Ancient Exploration from the Pyramids to Luxor 2027

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30 P.M. to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into Cairo International Airport (CAI).

Get ready for an enchanting journey through time as you embark on an exploration of the mystical Giza plateau. In the morning, a short transfer will whisk you away to the plateau, where the awe-inspiring Pyramids await your discovery.

• Pyramids of Giza Tour

  Your adventure begins with an early pick-up from the hotel. Following a 30-minute transfer, you'll arrive at the iconic Giza Plateau, where time seems to stand still. Stepping out of the vehicle, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking majesty of the Pyramids, instantly captivated by their mystique and historical significance as marvelous pharaonic tombs. You'll have ample time to explore these ancient structures that have towered for over 4500 years. While you wander around the three largest Pyramids, capturing countless photos, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with the fascinating history and mysteries behind these imposing structures. The exploration will last about 2 hours, covering approximately 1 to 1.5 miles over flat terrain. Please note that restrooms are available at the gate of the pyramids, and it's recommended tipping for the housekeeping staff.

  08:30· 120 min· Cairo
• The Sphinx Visit

  Just 0.5 miles from the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx of Giza is a quick 10-minute walk. Guided by your expert, delve into the details of this colossal 4,500-year-old limestone statue, stretching 240 feet in length and towering 66 feet tall. As one of the world’s largest and most recognizable relics of ancient Egypt, take your time to absorb the mystical aura of this awe-inspiring site. After the Sphinx exploration, enjoy some free time for lunch in the Pyramids' surroundings. Discover restaurants with incredible flavors, some boasting impressive views of the Pyramids. Following lunch, a 45-minute transfer will return you to Cairo for a visit to one of the world's foremost museums.

  30:00· 60 min· Cairo
• Grand Egyptian Museum Tour

  Back in the heart of Cairo, your journey through time continues with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of antiquities, that serves as a captivating introduction to Egypt's rich legacy. Guided by an expert, you'll delve into the fascinating dynastic history, exploring a vast array of gleaming artifacts recovered from Tutankhamun's tomb. From exquisite jewelry to the iconic golden death mask and gilded sarcophagi, witness the remarkable preparations for this pharaoh's afterlife. Lasting approximately 2.5 hours, the tour concludes with a brief 10-minute transfer back to the hotel, allowing leisure time for the rest of the day.

  01:00· 180 min· Cairo

A vibrant day awaits as you continue to explore the best of Egypt. In the morning, you'll journey south of Cairo to discover Saqqara, a vast ancient burial ground that served as a necropolis for the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis. After exploring the pyramids and legacy of Saqqara, a brief transfer will take you to the Memphis Outdoor Museum, allowing you to reflect on what life was like in the ancient Egyptian city. Then you'll transfer back to the hotel with the afternoon at your leisure. For this adventure, it's recommended to wear comfortable footwear and attire. To respect local customs, please dress modestly, avoiding exposure of your back and shoulders. Don't forget essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay refreshed and hydrated throughout the day.

• Saqqara Archaeological Tour

  Depart from the hotel after breakfast for a one-hour transfer to the southern outskirts of modern-day Cairo, marking the commencement of your exploration of Saqqara. Guided by an expert, delve into the depths of this expansive and historically significant archaeological site, renowned as one of ancient Egypt's paramount burial grounds and serving as a necropolis for the ancient capital city of Memphis. Your tour will include an outside visit to the imposing Pyramid of Djoser, a monumental structure constructed during the 27th century BCE and recognized as one of the earliest large-scale cut-stone constructions. The tour encompasses other notable sites such as the Pyramid of Unas, Pyramid of Teti, Mastabas of Kagemni and Ti. Lasting approximately 3 hours and covering approximately 1.5 miles on foot, this comprehensive exploration offers a deep insight into the rich history and architecture of Saqqara. Following this, a transfer will take you to the Memphis Outdoor Museum. Please be advised that restrooms are available at the Saqqara gate, and it's recommended to express gratitude through tipping for the housekeeping staff.

  08:30· 90 min
• Step Pyramid of Zoser

  The Step Pyramid of Zoser which is the oldest known pyramid dating to 2700 BC. Lose your mind thinking about the enormous size of these sarcophagi, and how the ancient Egyptians managed to bring them here! Then you will have a chance to enter The Step Pyramid of Zoser!

