This 10-day Egypt itinerary offers a captivating journey through ancient wonders and vibrant experiences, starting with the iconic Giza Pyramids and Sphinx, and the Step Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara. Travelers will explore the surreal landscapes of the White and Black Deserts before taking a sleeper train to Aswan. There, the Philae Temple, the High Dam, and a scenic felucca ride await. A Nile cruise features visits to Abu Simbel, the Temple of Kom Ombo, and the Temple of Edfu, culminating in Luxor's Karnak and Luxor Temples, and the Valley of the Kings. The adventure continues to Hurghada for Red Sea diving, and concludes with Cairo's Egyptian Museum, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Wonders of Egypt: A 10-Day Expedition Through Time
Description
Highlights
- Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Saqqara's Step Pyramid exploration.
- White and Black Deserts surreal landscapes adventure.
- Aswan: Philae Temple, High Dam, and felucca ride.
- Nile cruise to Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, and Edfu.
- Luxor, Hurghada, and Cairo's cultural immersion.
Tour Plan
Your Egyptian adventure begins with a pick-up. You'll be taken to the Giza Plateau, where the iconic Pyramids stand majestically against the desert backdrop. Explore the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. Marvel at the enigmatic Sphinx, a mythical creature with a lion's body and a pharaoh's face.
Next, journey to Saqqara, an ancient burial ground that showcases the Step Pyramid of Djoser. This architectural marvel is considered to be one of the earliest large-scale stone constructions in Egypt.
A desert excursion to experience the unique landscapes of the White and Black Deserts. The Black Desert is characterized by its volcanic hills and black stones, while the White Desert is known for its surreal chalk formations shaped by wind erosion. These otherworldly landscapes offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Return to Cairo from the desert excursion. In the evening, you will board a comfortable sleeper train bound for Aswan. This overnight journey provides a unique way to travel and saves daytime travel.
Arrive in Aswan and begin your exploration with a visit to the Philae Temple. This beautiful temple complex was relocated to Agilkia Island after the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Next, visit the Aswan High Dam, a massive engineering project that controls the Nile's floods and generates hydroelectric power.
In the late afternoon, experience a traditional felucca ride on the Nile River. Enjoy the tranquility of the river and witness a breathtaking sunset over the water. Following the felucca ride, check in to your Nile cruise ship. Your 3-night, 4-day cruise adventure begins.
An early start takes you to Abu Simbel. Explore the magnificent temples of Ramses II and Nefertari, relocated to higher ground to preserve them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The colossal statues and intricate carvings are a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering and artistry.
Return to the cruise ship by early afternoon. The cruise departs from Aswan. Later in the day, the cruise will stop at Kom Ombo. Visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus. The temple's unique double design reflects this dual dedication.
Early in the morning, the cruise will arrive at Edfu. Visit the Temple of Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, this temple provides valuable insights into ancient Egyptian religious practices.
In the afternoon, the cruise arrives in Luxor. Begin your exploration of this ancient city with visits to the Karnak and Luxor Temples. Karnak Temple is a vast complex of temples, pylons, chapels, and other buildings, while Luxor Temple is known for its impressive columns and statues.
An optional early morning hot air balloon ride offers a unique perspective of Luxor's West Bank.
After checking out from the cruise, explore the West Bank of Luxor. Visit the Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of many New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun (visit to the tomb is usually an extra cost).
Continue to the Temple of Hatshepsut, a mortuary temple dedicated to the female pharaoh Hatshepsut. Finally, see the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
In the afternoon, travel to Hurghada, a resort city on the Red Sea coast.
Enjoy a day of diving in the Red Sea. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life that make this area a popular destination for divers and snorkelers.
Travel back to Cairo from Hurghada.
Your final day in Egypt is spent exploring Cairo's cultural treasures. Visit the Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
Then, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, one of the largest archaeological museums in the world.
Conclude your trip with a visit to Khan el-Khalili, a historic bazaar where you can shop for souvenirs, spices, and other traditional Egyptian goods. Finally, you will be transferred to Cairo International Airport for your departure.