We are a certified Icelandic travel company specialized in Egypt trips.
The Wandering Sphinx is a licensed Icelandic travel company founded by Ahmed and Konni after meeting at the University of Iceland.
Konni is Icelandic. Ahmed is Egyptian, lived in Iceland for almost six years, and now lives in Egypt where he personally oversees our trips.
What makes our trips special?
One thing we've noticed from speaking to people who have travelled to Egypt is that many return home having seen the pyramids and temples — but without really experiencing Egypt itself.
They may have never tried authentic Egyptian food. They may not know how Egyptians greet each other. They may leave without learning even the simplest Egyptian Arabic expression, like how to say thank you.
We want to change that.
Of course, we'll take you to the places you came to Egypt to see — Pyramids of Giza, ancient temples, tombs, beaches, and other iconic landmarks. But between those landmarks, we'll introduce you to the Egypt that exists beyond the guidebook.
You'll taste local dishes, discover Egyptian traditions, explore markets and neighborhoods, meet local people, and learn about the small details of everyday life.
By the end of the trip, we don't want you to simply say:
“I've seen the pyramids.”
We want you to be able to say:
“I've experienced Egypt.”
And yes — your flights are included.
We choose flights according to a few simple rules:
One layover maximum
No self-transfers
Checked luggage included
Transit of no more than 8 hours
Established airlines such as Icelandair, British Airways and EgyptAir
We have connections with private flight agents in Egypt to ensure our travellers get the best price. However, unforeseen circumstances happen and sometimes price flights change drastically. If this happens, we’ll confirm with you if the price difference is acceptable. If not, we refund your full deposit. Simple as that.
Winter in Egypt (Premium Edition)
Price: 480.000 ISK (Early Bird Price 🐦) 505.000 ISK
Dates: 20 November 2026 - 28 November 2026 (9 days and 8 nights)
Availability: Only 10-14 slots
Eco-friendly and more exclusive Dahabiya Nile cruise. This isn't a crowded cruise ship—it's a private sailing experience for our group of up to 14. Not only will you be accompanied by a professional guide throughout the trip, there will also be an Egyptologist on historic sites to give you all the ancient Egyptian tea 🍵 !
Itinerary
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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.
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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.
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Aswan & Nubia
Today, we journey south to Upper Egypt. we take a short flight to Aswan. We then visit the beautiful Philae temple, set on an island in the Nile and dedicated to the goddess Isis.
By evening, we check into a boutique guesthouse in 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.
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Abu Simbel & Dahabiya embarkation
We begin the day by going to one of the country’s most breathtaking landmarks — the Abu Simbel Temples. Carved into the mountainside and relocated stone by stone to save them from flooding, these monumental temples are among Egypt’s most awe-inspiring sights. We then check in our Dahabiya* and start sailing north.
In the evening, we begin sailing towards Kom Ombo, and enjoy our first night on the Nile, surrounded by calm waters and timeless landscapes.
* A deluxe Nile cruise will be arranged instead if we don't meet the minimum number of guests required for Dahabiya Nile cruises. -
Dahabiya Nile Cruise Day 2
After breakfast on board, 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.
In the afternoon, we take a traditional horse-carriage ride to reach the magnificent Edfu temple.
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Luxor East Bank
Today we arrive at Luxor and check out our Dahabiya. we then visit the famous Karnak temple complex, a monumental site shaped over centuries by generations of Pharaohs.
By evening, we check in our hotel in Luxor and then explore the elegant Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated at night, revealing a completely different atmosphere compared to the day.
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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 the night.
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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.
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Departure from Cairo or stay longer?
We arrange your transfer to Cairo International Airport or Sphinx international Airport for your flight home, depending on your departure time.
There is a Shakira Concert at the Pyramids on this night, so if you bought tickets and wish to stay an extra night, we can arrange for a shuttle and accommodation for you. Just talk to us anytime!
* Please note that the program is subject to change.
Still have questions? Talk to us on Messenger.
Need to know →
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Visa fees and application
Roundtrip flights from Iceland to Egypt and domestic flights within Egypt *
All ground transportation throughout Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor, including Transportation to and from the airport
Accommodation: two adults sharing a room. Single rooms are available upon request and for an extra charge.
4 or 5 nights in a Hotel or a guesthouse in Cairo
2 nights / 3 days on a Dahabiya Nile cruise
1 night in a guesthouse in a Nubian village
1 night in a hotel in Luxor
All entry tickets to sites mentioned in the itinerary, including:
Pyramids of Giza
Grand Egyptian Museum
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Cairo Citadel
All temples and archaeological sites in Luxor and Aswan
Guided experiences throughout the journey
Licensed Egyptologist guide at key sites (including Pyramids, Luxor, and Aswan)
Meals on the Dahabiya (breakfasts, dinner)
Selected additional dinners
All Breakfasts
Tips & gratuity
* We work with trusted flight agents to secure the best available fares. The included flight price is based on availability at the time of booking. If we cannot secure the same fare, we'll inform you of the updated price and ask for your approval before confirming your booking. Once your booking is confirmed, no further flight price adjustments will apply.
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Optional activities (e.g. hot air balloon in Luxor)
Some lunches and meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Extra charges for certain tombs in the Valley of the kings.
Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks, etc.)
Lunch spot in the pyramids.
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At The Wandering Sphinx, we operate as a boutique travel company, focusing on experience over standardization. Instead of locking our trips into fixed hotels, we carefully select accommodations for each departure based on:
seasonality
availability
location
overall experience
This allows us to choose the best possible stay for each trip, rather than being tied to the same hotel year-round.
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We have friends all over the world and think there’s something in Egypt for everybody. So we’d love to have you. Email us here, and we’ll get back to you within 2 days to figure it out.
Shakira Concert at the Pyramids
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Shakira Concert at the Pyramids 💃
There is a Shakira concert at the Pyramids on November 29th, one day after the end of our trip. Let us know if you do get tickets, as we can plan the shuttle and accommodation for you.
Book your spots
Two steps to reserve your spot:
1) Firstly, please fill out this form so we know who the booking is for.
2) Finally, please transfer a deposit of 232.000 ISK per person to the bank account below. This deposit ensures we can reserve your spot for flights and accommodation.
Account number: 0133-26-023276
Kennitala: 690126-0520
Account name: Amber Adventures ehf.
What happens then?
Once we receive your details and the payment, we will send you a confirmation email.
The remaining balance will be invoiced two months prior to the trip. Kindly note that full payment must be completed no later than one month before the departure date to secure your spot.
What happens after booking?
Once we process your booking, we will send you a confirmation email, usually within 24 hours, with more information about the trip including expected weather, what to wear, how to pack and useful information about applying for an online visa (if you need one).
For any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us via hae@thewanderingsphinx.com.