  08:00· 30 min· Saqqara
• Memphis Open-Air Museum Visit

  Following the Saqqara visit, a one-hour transfer will take you to Memphis, strategically situated at the center of the Nile's western floodplain. Renowned as the first capital of Ancient Egypt, Memphis held immense significance as a pivotal political, cultural, and economic hub. In Memphis, you'll explore an Open-Air Museum, an archaeological site that meticulously displays a rich collection of artifacts and monuments from the ancient city. Highlights include the colossal limestone statue of Pharaoh Ramesses II, the Alabaster Sphinx, and a diverse array of statues and artifacts. This guided tour offers a profound insight into the historical importance of Memphis in ancient Egyptian civilization. Around midday, a 1 hour and 10 minutes drive will bring you back to the hotel. Once there, you'll have free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure.

  10:30· 60 min· Cairo

In the morning, take a domestic flight to Luxor. Upon arriving, you will transfer to the illustrious Karnak Temple, a temple complex held in high regard by ancient Egyptians. Following this, you'll be transported to your hotel to settle in, with free time for lunch on your own. In the afternoon, a brief transfer will take you to the magnificent Luxor Temple, adorned with the intriguing Sphinx Avenue. Your return to the hotel is planned for the evening, leaving the rest of the night at your leisure for dinner. For this day, it's advisable to wear comfortable footwear and attire. In adherence to local customs, please opt for modest dressing, avoiding exposure of your back and shoulders. Remember essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and water to ensure you stay refreshed and hydrated throughout the day.

• Karnak Temple Tour

  Upon your arrival in Luxor, a swift 30-minute transfer will take you to the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple, renowned as one of the most impressive temple complexes globally, and a testament to ancient Egyptian architectural brilliance. This monumental structure, dedicated to the god Amun, unfolded over an astonishing period of approximately 2000 years. Guided by a professional, you'll delve into the labyrinthine halls, towering columns, majestic obelisks, and statues that adorn the temple grounds. A sacred lake, likely utilized for ritualistic practices and ceremonial cleansings, adds an extra layer of intrigue. The sheer size, historical significance, and architectural grandeur make Karnak Temple an indispensable destination for those captivated by ancient Egyptian history and culture. You'll have roughly 2 hours to explore this extraordinary site before being transferred to your hotel for check-in, with free time for lunch at your leisure. Expect to cover approximately 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain during this tour. Restrooms are conveniently available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

  01:00· 90 min
• Luxor Temple tour

  After a well-deserved rest at the hotel, a 30-minute afternoon transfer awaits to take you to Luxor Temple, once the largest and most significant religious center in ancient Egypt. Guided by your specialist, you'll delve into the temple's historical significance and architectural beauty during a comprehensive 2-hour exploration. Throughout the tour, you'll uncover the remnants of the avenue of sphinxes, an ancient pathway that once connected Luxor Temple to the Karnak Temple complex. Some sections of this path are currently under restoration, providing a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient processional way. Expect to cover approximately 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain during this visit After the tour concludes, you'll be transferred back to the hotel, where you'll have free time for dinner at your leisure. Restrooms are conveniently available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

  17:00· 120 min· Luxor
• Domestic Flight from Cairo to Luxor

  In the morning, a 30-minute transfer from the hotel to Cairo International Airport is scheduled to catch a short flight to Luxor. Please note that your flight includes one 7kg carry-on and one 23kg checked baggage. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival in Luxor, a 30-minute transfer will take you to the city. Please note that, depending on flight availability, an early departure this morning may be required.

  60 min

Embark on an exhilarating day to explore the highlights of Luxor. Begin with an early morning transfer to the Valley of the Kings, where you'll unravel the mysteries of royal tombs and ancient rituals. A brief transfer follows, leading to the temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the imposing Colossi of Memnon. Later, indulge in a memorable lunch featuring traditional cuisine at a local house. As the day unfolds, experience the enchantment of a traditional felucca boat ride along the Nile at sunset. Ensure your comfort for the day by wearing appropriate footwear and attire, while adhering to local customs by dressing modestly, avoiding exposure of your back and shoulders. Remember essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay refreshed throughout the day.

