Land of Pharaohs
Land of Pharaohs
Land of Pharaohs
11 Days Starting and ending in Cairo, Egypt
Visiting: Cairo, Luxor, Edfu, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Alexandria
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IndTur31
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 6
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the "Land of Pharaohs" and explore the wonders of ancient Egypt. Admire the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx, cruise along the majestic Nile River for five days, and uncover the secrets of the Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. Visit the awe-inspiring temples of Ramses and Queen Nefertari, and delve into the rich history of Alexandria at the National Museum. Travel in comfort with private air-conditioned transfers and domestic flights, and enjoy luxurious accommodations with daily breakfast and full board on the cruise. This cultural tour offers an immersive experience into Egypt's glorious past.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Cairo (Arrival)
Location: Cairo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Welcome to Cairo! Cairo, named Al-Qahirah in Arabic, is not only one of Africas largest cities (with a population of 17 million) but the political and cultural center of the Arab World. The citys old quarters retain their ancient charm with many streets still relevant to descriptions given to them by medieval chroniclers. Modern Cairos architecture is distinguished by Ottoman and later European influences, particularly in commercial architecture as the citys population boomed during the 19th century. Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Overnight in Cairo
Day 2: Cairo (B/-/-)
Location: Cairo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the day at the Giza Plateau home of Egypts signature attractions: The Great Pyramids, proclaimed by the Greeks to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. A single pyramid is built from 2,300,000 blocks, each weighing an average of two and one–half tons. In the face of such immensity, one cannot help but feel the wonder and awe which so many writers and artists have sought to convey over the centuries. This morning, see the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the timeless Great Sphinx of Giza, dating from the time of Chephren (2620 BC). Sculpted from natural yellowish limestone and standing 65 feet high and 187 feet long, this unforgettable statue combines the head of a Pharaoh with a lions body. This afternoon you will visit the Pyramids of Khafra and Menkaura, explore the remains of their mortuary temples, the Tombs of the Noblemen and an ancient limestone quarry.
Overnight in Cairo
Day 3: Cairo (B/-/-)
Location: Cairo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, you will visit the world-renowned Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. Accompanied by your certified Egyptologist, you will stroll through the halls highlighting each historical period of this historic land. Admire the worlds greatest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the golden treasures of Tutankhamuns tomb (not included). From there you will continue to Sakkara; one of the most exciting historical and archaeological areas in all of Egypt, situated about 12 miles southwest of Cairo. The site is dominated by the famous step pyramid of King Zoser. It was the first pyramid built in ancient Egypt, preceding those at Giza by many centuries. It is the work of the famous pharaonic architect, Imhotep.
Overnight in Cairo
Day 4: Luxor - Abydos - Dendara - Luxor (B/-/-)
Location: Luxor
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Early you transfer to Cairo International Airport for a flight to Luxor. Upon arrival in Luxor, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. From there you will head out to explore this ancient city, visiting two of Egypts most spectacular and under-visited sites — Abydos and Dendara. At Abydos, closely associated with the legend of Osiris, you will see the seven sanctuaries temple. Abydos occupies an important place in the religious history of Pharaonic Egypt. By the end of the Old Kingdom, its local god, Osiris, was the most prominent and popular of the Egyptian gods, since he was considered the god of the afterlife. According to this popular tradition, Osiris head was buried in Abydos. Here, Seti I and his son Ramses II built a beautiful temple around 1300 BC. In the afternoon you will continue to the Ptolemaic Temple of Goddess Hathor in Denderah. This wonderfully preserved temple complex is a rare sight to behold, complete with a massive stone roof, dark chambers, underground passages, and towering columns inscribed with hieroglyphs. The main Temple of Hathor is almost intact. Hathor was the goddess of love, often represented by a cow or a woman with a cows head. She was the beneficent deity of maternal and family love, of beauty and light; the Greeks associated her with Aphrodite.
Overnight in Luxor
Day 5: Luxor (Embarkation) (B/L/D)
Location: Luxor
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Late this morning you will transfer to your cruise ship on the Nile; your floating hotel for the next five days. Enjoy lunch on board before you visit Karnak Temple, erected in 1928 BC as a small shrine dedicated to Amun, the god of Thebes. The Temple consists of three main temples, smaller enclosed temples, and several outer temples — all constructed over 1300 years. The three main temples of Mut, Monthu, and Amun are enclosed with enormous brick walls, with the temple of Amun at the center. Karnak is the largest temple in Egypt and one of the oldest temple compounds on earth. Visit Luxor Museum that is renowned as one of the thoughtfully assembled displays of antiquities in Egypt. Most of its exhibits come from temples and other constructions in the Luxor area. Many festivals were celebrated in Thebes. The Temple of Luxor was the center of the most important one; the Opet Festival. Built largely by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, the temple served as a setting for the rituals of the festival, which was held to reconcile the human aspect of the ruler with his divine office. The procession of images of the current royal family began at Karnak and ended at Luxor Temple.
