Diva Moments
Private access only to the Paws of the Sphinx
Exceptional private-guided touring
Luxurious 4 night Nile Cruise
Abu Simbel and the twin temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari
Entry to King Seti I tomb at the Valley of the Kings.
Entry to King Tut tomb at the Valley of the Kings.
Entry to Carter House.
Luxury and iconic accommodation throughout
The Ancient Sites of Egypt
Private English-speaking Egyptologist in Cairo & on-board cruise
Plus much, much more…
Take a step back in time on this incredible Journey of a Lifetime, Egypt: Following in the Footsteps of the Pharaohs. You will follow in the footsteps of Pharaohs, explorers, lovers of ancient history and of course Agatha Christie, who was so inspired by what she experienced, she penned ‘Death on the Nile’.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey has been created in collaboration with Abercrombie & Kent, and take you to so many extraordinary landscapes and environs you’ll feel like you’re starring in a ‘living’ movie..
Egypt has made a triumphant comeback in recent years, re-establishing itself as an alluring, exciting and friendly travel destination. Surround yourself with contemporary comforts, outstanding cuisine and mesmerising sights as you holiday in one of the world’s oldest and most vibrant nations. This is all wrapped in the best accommodation available, and superb experiences that will deliver memories of an Egypt that will stay with you for a lifetime.
A favourite of intrepid travellers from ancient times to the modern era, you will be immersed in this ancient culture through tailored private touring and the storytelling of local guides and Egyptologists (as well as the the astounding living museum you will explore).
Glide along the Nile and experience breathtaking desert landscapes aboard your luxury river cruise, exploring timeless landscapes and breathtaking monuments.
Fully escorted from Cairo by the fabulous Jane Thomson OAM, this journey provides the opportunity to get lost in an extraordinary country that today combines modern and ancient cultures, offering travellers a unique opportunity to glimpse both sides of life.
Book today or contact us here with any questions you may have!
Tour Price: USD$14,495 per person twin share. A single supplement of USD$3,750 applies. Optional dawn hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings: USD$275 per person.
Tour Starts: Cairo
Tour Ends: Cairo
Tour Dates: 21 October – 01 November 2024
PRICE INCLUDES:
Fully escorted from Cairo by Jane Thomson
An expert Egyptologist and specialist private guides throughout the tour
4 nights’ luxury 5-star accommodation in a Nile view room, The St Regis, Cairo
4 nights’ luxury Nile cruise in a Cabin Bridge Deck, Sanctuary Nile Adventurer
2 nights’ luxury 5-star accommodation in a Palace Prestige Suite, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan
1 night luxury 5-star accommodation in a Nile view room, The St Regis Cairo
VIP arrival including assistance with visa and immigration
Internal domestic flights – economy class. Upgrade price available on request – subject to availability
Private transport throughout including arrival and departure airport transfers in modern Air-conditioned vehicle
All walking tours and private guided touring as listed in the itinerary
Private access only to the Paws of the Sphinx
Abu Simbel excursion
Entry ticket to King Seti I tomb at the Valley of the Kings.
Entry ticket to King Tut tomb at the Valley of the Kings.
Entry ticket to Carter House.
All the admissions for the sightseeing stated in the program.
All meals as mentioned in the program
Portage at airports and hotels.
Mineral water on vehicle
NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR:
MARCH 2023
Day 1 – Monday 21: Welcome to the ancient world, staying in the lap of luxury…
Upon arrival in Cairo you will be met by your A&K guide and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. You will be assisted with check-in at the beautiful St Regis. Cairo, with divine views of the Nile from each room.
In the afternoon meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel to start your immersive cultural walking tour.
Take a walking tour down Muiz El-Din Allah Street, this was the the heart of Old Cairo. Start at Baab El-Fotouh, the massive, fortified gate in the north wall of the historic city. Walk through the narrow pedestrian street deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 for being one of the world’s oldest Islamic streets. On this walk, you will see the greatest concentration of medieval architectural treasures in the Islamic world including some of the world’s oldest mosques, madrasas, fountains and reservoirs.
Al Moez embodies a striking juxtaposition, blending its historical significance seamlessly with contemporary life. As you stroll through, you’ll encounter numerous local vendors offering an array of goods, from butchers and lemon vendors to bazaars, workshops, coffee roasteries, antique shops, fish markets, and more. The entire street exudes excitement and charm at every turn.
At conclusion of your tour, you will be transferred in your air conditioned transfer back to your hotel.
