Nile Valley Nubians and Red Sea Beach Holiday

Today begins one of the most iconic experiences in the world. After breakfast, we drive to Giza on Cairo’s outskirts, where your expert Egyptologist guide will lead you through the extraordinary complex of the Great Pyramids and the legendary Sphinx. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is an awe-inspiring feat of engineering — standing 500 feet tall with a base stretching 750 feet wide, constructed from giant stone blocks that have endured for thousands of years. Alongside it stand the slightly smaller pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure. Seeing these colossal structures rise from the desert landscape is a truly breathtaking moment. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can purchase one of the limited tickets available to descend inside the Great Pyramid itself.After the Pyramids, we visit the world-famous Egyptian Museum, home to the dazzling Tutankhamun exhibit and thousands of other priceless ancient artefacts. This evening, we transfer to the train station to board the overnight sleeper train to Aswan — a 12-hour journey through the Egyptian countryside. You’ll enjoy dinner in your private twin-berth compartment before the steward prepares your beds, offering a uniquely memorable way to travel south.
Overnight: Sleeper train
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Waking up to the landscapes of southern Egypt, we arrive in Aswan and transfer to our beautiful hotel overlooking the Nile. Set against lush green islands with elegant feluccas sailing past, the hotel’s location is among the most picturesque in all of Egypt. Aswan is a vibrant blend of African and Middle Eastern cultures, and a wander through its busy markets is an experience in itself.
This morning, we visit a traditional Nubian village — a wonderful opportunity to explore the colorful houses, warm hospitality, and age-old way of life of the Nubian people, descendants of an ancient civilization that once spanned southern Egypt and northern Sudan. Enjoy a traditional local lunch here as part of the experience.
In the afternoon, we board a scenic boat to reach the stunning Temple of Philae — a beautiful island complex dedicated to the goddess Isis, dramatically rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Your guide will bring its remarkable history to life. The evening is free to stroll the Corniche, browse the spice markets, or optionally take a camel ride across the Nile sands to St. Simeon’s Monastery.
Overnight: Aswan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

For those who have chosen the optional Abu Simbel excursion, today begins very early with a journey south to one of Egypt’s most spectacular ancient sites. The twin temples of Abu Simbel, carved directly into the mountainside by Ramesses II, are among the most impressive monuments in the ancient world. Seeing the colossal statues guarding the entrance at sunrise is an unforgettable experience.
Back in Aswan, the group rejoins for an afternoon felucca cruise on the Nile — a wonderfully peaceful and authentic way to experience Egypt’s greatest river. These traditional wooden sailing boats have carried travelers and goods along the Nile for centuries. As the felucca glides gently across the water, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding desert cliffs, green islands, and distant riverbanks. Your crew will prepare a simple, delicious meal on board as the sun begins to set over the water. The sounds of the Nile, the gentle breeze, and the timeless scenery create a deeply relaxing atmosphere that feels far removed from the bustle of the cities.
Overnight: Felucca on the Nile
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast on board the felucca, we bid farewell to our crew and stop at the magnificent Temple of Edfu — one of the best-preserved ancient temples in all of Egypt. Dedicated to the falcon god Horus, the temple is a stunning example of Ptolemaic architecture, its towering pylons and detailed relief carvings in remarkable condition. Your Egyptologist guide will illuminate the stories and rituals that once took place within its walls.
From Edfu, we continue north to Luxor — a city built upon the ancient ruins of Thebes, once the greatest city in the ancient world. To the west of the Nile lies the famed City of the Dead, with its rock-cut tombs and mortuary temples. To the east stand the majestic temples of Luxor and Karnak. Upon arriving in Luxor, we check in to our luxurious 5-star hotel on the banks of the Nile. Take the afternoon to relax by the pool or explore independently.
This evening, join us for a walking tour of Luxor Temple, dramatically illuminated against the night sky and surrounded by the lively buzz of the city. It’s a magical and unforgettable experience.
Overnight: Luxor
Meals: Breakfast