Overnight on-board cruise
Day 6: Luxor - Esna (B/L/D)
Location: Luxor
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you will cross the newly constructed Luxor Bridge to visit the Valley of the Kings, which includes the tombs of the Theban rulers, Seti I and Tutankhamen. The Valley of the Kings is home to many pharaonic tombs of the New Kingdom, including those of King Tutankhamun and Ramses the Great. Each king's formal name and title are inscribed in his tomb, which is also adorned with his images and statues. Most of the tombs were cut into the limestone following a similar pattern: three corridors, an antechamber, and a sunken sarcophagus chamber. After lunch tour the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, the only woman Pharaoh to rule ancient Egypt. The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut of the 18th dynasty was built just north of the Middle Kingdom temple of Mentuhotep Nebhepetre, amid the bay of cliffs known as Deir El-Bahri. In ancient times the temple was called Djeser-djeseru, meaning the sacred of sacred. The pharaoh chose to build her temple in a valley sacred to the Theban Goddess of the west, on a direct axis with Karnak Temple of Amun on the East Bank. End your tour with a panoramic stop at the Colossi of Amenhotep III, named the colossi of Memnon by the Greeks.
Overnight on-board cruise
Day 7: Esna - Edfu - Kom Ombo (B/L/D)
Location: Edfu
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning after breakfast you will disembark at Edfu. A \"caleche\" ride will take you through the town to the Temple of Horus, the Falcon God. The Temple of Horus is the best-preserved ancient temple in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak. Built from sandstone blocks, the huge Ptolemaic temple has a massive entrance pylon covered with traditional scenes of the king smiting his enemies before Horus. Continue sailing most of the day before arrival at Kom Ombo; enjoy a short walk to the twin Temples of Sobek and Horus. One is dedicated to the crocodile god, Sobek, and the other to the falcon god, Horus the Elder. There are clear depictions of ancient medical instruments on one wall. Kom Ombo's Greco-Roman style Temple of Sobek built for the Crocodile God stands serenely on a hilltop; the site offers an incredible view of the Nile. In ancient times, sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the riverbank near here, and hundreds of mummified crocodiles were found in the area.
Overnight onboard the cruise
Day 8: Kom Ombo - Aswan (B/L/D)
Location: Aswan
Accommodation Name: cruise ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy breakfast onboard the cruise in Aswan, Egypts southernmost city. South of here lies the flooded lands of Nubia, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Just north of the border between Egypt and Sudan lies Aswan High Dam, a huge rock-filled dam that captures the world's longest river, the Nile, in the world's largest artificial reservoir, Lake Nasser. The dam, known as “Sadd El-Aali” in Arabic, was completed in 1970 after 10 years of work. Then, you will continue to the granite quarries, which supplied the ancient Egyptians with most of the hard stones used in their pyramids and temples. Invoke the healing powers of the goddess Isis with a visit to the Temple of Philae and the delightful Temple of Isis. Enjoy a short trip on a motorboat to Philae Temple, where you will see a magnificent vista of the island of Agilika before landing at what would have been the ancient quay on the south side. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Isis and has many legends connected to it. The best-known legend tells the story of how Isis found the heart of Osiris here after his murder by his brother Seth. Ancient Nubia was known to the pharaohs as the “Land of Gold,” and its wealth and lands were eventually incorporated into Egypt around 1500 BC.