Overnight Accommodation: The St. Regis Cairo – Astor Room, Full Nile View
Day 2 – Tuesday 22: Sakkara, The Pyramids and exclusive access to the ‘Paws’ of the Sphinx…
Today you will enjoy a full day tour to Sakkara and the Pyramids at Giza. Sakkara, was the former necropolis (cemetery) for the ancient Egyptian city of Memphis and the place where the very first pyramids were built as tombs for kings. Instead of the smooth sides featured on other pyramids, the pyramids here feature six steps on the outside, representing the pharaoh’s stepladder to heaven. Discover the famous Step Pyramid of King Zoser, the first pyramid ever built and the world’s oldest freestanding stone structure.
Lunch today is at 9 Pyramids Lounge, a spectacular and unique restaurant venue, featuring the most spectacular Great Pyramids view.
After lunch proceed to the famed Pyramids and Sphinx. The Great Pyramids of Giza are the only present-day survivors of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. They were built approximately 4500 years ago, as giant tombs for the mummies of the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, who were a father, son and grandson. The pyramids are truly monumental in scale, with the largest, Khufu’s, made of over two million blocks. They were not built by slaves but by Egyptian peasants who paid their taxes to the Pharaoh through this labour, and were fed, clothed and housed by the Pharaoh.
Nearby sits the enigmatic Sphinx with the body of a lion and the face of a man wearing a royal head cloth, which workers may have based on King Khafre to guard his enormous funerary monument. Approximately a thousand years after the Sphinx was built it was covered in sand until a young prince had a dream in which the Sphinx told him that if he cleared the sand away, he would become Pharaoh. This story is told on the ‘Dream Stela’ that was placed between the Sphinx’s paws by King Tuthmose IV.
During your visit of the Sphinx you will have special exclusive access to enter Sphinx Valley and get up close with the paws of the Sphinx, something that is normally closed to the public and is only available by special approval.
Following an fabulous day of touring, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Cairo.
This evening, get frocked up and enjoy a Welcome Dinner at the hotel to celebrate the start of your extraordinary journey through Egypt.
Overnight Accommodation: The St. Regis Cairo, Astor Room Full Nile View
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Wine included
Day 3 – Wednesday 23: The Egyptian Museum, home to treasures of the boy-king Tutankhamun…
This morning tour 7,000 years of history at the Egyptian Museum, which houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian art in the world. Key features of the museum include the treasures of the boy-king Tutankhamun, including his gold mask, the solid gold sarcophagus that held his mummy and his beautiful throne.
Lunch today will be included at a local restaurant.
At the end of your tour, you are transferred back to your hotel with the remainder of the afternoon at leisure. This is the time to indulge in pool time or book into the beautiful spa to really put you into a holiday frame of mind.
Dinner at leisure this evening.
Overnight Accommodation: The St. Regis Cairo, Astor Room, Full Nile View
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 – Thursday 24: Cursing the Nile…
Today after breakfast we checkout and head to Luxor.We will be transferred by private vehicle to Cairo Airport in time for our onward flight to Luxor.
Upon arrival at Luxor Airport, you are transferred by air-conditioned vehicle to your awaiting cruise. Check-in to your five-star deluxe Nile cruise boat where you are welcomed by the reception staff.
The elegant Sanctuary Nile Adventurer has just 32 cabins, offering a luxurious yet relaxed cruise on the Nile. Decorated in a contemporary style, the ship’s design combines modern Egyptian culture with seven thousand years of heritage. Add gourmet cuisine and sightseeing experiences with the country’s most experienced Egyptologists, this is a taste of genuine 5-star luxury on a timeless river. The Sanctuary Nile Adventurer seamlessly blends contemporary Egyptian culture with authentic character, a blend of East and West. The extensive sun deck areas, with their elegant teak floors, include private cabanas around the pool area, the perfect spot for relaxing while taking in the scenery.
Enjoy a welcome Zaffa, with drums and flutes.
Lunch will be served on board in the main restaurant.
After lunch, you will visit the East Bank and explore Luxor Temple and the Temple of Karnak.
Afternoon tea will be served in the lounge.
This evening, you will be greeted by your Boat Manager while you enjoy freshly prepared canapés with some complimentary Egyptian wine and local beer, followed by a gourmet dinner menu.
Overnight Accommodation: Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Standard Cabin Bridge Deck
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – Friday 25: Cruising the Nile…
For those feeling adventurous start the day iwth an optional hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings as Dawn. This is a magical experience as you waft across the valley, with history and daily life opening up below you.
We meet with anyone who has not taken the optional balloon tour and begin the rest of your day with an in depth exploration of the Valley of the Kings.
