Egypt Experience
Trip Details
- Duration: 12 day(s)
- Visited Areas: Egypt
Explore the best of the Land of the Pharaohs on this exciting trip. Immerse yourself in the history, grandeur and culture of this ancient land on a journey from Cairo to the fascinating cities of Alexandria, Aswan and Luxor. For action and adventure that doesn't travel too far out of the comfort zone, this is the perfect introduction to Egypt.
Itinerary
Days 1-2 Cairo
Colourful Cairo overflows with character and there is plenty of time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the majestic Sphinx and a surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza. Wander the halls of the Egyptian Museum, taking in the thousands of ancient treasures on display. The masses of gleaming artefacts recovered from the tomb of Tutankhamun are an impressive sight to behold - from gold jewellery to gloves - this pharaoh was certainly prepared for the afterlife!
Days 3-4 Alexandria
The second largest city in Egypt, Alexandria has grown up around its port. Head underground and delve into the mysteries of the Kom ash-Shuqqafa catacombs. This Roman burial site is the largest of its kind in Egypt and was discovered, quite accidentally, by a hapless donkey. The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, built to hold eight million books, is a library like no other and an inspirational place to visit. Return to Cairo for an overnight train journey.
Day 5 Aswan
Watch an amber sunset over the Nile from a gliding felucca. Use free time to learn about Nubian culture at the excellent museum or wander the market to pick up a souvenir.
Days 6-8 Nile Cruise
Take a flight to the impressive Abu Simbel temples, the ancient entrance to Egypt.
Embark on a cruise down the mighty Nile River, stopping along the way to explore the ancient temple sites of Kom Ombo and Edfu. In between seeing the sites, relax on board the boat, take in the scenery and reflect on this special journey.
Days 9-10 Luxor
On arrival in Luxor, wander through the fascinating Temples of Karnak, the biggest and most important complex of its time. At night, take a moonlight stroll around the Luxor Temple. The next day, discover the jewels of ancient Thebes, the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the royal burial sites in the Valley of the Kings. Use free time in the afternoon to explore more of Luxor independently - the Mummification Museum reveals much about the customs of ancient Egyptians and their beliefs about the afterlife.
Days 11-12 Cairo
Plunge into the bustle of the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. If the crowds are too much, head out to the peaceful Coptic Christian sector of the city before a final farewell dinner at a local cafe or restaurant.