• Valley of the Kings Tour

  In the morning, a transfer from your hotel will take you on a 20-minute drive to the remarkable royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings. Concealed beneath these arid hills are over 60 lavishly adorned pharaohs' tombs. Guided by your professional guide, immerse yourself in this expansive and awe-inspiring location, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BC) were secretly laid to rest for eternity, and ongoing discoveries continue to unfold. Explore three of the most attractive tombs—Ramesses IV, Ramesses IX, and Merenptah—during your approximately 2.5-hour visit before heading to the next attraction, the Hatshepsut Temple. Expect to cover around 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain during this tour. Restrooms are available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

  08:00· 120 min· Luxor
• Hatshepsut Temple Visit

  A quick 10-minute transfer separates the Valley of the Kings from the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the renowned queen who held the longest reign—21 years—in ancient Egypt. This colonnaded building, set against towering cliffs, forms a spectacular natural amphitheater and is hailed as a masterpiece of ancient architecture. You'll have approximately 2 hours to explore the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, covering around 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain. After immersing yourself in this impressive structure, a brief 10-minute transfer will take you to the Colossi of Memnon. Restrooms are available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

  10:00· 60 min· Luxor
• Colossi of Memnon

  The Colossi of Memnon is a mere 10-minute transfer from the Hatshepsut Temple. Upon arrival, you'll be awestruck by these towering statues that were once integral to an impressive colonnade. Each statue, reaching a height of around 60 feet, was intricately carved from a single piece of stone. You'll have approximately 30 minutes to explore the Colossi of Memnon before returning to the city, where a traditional lunch awaits in a local house. It's important to note that restrooms are not available at the Colossi of Memnon.

  11:15· 30 min· Luxor
• Sunset Nile River Sailing

  In the afternoon, a 15-minute transfer will drive you to the banks of the Nile River, where you'll board a private Felucca, a traditional wooden sailing boat used for centuries on the Nile. The serene ride provides an opportunity to appreciate the city from a unique perspective while enjoying the company of fellow travelers and the hospitable staff against the backdrop of the setting sun. Lasting about 2 hours, the sailing experience includes traditional Nubian cookies and tea. The boat's motion is generally gentle, but if you are prone to dizziness, it's advisable to bring any necessary medication. After the sail, you'll be transferred back to the hotel, allowing free time for dinner.

  16:30· 120 min· Luxor

It's time to bid farewell to the enchanting Luxor and embark on the journey back to Cairo, this time by flight. In the morning, you'll be transferred to Luxor airport for a domestic flight. Once you arrive and after checking in and freshening up at your hotel in Cairo, a short transfer will take you to the vibrant Khan Al-Khalili bazaar. Navigate the labyrinthine streets teeming with artisans and vibrant street food. You'll return to the hotel in the evening, and later, a final transfer will guide you to a local restaurant for a memorable farewell dinner. For this day, it's recommended to wear comfortable footwear and attire. To respect local customs, please dress modestly, avoiding exposure of your back and shoulders. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and water to stay refreshed and hydrated throughout the day.

• Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar Visit

  In the afternoon, a 15-minute drive will transport you to the vibrant and charming Khan El Khalili bazaar. Once there, embark on a walking tour in the heart of Islamic Cairo on El Moez Street, adjacent to the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. As an essential Egyptian experience, Cairo's Khan al Khalili Bazaar is renowned for its array of colors and aromas, making it one of the world’s oldest marketplaces. You'll have ample time to immerse yourself in this fascinating environment, observing vendors as they prepare popular food and exploring the Al Attarin spice and El Sagha gold markets. After the bazaar tour, a transfer will take you back to the hotel. During the tour, explore the labyrinthine streets on foot, covering approximately 0.5 to 1 mile. Restrooms will be available at restaurants and cafes during the tour, with an additional cost.

  16:30· 120 min· Cairo
• Transfer · Luxor → Cairo

  In the morning, a 30-minute transfer from the hotel to Luxor International Airport is scheduled to catch a short flight to Cairo. Please note that your flight includes one 7kg carry-on and one 23kg checked baggage. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival in Cairo, a 50-minute transfer will take you to your hotel, allowing for some free time to freshen up and enjoy lunch on your own.

  private · 60 min

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of CAI. We recommend booking your departing flights from CAI to be after 7:00 AM.