You will also have the chance to visit at least one tomb in the Valley of the Queens and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut including entry into King Tut & Seti First toms.Visit the domed house where Howard Carter lived during his search for Tutankhamun’s tomb. Surrounded by a garden on what is otherwise a barren slope above the road from Deir al-Bahri to the Valley of the Kings, the house has been restored and decorated with pictures and tools of the excavation. On the way back to the river Nile, we will pass by the famed Colossi of Memnon.
Enjoy lunch on board the boat while the boat sails to Esna. You will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the beautiful boat. Join the group for an afternoon tea on board in the lounge or take the opportunity to sit on deck and watch the world float by.
Tonight, a delicious dinner is served by the award winning chefs onboard, followed by a movie night on board (quite often the original Death on the Nile!).
Overnight Accommodation: Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Standard Cabin Bridge Deck
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – Saturday 26: Cruising the Nile…
Enjoy breakfast on board while the boat sails to Edfu. After a delicious breakfast, visit the Temple of Edfu which is an Egyptian temple located on the west bank of the Nile. We will then return to our beautiful Nile Adventurer to sail to Kom Ombo. Lunch will be served on board while cruising to Kom Ombo. You will also have the chance to take part in an Egyptian cooking lesson.
Following afternoon tea in the lounge, visit the temple of Kom Ombo – dedicated to the crocodile- god Sobek. The temple stands at a bend in the Nile where, in ancient times, sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the riverbank. Return to your Nile Cruise boat ready for the sailing to Aswan.
Tonight’s entertainment will be an “Egyptian Night” costume party for all guests, with a chance to dress up in traditional Egyptian “galabeyyas”. Dinner will be a lavish buffet of Egyptian specialties.
Overnight Accommodation: Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Standard Cabin Bridge Deck
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 – Sunday 27: Cruising the Nile…
Enjoy a delicious breakfast on board while the boat sails its way back to Aswan.
You will have the opportunity to embark on a short motorboat ride to the majestic Philae Temple on the Island of Agilika. You will also have the chance to see the Granite Quarries, which supplied the ancient Egyptians with most of the hard stone used in pyramids and temples and still hold a huge unfinished obelisk.
You return to the Nile Adventurer to enjoy a delicious lunch. At the conclusion of lunch you can enjoy a fabulous once in a lifetime ride on a felucca (a typical Egyptian sail boat) around Elephantine Island, Lord Kitchener’s Botanical Gardens, and the Agha Khan Mausoleum (weather permitting, life jackets will be provided).
Once you have enjoy a glorious felucca ride it’s time now for a fabulous afternoon tea that will be served in the lounge while you enjoy the sounds of an Oud trio.
This evening we enjoy a luxurious farewell gala dinner, with white-gloved waiters serving gourmet cuisine. After dinner we will also get the chance to enjoy a fabulous dervish and belly dancer performance.
Overnight Accommodation: Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Standard Cabin Bridge Deck
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 – Monday 28: Day Trip to Abu Simbel…
A buffet breakfast will be served on board, before check out of the extraordinary Sanctuary Nile Explorer at 8am. Once we disembark from the boat we will be transferred by air-conditioned vehicle to Aswan Airport. We will then board a very short 40-minute flight from Aswan to the famous and captivating Abu Simbel.
The two temples of Ramses II at Abu Simbel are each fronted by colossal statues up to 20 meters high, and are famed as the most impressive monuments remaining of Ancient Egypt in modern times. Recently the temples were threatened by the waters of Lake Nasser, and with the help of a UNESCO campaign they were cut into blocks, raised piece by piece, and reassembled in a new position higher up the hillside.
After spending time exploring the enchanting Abu Simbel, board your short 40 minute return flight to Aswan. Once you land you will be greeted by your transfer driver and taken to your beautiful accomodation for the next 2 nights, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract. After an extensive renovation, redesigned by French interior designer Sybille de Margerie, Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan exudes its iconic heritage enriched with a contemporary design. Dive into the magnificent pool overlooking the Nile which links the two wings of the hotel. Indulge at the luxurious spa with a wide range of rejuvenating treatments. Embark on a voyage back to another century at the 1902 restaurant or relax at the terrace bar perched above the peaceful waters of the Nile.
Tonight you will have the evening to enjoy our luxurious hotel. You can perhaps try the luxurious spa, take a gorgeous swim, take a walk around the beautiful hotel grounds and enjoy dinner (at own expense) at one of the hotel restaurants.
