Arrive in Cairo. Arrive in Cairo via either Cairo International Airport or Sphinx International Airport. There are no scheduled activities planned for today, giving you time to settle in, unwind, after your journey.

If you arrive earlier in the day, we’ll meet in the evening for a casual dinner — nothing formal, just good food, your first taste of Cairo, and a chance to get to know the group before the adventure begins.

Cairo, Pyramids in Giza.

Visit the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, aka the legendary Pyramids of Giza with an expert guide. Midday, we pause for lunch — but not just anywhere. We’ve picked a special spot we’ll keep as a surprise, set in a truly magnificent setting that makes the experience even more memorable. We then continue to the Grand Egyptian Museum, a world-class space showcasing one of the most extensive collections of ancient Egyptian treasures ever displayed, including the full collection of Tutankhamun’s artifacts brought together in one place.

In the evening, we shift from ancient history to the streets of Cairo. We explore Downtown, walking through its lively streets, discovering iconic landmarks and hidden corners, and sampling some of the city’s best local street food along the way. We end the day with drinks at a local bar, a chance to unwind, connect, and get to know your fellow travelers. Because while the pyramids are unforgettable… this is the part most trips miss, where you begin to experience the real Cairo.

Aswan & Nubia

Today, we journey south to Upper Egypt. we take a short flight to Aswan and check in our deluxe Nile cruise. We then visit the beautiful Philae temple, set on an island in the Nile and dedicated to the goddess Isis.

We visit a vibrant Nubian village along the Nile. Surrounded by colorful homes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this is your introduction to Nubian culture — one of Egypt’s most unique and deeply rooted traditions.

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

We begin the day by visiting one of Egypt’s most breathtaking landmarks — the Abu Simbel Temples. Carved into the mountainside and later relocated stone by stone to save them from flooding, these monumental temples are among the country’s most awe-inspiring sights. On this day, we’ll also witness the extraordinary Abu Simbel Sun Festival, when the rising sun aligns perfectly with the temple’s inner sanctuary, illuminating the statues of the king — a rare and magical phenomenon that happens only twice a year. We then step aboard our Dahabiya Nile cruise and begin our journey along the Nile.

Temples of Egypt

We then visit the Kom Ombo temple, a unique riverside side known for its detailed carvings, crocodile mummies, which feels like a stone-carved library of ancient ritual and myth. From there, we sail to Edfu to explore the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, offering a remarkable glimpse into ancient Egyptian architecture and worship.

We then continue our journey along the Nile, sailing onward to Luxor.

Luxor West Bank & Return to Cairo

Before sunrise, you have the option to experience a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Luxor — drifting silently above the Nile, temples, and fields as the first light of day illuminates the landscape. We then continue to the West Bank to explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs. Next, we visit the remarkable Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, built for one of Egypt’s most iconic rulers — Queen Hatshepsut.

In the evening, we fly back to Cairo, where a hotel room will be arranged for you for the night. You can choose to relax and unwind at the hotel after the journey, or, if you have an early flight, you may prefer to wait at the airport for your flight.

Cairo Citadel, Museum of Civilization.

We begin the day at the Cairo Citadel, a historic fortress overlooking the city. Here, we explore its mosques and courtyards, including the striking Mosque of Muhammad Ali, while taking in panoramic views across Cairo. We then continue to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where we journey through thousands of years of Egyptian history — from prehistoric times to the modern day. The highlight is the Royal Mummies Hall, home to some of Egypt’s most iconic kings and queens.

In the evening, we step into the heart of historic Cairo. We wander through the vibrant streets of Khan el-Khalili and along Al-Muizz Street, discovering hidden corners, local crafts, and the atmosphere that makes this part of the city so unique. The day is complemented by a memorable dining experience at Mamai Restaurant, set within an authentic Mamluk-era palace along Al-Muizz Street — where history, architecture, and cuisine come together in one place.

Departure from Cairo

We arrange your transfer to Cairo International Airport or Sphinx international Airport for your flight home, depending on your departure time. If you wish to continue your journey in Egypt, we can also organize onward travel to destinations such as Hurghada, if you choose to simply relax and enjoy a few days by the Red Sea after your long journey.