Gods of Egypt tour

Upon arrival at Cairo airport, we will meet you and assist you with visa formalities and luggage collection, then transfer you to your hotel. Our rep will help you settle in, then the rest of the day is free at your leisure. If your flight lands early, then you could take a first look at the pyramids with an amazing sound and light show, or perhaps head into downtown Cairo for a Nile dinner cruise and show. ...more ...less

Our Gods of Egypt Tour begins with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum in the heart of Cairo's Tahrir Square. Immerse yourself in the wonders of ancient Egypt as you explore the Tutankhamun exhibit and countless other fascinating artifacts. Our expert Egyptologist guide will accompany you throughout your visit, sharing their wealth of knowledge and passion for Egyptian history and culture.

Next, prepare to be awestruck by the iconic pyramids of Giza. Marvel at the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), a monumental structure standing tall at 500 feet and spanning 750 feet at its base. Constructed with massive stone blocks and adorned with a hard limestone casing, this architectural masterpiece will leave you speechless. Alongside the Great Pyramid, admire the smaller yet equally impressive pyramids of Khafre (Chephren) and Menkaure (Mycerinus). You'll even have the chance to venture inside the pyramids (limited tickets available for the Great Pyramid) for an unforgettable experience.

Between these captivating visits, savour a delicious Koshary lunch. This traditional Egyptian dish is a culinary delight, featuring a medley of rice, lentils, macaroni, chickpeas, and a tangy tomato sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. It's a true feast for the senses and a perfect representation of Egypt's rich culinary heritage.

As the day draws to a close, we'll transfer to the Cairo Airport for a short flight to Aswan where we'll spend the night.

Those seeking an awe-inspiring adventure can rise early for an optional excursion to Abu Simbel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts two magnificent temples carved into the mountainside by Ramses II. These monumental structures, adorned with colossal statues and intricate reliefs, are a testament to the grandeur of ancient Egypt and a definite highlight of any trip.

We wake up in Aswan, a city steeped in ancient Nubian history. The Nubian people have inhabited this region for millennia, their culture intertwined with the Nile. We'll visit the Nubian Villages later today, where you'll be charmed by the brightly painted houses, adorned with symbolic patterns and vibrant colours. Explore the bustling local markets for handcrafted souvenirs and spices.

Beforehand, we'll embark on a boat trip to the breathtaking Philae Temple. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this temple complex was once threatened by the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Thankfully, it was carefully dismantled and relocated to its current island location, preserving its beauty.

After visiting Philae Temple, we delve deeper into Nubian culture. We'll journey south of Aswan to a traditional Nubian village, experiencing the local way of life firsthand. We'll wander through the village, visit Nubian families' homes, and learn about their customs and traditions. We'll then return to the cruise boat for the night.

Today is dedicated to relaxation and enjoying the timeless beauty of the Nile. We'll spend the day sailing downstream, basking in the sun on the deck of our cruise boat and watching the tranquil rhythm of rural Egyptian life unfold along the riverbanks. Keep an eye out for farmers tending their fields, fishermen casting their nets, and perhaps even water buffalo cooling off in the shallows. The ever-changing landscape provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily routines of those who live and work along this vital waterway.

Our first stop is the captivating riverside temple at Kom Ombo. This temple boasts an unusual double design, a testament to the dual deities worshipped here. One side is dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, a powerful and often fearsome deity associated with the Nile's unpredictable nature. The other side honours Horus, the falcon-headed sky god, a symbol of power, protection, and kingship. The temple's unique layout and its picturesque setting make it a truly memorable experience.

After exploring Kom Ombo, we continue our journey downstream to Edfu, home to the magnificent Temple of Horus. This remarkably well-preserved temple, dedicated to the same deity we encountered at Kom Ombo, is considered one of the most complete and best-preserved ancient Egyptian temples in existence. Its impressive scale and intricate carvings offer a profound insight into the religious beliefs and architectural prowess of the ancient Egyptians. We'll moor at Edfu for the night, allowing us to fully appreciate the serene atmosphere and perhaps enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the riverbank.

This morning, we delve into the wonders of the Temple of Horus at Edfu, arguably the best-preserved temple in all of Egypt. Its remarkably intact structure offers a fascinating glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. Beyond its impressive architecture, the temple boasts a wealth of inscriptions, some in the Coptic language, providing valuable insights into later periods of its history. The vibrant paintings that adorn the walls further enhance our understanding of the temple's significance and the stories it tells. We'll have ample time to explore its various chambers, admire the intricate carvings, and imagine the ceremonies that once took place within these sacred walls.

Following our visit to Edfu, we continue our Nile journey, a highlight of which is passing through the lock at Esna. This experience offers a unique perspective on the engineering required to navigate the river's changing water levels and provides a chance to observe the local life along the riverbanks as we wait our turn. As we emerge from the lock, the landscape gradually transforms, signalling our approach to Luxor.

Luxor, built on and around the ancient city of Thebes, is a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. It boasts the greatest concentration of ancient ruins in the Nile Valley, perhaps even the world. The sheer scale and grandeur of the sites here are truly breathtaking. To the west, across the shimmering waters of the Nile, lies the City of the Dead, a vast necropolis containing mortuary temples dedicated to pharaohs and nobles, as well as rock-carved tombs that served as their final resting places. To the east, on the banks of the river, stand the magnificent Temples of Luxor and Karnak, two of the most iconic and awe-inspiring temple complexes in Egypt.

