Ultimate Egypt 2013-14

Itinerary

Day 1 Cairo.

An arrival transfer from the airport to the hotel is included. Join your fellow passengers and Trip Leader in the evening to learn more about the trip.

 

Day 2 Cairo.

In the morning we visit the Egyptian Museum housing over 100,000 relics including the magnificent treasures of King Tutankhamun. On the Giza plateau, overlooking Cairo we view the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, Egypt's most renowned monuments. (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 choose an optional tour to discover more of this fascinating city. In the evening we 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. This afternoon we board a motorboat to pass by the Elephantine and Kitchener Islands, viewing the Nilometer, Aga Khan Mausoleum and the Tombs of the Nobles on the west bank of the Nile. 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 Ramses II. We also visit the Temple of Hathor, built in honour of the Goddess of Love and Music and Ramses' wife, Queen Nefertari. On returning to Aswan there is an optional tour visiting the majestic setting of the Temple of Isis on the Island of Philae. In the evening there is an option to dine on the banks of the Nile, a truly memorable setting. (B)

 

Days 6-7 Felucca Journey.

Today we hop aboard our felucca, ready for two days of complete relaxation. On board, the Nubian crew cook and sail giving us the chance to do as much or as little as we wish. (B,L,D) (B,L,D)

 

Day 8 Luxor.

We stop at Kom Ombo temple with our Egyptologist before continuing to the ancient capital of Luxor, from where we take a trip by air-conditioned mini-bus as our guide introduces us to the amazing Temple of Karnak. We explore the Temple of Luxor as the tour of the east bank continues, discovering the magnificence of what was once the capital of Egypt. (B)

 

Day 9 Luxor.

A highlight for all visitors to Egypt is the guided tour of the Valley of the Kings, which after the Pyramids of Giza, is the most famous site in Egypt. We also visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. There is time to visit the colourful market of Luxor famous for its gold and silver. (B)

 

Days 10-11 Hurghada.

This morning we head across the desert to the beautiful Red Sea. The days are free to enjoy the beach and facilities. Choose from an array of optional activities including snorkelling, boat tours and desert safaris. (B,D) (B,D)

 

Day 12 Hurghada - Cairo.

After a free morning to savour the sun, sand and sea at the resort we travel back to Cairo. (B)

 

Day 13 Cairo - Dahab.

We depart this morning for the Sinai Peninsula, stopping en route for lunch. We arrive in Dahab, formerly a Bedouin fishing village and now home to some of Egypt's best diving. (B)

 

Days 14-17 Dahab.

Four days lie ahead to enjoy at leisure. Swimming, snorkelling, water sports and relaxation are all on hand. Also the local diving centre can help you with any equipment hire or to locate the best dive spots in the Red Sea. On land, experience the thrill of a desert safari on quad bikes or camels. At night the fire lit seafood eateries are tempting for dinner. There is also an option to climb to the top of Mt Sinai, where you can witness the spectacular sunrise - one of the most unforgettable views in Egypt. In the morning, after descending to the valley floor we visit the Monastery of St Catherine. (B) (B) (B) (B)

 

Day 18 Dahab - Cairo.

This morning we reluctantly say goodbye to the town of Dahab and set off into the mountains of the Sinai Peninsula on our way back to Cairo. (B)

 

Day 19 Cairo.

The trip ends at the hotel today after breakfast. (B)

Please note: A sleeping bag is required for this trip