Today is one of the most richly rewarding days of the entire journey. We cross the Nile early to explore the legendary West Bank of Luxor, beginning with the Valley of the Kings — one of the most important archaeological sites on earth. Here, the dusty tombs of pharaohs are still yielding their ancient secrets. Your tour includes several decorated royal tombs, each one filled with vivid wall paintings and hieroglyphic texts. We also visit the extraordinary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs, the artisan village of Deir El-Medina, and the colossal twin statues known as the Colossi of Memnon. For those seeking something extra special, an optional hot air balloon flight at sunrise over the West Bank offers breathtaking panoramic views.
After lunch, we tour the vast Karnak Temple complex — the largest ancient religious site in the world. Walking through sphinx-lined avenues and towering pylons, you’ll enter the legendary Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 massive columns covered in intricate carvings. The sheer scale of the complex is truly humbling, and your guide’s expert commentary will transform it into a living, breathing story of ancient power.
Overnight: Luxor
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a leisurely morning in Luxor, we leave the ancient wonders of the Nile Valley behind and head east toward the shimmering Red Sea. The drive takes you through dramatic desert landscapes before the coastline comes into view — a vivid contrast of golden sands and brilliant turquoise water. Upon arriving in Hurghada, we check in to a stunning 5-star beachfront resort, where the pace of the trip shifts from exploration to relaxation.
Your stay here is on a soft all-inclusive basis, meaning all meals, soft drinks, and snacks are included throughout your time at the resort. With pools, restaurants, bars, and a beautiful private beach at your disposal, the resort is the perfect place to unwind after days of sightseeing. Hurghada is world-renowned for the clarity of its waters and the extraordinary richness of its marine life, making it one of the finest diving and snorkeling destinations anywhere on the planet. Whether you prefer to lounge in the sun with a cool drink in hand or dive straight into the Red Sea, this is your time to completely relax and recharge.
Overnight: Hurghada Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is entirely your own to enjoy the spectacular Red Sea at your leisure. Hurghada is internationally celebrated as one of the world’s great diving and snorkeling destinations, with its warm, clear waters teeming with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, rays, and much more. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a complete beginner, there are operators nearby who can arrange everything from introductory dives to full-day excursions.
For those seeking more adventure on the water or land, the options are plentiful — windsurfing, kite surfing, glass-bottomed submarine tours, sea fishing trips, quad biking across the desert, or a leisurely camel ride along the shore. Our local representative in Hurghada is on hand all day to help you book any activity or arrange anything you need.
If complete relaxation is more your style, the resort’s pools and beach provide the ideal setting to simply soak up the Egyptian sunshine with a good book and a cold drink. Hurghada’s marina and old town are also well worth a wander, with excellent restaurants, cafes, and shops to discover. It’s your day — make it exactly what you want it to be.
Overnight: Hurghada Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Another glorious day on the Red Sea coast awaits, entirely at your own pace. By now you may have found your favorite spot on the beach, a go-to café in the marina, or an activity you’d love to try again — and today is the perfect opportunity to do exactly that. The Red Sea consistently offers some of the finest snorkeling and scuba diving in the world, and with so many species of marine life thriving in these clear, warm waters, every dive or snorkel reveals something new and extraordinary.
If you haven’t yet tried some of the more adventurous activities Hurghada has to offer, today is your chance. Kite surfing, windsurfing, parasailing, sea fishing, and desert quad biking are all available and easily arranged through our local representative, who remains on hand to help with any bookings or requests. Alternatively, take the time to explore the town’s vibrant local markets and souvenir shops, enjoy a long lunch by the water, or simply linger by the pool and let the warmth of the Egyptian sun do its work. Whatever you choose, savor every moment of this beautiful coastal paradise.
Overnight: Hurghada Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your final full day on the Red Sea coast has arrived, and it’s yours to spend however you choose. Whether that means one last snorkeling session over a coral reef, a final sunrise walk along the beach, a relaxing afternoon by the pool, or squeezing in an activity you’ve been meaning to try, make the most of every moment in this beautiful setting. Hurghada’s warm weather, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere make it the ideal place to end the more active portion of your Egyptian journey.
Our local representative is still on hand to assist with any last-minute arrangements, from booking a water sport to recommending a restaurant for a special farewell dinner. If you’ve yet to explore the marina area or the old town, an afternoon stroll through the cafes, boutiques, and local craft shops makes for a lovely way to spend a few hours. Pick up any remaining souvenirs, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch by the harbor, and take a few quiet moments to reflect on the extraordinary experiences this trip has offered. Tomorrow, the road leads back to Cairo for the final chapter of your Egyptian adventure.
Overnight: Hurghada Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning we depart Hurghada and make the drive back across the desert to Cairo — a journey of approximately six hours, with stunning scenery along the way. For those who prefer a faster return, an upgrade to a domestic flight is available upon request. On arrival, we check in to a centrally located 5-star hotel in the heart of the city.
In the late afternoon, we embark on a guided walking tour through the atmospheric back streets and bazaars of Old Cairo — one of the most immersive urban experiences Egypt has to offer. Beginning at the ancient Bab al-Futuh gateway, we wind through a series of streets each dedicated to a different trade: metalwork, spices, pottery, textiles, and jewelry. The sensory experience is extraordinary — aromas, colors, sounds, and craftsmanship at every turn. We’ll pause for refreshments along the way, with time to enjoy a glass of sweet mint tea, before arriving at the famous Khan el-Khalili bazaar. This is a wonderful final opportunity to browse for souvenirs, gifts, and mementos of your unforgettable time in Egypt, with our guide on hand throughout.
Overnight: Cairo
Meals: Breakfast

Today marks the final chapter of your Egyptian adventure. After a leisurely breakfast, the morning is free for you to spend as you wish — whether that means a little last-minute shopping, a quiet stroll through a neighborhood you haven’t yet explored, or simply savoring a final coffee while watching Cairo come to life around you.
If you have an afternoon or evening departure, there are several excellent optional excursions available to fill your remaining hours. A half-day tour of Coptic Cairo and the historic Citadel offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s layered history, while a visit to the ancient sites of Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis traces the fascinating evolution of pyramid-building that eventually led to the iconic structures at Giza. Those with a spirit for the unusual might consider a trip into the desert to visit the remarkable Valley of the Whales at Wadi Rayan — a UNESCO World Heritage Site unlike anything else in Egypt.
When the time comes, our staff will transfer you to the airport for your onward flight home. We hope this journey through Egypt has filled you with memories, wonder, and a deep appreciation for one of the world’s greatest civilizations.
Meals: Breakfast