continue to a Nubian Village to learn about the lifestyle and customs of the original inhabitants of this region. (B)

 

Day 5 - Aswan

This morning we have a very early departure to Abu Simbel to visit the incredible temple built by Ramesses II. We also visit the Temple of Hathor, built in honour of the goddess of love and music and Ramesses’ wife, Queen Nefertari. On returning to Aswan, there is an optional tour to the Temple of Isis.This afternoon there is free time to enjoy a drink by the pool or shop in the colourful bazaars. In the evening enjoy an option to dine on the banks of the Nile in a truly memorable setting. (B)

 

Days 6-7 - Felucca Journey

We hop on board for our voyage along the River Nile, with the next two days being a time of complete relaxation, swimming and perhaps trying your hand at sailing. On board, the Nubian crew cook and sail, giving us the chance to do as much or as little as we wish. (Bx2, Lx2, Dx2)

*Please ensure you bring a sleeping bag with you

 

Day 8 - Luxor

We stop at Kom Ombo temple where we visit with an Egyptologist and then we continue to the ancient capital Luxor from where we take a trip by air-conditioned minibus as the guide introduces us to the amazing Temple of Karnak and the

Temple of Luxor. (B)

 

Day 9 - Luxor

A highlight for all visitors to Egypt is the guided tour of the Valley of the Kings. This magnificent necropolis houses the tombs of the pharaohs, including that of King Tutankhamun. We also visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. There is also time to visit the colourful market of Luxor. (B)

 

Days 10-11 - Luxor - Hurghada

This morning we head across the desert to the beautiful Red Sea, where we have plenty of free time to enjoy the beach and facilities. A desert safari on quad bikes is a great option, as is an excursion to beautiful Gifton Island. We enjoy our dinners at our hotel and in the evenings the town is alive with many small bars, cafes and night clubs lining the main street. (Bx2, Dx2)

 

Day 12 - Hurghada - Cairo

Today we leave the beach behind us as we make our way back to vibrant Cairo for our final night in magical Egypt. (B)

 

Day 13 - Cairo

Our trip ends at the hotel after breakfast. (B)