Overnight onboard the cruise
Day 9: Aswan (Disembarkation) - Abu Simbel - Cairo (B/-/-)
Location: Abu Simbel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning you will transfer to Aswan Airport to board a flight to Abu Simbel via Aswan. Upon arrival in Abu Simbel, you will be transferred to the temple site. Visit the Temple of Ramses and Temple of Queen Nefertari. Not only are these two temples among the most magnificent monuments in the world, but their removal and reconstruction became a historic event itself. When the temples (280 km from Aswan) were threatened by submersion in Lake Nasser the two temples that Rameses II dedicated to Re-Harakhte, and that of his wife, Nefertari, dedicated to Hathor were moved to their new location. After touring you will be transferred back to the airport for a short flight back to Cairo. Once you arrive in Cairo you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Cairo
Day 10: Cairo - Alexandria - Cairo (B/L/-)
Location: Alexandria
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Alexandria widely known as the Pearl of the Mediterranean. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria has historically been a place of learning. The ancient city has attracted poets and writers for thousands of years to its famous seaside library the “Bibliotheca Alexandrina”. Alexandria is also home to the Pharos Lighthouse; one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Largely because of its unique cosmopolitan roots, Alexandria differs widely from the rest of the country — especially Cairo. Explore the Alexandria National Museum featuring over 1800 archaeological pieces that narrate the Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, Coptic, Islamic, and modern history of Egypt. One display features a piece picked up from the seabed at Abu Kir Bay and the eastern harbor near the Qaitbay Citadel. The Alexandria Museum is number 27 in the series of historic and archaeological museums across Egypt. You will enjoy a panoramic view of Fort Qaitbay, built in the 1480s by Sultan Qaitbey, at the site of Alexandria's ancient lighthouse. Remnants of the lighthouse can be seen in the construction of the old fort. One of the Seven Wonders of The Ancient World, the lighthouse was an astonishing 125 meters high, containing some 300 rooms for workers. Then visit the new Alexandria Library built-in 2002 to commemorate the great library of the 3rd Century BC which formed the cornerstone of ancient intellectual life. Shaped like a massive, partly hidden, tilted disc rising from the Mediterranean, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina evokes the image of a rising sun, a source of light and enlightenment. Aside from a library displaying books on 7 levels that form a “pyramid of knowledge,” the cultural complex also includes other specialized libraries, museums, exhibition areas, education centers, and an international conference center. From there you will visit the El Montazah Gardens — a 114-acre complex that belonged to the family of Mohamed Ali, who ruled Egypt from the mid-19th century until 1952. It is surrounded by great walls from the south, east, and west, a beach to the north. The complex is adorned with beautiful gardens and palm trees, making it an ideal stop in Alexandria. The construction was started in 1892 by King Abbas II, who built a large palace inside the complex called the Salamlek. In 1932, King Fuad built a larger palace and called it the Haramlik. His son, King Farouk, built a bridge to the sea to act as a waterfront. The rest of the 115 acres consists of nothing but beautiful gardens. Palm trees and gazelles cover the area. This is a wonderful spot to bask in the beauty of Alexandria. A special seafood lunch will be provided on the bay of Abukir, the scene of the naval battle between Nelson and Napoleon. Early this evening you will return to Cairo.
Note: During the full-day tour the clients will visit according to whats available on the day of the visit.
Overnight in Cairo
Day 11: Cairo (Departure) - (B/-/-)
Location: Cairo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will be transferred to Cairo International Airport for your onward flight.
What's Included
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06 Nights accommodation on twin sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar
Enjoy 6 nights in superior hotels on a twin-sharing basis.
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04 Nights accommodation on twin sharing basis at the listed cruise ship or similar
Enjoy 4 nights aboard a luxurious cruise ship along the Nile.
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Daily breakfast
Daily breakfast is included during your stay.
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Full board meal plan aboard a cruise
Full board meal plan is provided aboard the cruise.
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Meet and greet at Cairo airport
You will be met and greeted at Cairo airport upon arrival.
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Arrival & departure airport transfers
Arrival and departure airport transfers are included.
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Transportation in private AC car
Travel in comfort with private air-conditioned car transfers.
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Service of English-speaking guide
An English-speaking guide will be at your service.
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Sightseeing as per the itinerary
Sightseeing tours as per the itinerary are included.
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Entrance fees as per the itinerary
Entrance fees to various attractions as per the itinerary are included.
What's Not Included
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Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities
Items of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Optional tours
Optional tours are not included.
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Visa fees if applicable
Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.
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Arrival & departure transfers for land only passengers
Arrival and departure transfers for land-only passengers are not included.
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Any item not mentioned as included
Any item not specifically mentioned as included is excluded.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with private air-conditioned car transfers, domestic flights between Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, and a 5-day cruise along the Nile.
Accommodation
Enjoy 6 nights in superior hotels on a twin-sharing basis and 4 nights aboard a luxurious cruise ship along the Nile, with daily breakfast and full board meal plans on the cruise.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes private air-conditioned car transfers, domestic flights between Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, and a 5-day cruise along the Nile.
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What kind of accommodation is included in the tour?
The tour includes 6 nights in superior hotels on a twin-sharing basis and 4 nights aboard a luxurious cruise ship along the Nile, with daily breakfast and full board meal plans on the cruise.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, daily breakfast is included, and a full board meal plan is provided aboard the cruise.
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Will there be a guide during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes the service of an English-speaking guide.
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Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?
Yes, entrance fees as per the itinerary are included in the tour price.
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What are some of the key attractions visited during the tour?
Key attractions include the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, the Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Ramses, the Temple of Queen Nefertari, and the ancient city of Alexandria.
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Is there a cruise included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a 5-day cruise along the Nile River.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, arrival and departure airport transfers are included.
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Are there any additional costs not included in the tour package?
Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities, travel insurance, optional tours, visa fees if applicable, and arrival and departure transfers for land-only passengers are not included.
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What is the itinerary for the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will arrive in Cairo, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.
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If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?
You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.
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Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?
In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.
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Low Deposit
Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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