2024 - Nubian Discovery Tour

Upon your arrival, our team will greet you at the airport, help with visa procedures and luggage handling, and accompany you to your hotel to begin your journey. They'll assist in settling you in, familiarize you with the surroundings, and provide details about tomorrow's plans. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure. If you arrive early, consider experiencing an evening dinner cruise along the Nile or attending a stunning sound and light show at the pyramids-both easily arranged upon your arrival.

Our journey through Egypt commences with a visit to the Egyptian Museum in central Cairo, renowned for its impressive Tutankhamun exhibit and extensive collection of ancient artifacts. Accompanied by our knowledgeable Egyptologist guides, this tour offers insights into Egypt's rich history and culture. Following the museum exploration, we venture to Giza on the outskirts of Cairo to marvel at the Sphinx and the iconic pyramids. The Great Pyramid of Khufu stands as a testament to ancient architectural marvels. Climbing inside the pyramids is an option available to visitors, offering a unique perspective into their grandeur.
As the day concludes, we make our way to the station for an overnight sleeper train journey to Aswan, an approximately 12-hours.

Upon arrival in Aswan, we transfer to our hotel, overlooking the Nile River, where traditional feluccas glide across its waters. Aswan, a melting pot of African and Middle Eastern cultures, offers a vibrant atmosphere through its bustling markets. Venturing into a local Nubian village, we gain insights into the Nubian way of life, characterized by simplicity and resilience. A delectable traditional lunch awaits us, reflecting the region's culinary traditions. Our afternoon unfolds with a visit to the Temple of Philae, an island sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis. Once submerged by rising waters, the temple was meticulously relocated, preserving its architectural splendor.
As evening descends, we explore Aswan's vibrant spice and general markets, stroll along the Corniche, or embark on an optional camel ride through the sands to St. Simeon's monastery.

Early risers can embark on an optional excursion to Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its majestic temples built by Ramses II. The aim is to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the rising sun casting its golden glow upon these ancient monuments. Those opting to stay in Aswan can explore the vibrant markets, stroll along the Corniche, or visit the Nubian Museum.
As lunchtime approaches, we board our traditional Nile felucca, embarking on a leisurely afternoon sail down the tranquil waters of the Nile River. We immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, observing the rhythms of rural Egyptian life unfolding along the riverbanks. Our expert Nubian crew expertly navigates the felucca, entertaining us with their stories and preparing delectable meals for our enjoyment. Throughout the day, our separate facilities boat will rendezvous with us, providing welcome restrooms, showers, and a hygienic kitchen.
As dusk descends, we settle onto the felucca's deck, our sleeping arrangements prepared with mattresses, blankets, and mosquito nets. This unique experience offers a glimpse into the simple yet enchanting lifestyle of those who live along the Nile.

Following a delightful breakfast aboard the felucca, we bid farewell to our Nubian crew, embarking on our northbound journey from Aswan to Edfu to visit the huge Temple of Horus. As we approach Luxor, a city steeped in ancient history, we are greeted by an unparalleled concentration of ancient wonders. Across the Nile lies the grand City of the Dead, dotted with mortuary temples and rock-hewn tombs, while to the east, the imposing Temples of Luxor and Karnak stand as testaments to Egypt's ancient grandeur.
As the sun begins its descent, we embark on an optional walking tour of the smaller Luxor Temple, its intricate carvings and towering obelisks illuminated by the soft glow of evening lights. Emerging from the temple, we carry with us a profound sense of awe and admiration for the architectural and cultural achievements of ancient Egypt. The Luxor Temple, with its enchanting blend of light and shadow, serves as a fitting finale to our Egyptian adventure.

The day begins with an early Nile crossing for our Luxor West Bank exploration. We delve into the Valley of the Kings, a significant archaeological site where the enigmatic tombs of Pharaohs continue to unveil mysteries, showcasing the essence of ancient Egypt. Our itinerary covers various Pharaonic tombs, Queen Hatshepsut's temples, Medinat Habu, and the grand Colossi of Memnon.
An optional early morning sunrise hot air balloon flight is available for those seeking an aerial perspective of the west bank at sunrise.
Following this, the afternoon is yours to relax in the amenities of a 5-star Nile-side hotel. Alternatively, indulge in further exploration by discovering Luxor's markets, visiting the mummification museum, embarking on a felucca trip to Banana Island, or diving deeper into Egypt's history with additional optional sightseeing. Excursions to the Ramesseum, Workers Village, and the Valley of the Queens, facilitated by your guide, can be arranged for a supplemental fee to cover transport, entry fees, and the guide's service.

After a leisurely morning, we'll embark on an afternoon journey to the sprawling temple complex of Karnak. This vast sanctuary was connected to Luxor by an avenue lined with majestic sphinxes, and a canal linked it to the Nile. Stepping through the immense pylon entrance, we enter the expansive courtyard, where three chapels stand in reverence to the gods Amun, Khonsu, and Mut. As we venture further into the temple complex, we are awestruck by the Hypostyle Hall, a colossal space supported by 134 towering columns. Each column is etched with scenes of gods and pharaohs, their stories immortalized in stone.
As the sun begins to set, we bid farewell to Karnak, its grandeur etched in our minds. Our journey then takes us to the station, where we board the overnight sleeper train, embarking on a journey back to Cairo, approximately 9 hours.

Upon our return to Cairo this morning, we transfer to our accommodation, granting you most of the day to explore Cairo as per your preference or engage in optional tours. Choices abound, including a city tour encompassing Coptic Cairo, the Citadel, and Mohamed Ali Mosque, or a half-day excursion to Saqqara, Dashour, and Memphis-sites that unveil the pyramid's historical evolution. For a more extensive adventure, an additional option involves a day trip to the desert outskirts of Cairo to witness the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Valley of the Whales at Wadi Rayan.
Later in the afternoon, we embark on a guided walk through central Cairo's labyrinthine backstreets and bustling bazaars. Meandering through the monumental Bab al-Futuh gateway, we explore alleyways dedicated to various crafts like metalwork, spices, pottery, fabrics, jewelry, and more, gradually arriving at the vibrant Khan-el-Khalili bazaar. Amidst this bustling atmosphere, we take a break to savor tea, a shisha pipe, and perhaps indulge in an early dinner featuring Egypt's unofficial national delight, Kushari, before returning to our hotel.

Your schedule is open today for any final sightseeing or shopping before we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.