Overnight Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 – Tuesday 29: The City of Aswan…
Meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel to start you day exploring the enchanting city of Aswan. With its gentle hospitality, this southern Egyptian city, a frontier town in ancient times, is a place to simply relax and enjoy an atmosphere that is as much African as it is Middle Eastern. The Nile is at its most beautiful here, flowing around huge granite rocks and palm tree-studded islands, so take a stroll along the riverfront to watch sailboats etch the sky. Walk to the souq in town to buy spices, scarves and baskets, When evening comes, enjoy a Nubian dance performance at the town’s cultural centre. Aswan’s name comes from the Nubian phrase assy wangibu (‘too much water’) and this is the place to learn about Nubian culture, as many Nubians resettled here after their lands were flooded during the building of the High Dam.
Nubian Villages: With the construction of the Aswan High Dam, 100,000 Nubians were displaced, many settling in Aswan, where you can still learn about their culture. Visit Nubian villages on Elephantine Island by taking a ferry or a sailboat. You will find friendly residents and brightly painted homes, often adorned with drawings proudly declaring the owner’s pilgrimage to Mecca.
At the end of your tour, you are transferred to your hotel. Tonight we have dinner at Aswan’s finest restaurant, the beautiful 1902. We don’t have to travel to far for this dinner as it is situated in our divine accommodation.
Overnight Accommodation: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (including half bottle of wine or local beer)
Day 10 – Wednesday 30: Aswan to Cairo we go…
Transfer by air-conditioned vehicle to Aswan Airport. Board your Egypt-Air flight to Cairo.
Upon arrival at Cairo Airport, you are transferred by air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel. Meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel to start your tour.
Experience the times of Roman rule in Egypt with a visit to the ruins of the Fortress of Babylon in Old Cairo. Originally built in AD 100 by the Emperor Trajan, the fortress was built to defend the frontiers of Trajan’s empire.
Tradition has it that the church of St. Sergius was built over a location in which Mary, Joseph and the infant Jesus rested on their journey in Egypt. Located inside the Roman fortress in Old Cairo, it is believed to have been built by Roman soldiers in the third or fourth centuries and later turned into a Coptic church by the Egyptians. Dedicated to two soldier-saints, Sergius and Bacchus, the church has been rebuilt and restored since medieval times, but it is still considered to be a model of early Coptic churches.
Next, visit the beautiful Coptic Museum, first completed in 1908 using property belonging to the Coptic Church in Egypt. It displays a wonderful collection of sculptures dating from Pre-Christian times up until the fifth Century AD, as well as bone carvings, frescoes, icons, relics, colorful textiles and more.
The Hanging Church is named so because it sits “suspended” on top of the Fortress of Babylon that the Romans built when they came to Egypt. Thought to originate in the seventh century, this church in basilica style was once the seat of the Coptic Patriarchate.
At the end of your tour, you are transferred to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Overnight Accommodation: The St. Regis Cairo
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 – Thursday 31 Museum and a Farewell dinner…
Meet your private guide to start your final full day visiting the first veritable museum of civilization in Egypt. The newly inaugurated NMEC is located on the archaeological site of El-Fustat in Old Cairo, overlooking the Ain El-Seera Lake. The museum showcases Egyptian civilization from prehistoric times to the present day, using a multidisciplinary approach that highlights the country’s comprehensive heritage. The collections are displayed in a core permanent exhibition of the principal achievements of Egyptian civilization, with six thematic galleries covering the Dawn of Civilization, The Nile, Writing, State and Society, Material Culture, Beliefs and Thinking and the Gallery of Royal Mummies
We stop a a divine local restaurant for lunch and on conclusion transfer back to our hotel.
Tonight is our final night on this fabulous tour of Egypt. Tonight we will celebrate a glorious trip over a Farewell dinner at the Hotel (including tea, coffee, mineral water and 3 glasses of local wine).
Overnight Accommodation: The St. Regis Cairo
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Wine
Day 12 – Friday 01: Time to go (maybe to Jordan?)…
Alas, it is time to leave this magical place. You will be transferred by air conditioned coach to Cairo Airport for your onward flight.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Cairo:
Sanctuary Nile Adventurer:
The elegant Sanctuary Nile Adventurer has just 32 cabins, offering a luxurious yet relaxed cruise on the Nile. Decorated in a contemporary style, the ship’s design combines modern Egyptian culture with seven thousand years of heritage. Add gourmet cuisine and sightseeing experiences with the country’s most experienced Egyptologists, this is a taste of genuine 5-star luxury on a timeless river. The Sanctuary Nile Adventurer seamlessly blends contemporary Egyptian culture with authentic character, a blend of East and West. The extensive sun deck areas, with their elegant teak floors, include private cabanas around the pool area, the perfect spot for relaxing while taking in the scenery.