As evening descends, casting a magical glow over the city, we'll embark on a guided walking tour of the smaller, yet equally impressive, Luxor Temple. Located in the heart of Luxor town, this temple takes on a different character after dark. Colourful lights illuminate its majestic columns, intricate carvings, and towering statues, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Our guide will bring the temple's history to life, sharing stories of pharaohs, gods, and the significance of the various structures. This evening stroll provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the magic of Luxor in a unique and memorable way.

This morning, we embark on a journey to the West Bank of Luxor, a realm steeped in ancient history and shrouded in the mystique of pharaohs and their eternal resting places. Our exploration begins with a visit to the Valley of the Kings, a vast necropolis where generations of pharaohs were laid to rest in elaborately decorated tombs. We'll venture into several of these tombs, marvelling at the vibrant hieroglyphs and intricate paintings that adorn their walls. These ancient chambers continue to reveal their secrets to archaeologists, making the Valley of the Kings one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world.

Our West Bank adventure continues with a visit to Deir el-Medina, a fascinating village that was once home to the skilled artisans who constructed and decorated the royal tombs. We'll explore the remains of this ancient community, gaining insights into the lives of the workers and their families.

Next, we'll be captivated by the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a unique mortuary temple built into the cliffs. Its elegant colonnades and terraces offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. And no visit to the West Bank would be complete without encountering the Colossi of Memnon, two colossal statues that have stood guard over the Theban necropolis for millennia.

In the afternoon, we cross back to the East Bank to explore the sprawling complex of Karnak Temple. Dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, Karnak is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture. We'll wander through its vast courtyards, admire its towering columns, and decipher the intricate carvings that adorn its walls. Our guide will unravel the temple's complex history, revealing its secrets and explaining its significance as a religious and cultural centre for over 2,000 years.

For those seeking an unforgettable experience, an optional hot air balloon flight over the West Bank is available this morning. Imagine soaring above the Valley of the Kings, the temples, and the Nile as the sun rises, painting the landscape in golden hues. It's a truly magical way to witness the grandeur of Luxor from a unique perspective (expect an early start to catch the sunrise).

This morning, we bid farewell to the Nile and embark on a scenic journey eastward towards the glistening shores of the Red Sea. Our destination is Hurghada, a vibrant resort town renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkelling opportunities.

Upon arrival, we'll check into our 5-star resort, a haven of comfort and relaxation. Prepare to be pampered with exceptional amenities and impeccable service. Your stay here is on a 'soft all-inclusive' basis, meaning that all your meals, soft drinks, and snacks are included throughout your stay. Indulge in delicious buffets, savour snacks by the pool, and quench your thirst with refreshing beverages – all without worrying about extra costs. (Alcoholic beverages are not included in the soft all-inclusive package.)

The resort offers a wealth of facilities to enhance your stay. Take a refreshing dip in the sparkling swimming pool, unwind on the sun-drenched terrace, or stroll along the pristine beach. For those seeking active pursuits, there are opportunities for water sports, beach volleyball, and other activities. Or perhaps you'd prefer to pamper yourself with a rejuvenating treatment at the spa. The choice is yours!

With its idyllic setting, luxurious amenities, and convenient all-inclusive package, your stay in Hurghada promises to be a relaxing and rejuvenating escape.

Today is yours to savour the delights of the Red Sea. Relax on the pristine beach, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Hurghada is renowned worldwide for its exceptional diving and snorkelling, and the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life attract enthusiasts from across the globe. If you're feeling adventurous, a plethora of activities awaits. Glide across the waves with windsurfing or kitesurfing, explore the underwater world in a glass-bottomed submarine, embark on a thrilling quad biking adventure in the desert, enjoy a leisurely camel ride along the shore, or try your luck at a spot of sea fishing. Our local representative in Hurghada will be happy to assist you with arranging any of these exciting excursions.

For those who prefer to stay closer to shore, Hurghada offers a charming marina and an atmospheric old town to explore. Wander through the bustling streets, browse the local shops, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this seaside town.

If you find yourself captivated by Hurghada's charms, we can arrange extra nights at the resort, allowing you to extend your Red Sea relaxation. (Please note that adding extra nights in Hurghada means you will depart from the group. You can either conclude your tour in Hurghada or arrange a flight back to Cairo at a later date. Contact us for further information and personalised pricing.)

We drive back to Cairo this morning (approx.. 5hrs) and check into our hotel. An upgrade to an internal flight is also available on request.

In the afternoon there is the option to take a guided walk through the back streets and bazaars in central Cairo. We'll walk through the huge Bab al-Futuh gateway and explore streets dedicated to metalwork, spices, pottery, fabric, jewellery and anything else you can imagine as we gradually enter the more touristy Khan-el-Khalili bazaar. We'll have time for a break to try some tea and a shisha pipe and perhaps enjoy an early dinner of Egypt's unofficial national dish, Kushari before returning to our hotel.

Your time is free today for some last minute sightseeing or shopping until we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. If you have an afternoon or evening flight departure, then a half-day tour of Coptic Cairo and the Citadel is available today, or you could take another half-day tour to learn more about the evolution of pyramid building at Saqqara, Dashour & Memphis. tours are also available today. Alternatively you can add extra nights to your time in Cairo which would allow you to take a day trip to the colonial city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean coast, or a trip into the desert outside Cairo to see the World Heritage Site of the Valley of the Whales at Wadi Rayan.