Sands & Seas tour

Upon arrival our staff will meet you at the airport, assist you with obtaining your visa and luggage, and then transfer you to your hotel for the start of your trip. They will help you settle in, introduce you to the local area, and explain tomorrow’s arrangements. The rest of the day is free. If you arrive early you may like to take an evening dinner cruise on the Nile, or enjoy a spectacular sound and light show at the pyramids (both available to book locally on arrival).

Our Egyptian adventure begins at the Giza Plateau, home to the iconic Great Pyramids – arguably the most recognizable ancient structures in the world. These colossal monuments, built by the Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure around 2500 BC, have captivated travelers and scholars for centuries. Our expert Egyptologist guide will be your key to unlocking the secrets of these ancient wonders. They'll share fascinating insights into the construction techniques, the religious beliefs that inspired their creation, and the stories of the pharaohs who were laid to rest within these monumental tombs. You'll learn how these pyramids fit into the broader narrative of ancient Egyptian history and gain a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity and ambition of this remarkable civilization. For those who are feeling adventurous (and not claustrophobic!), you'll have the opportunity to venture inside one of the pyramids. Descend into the cool, dimly lit passageways and experience the unique atmosphere of these ancient chambers. It's a truly unforgettable experience that brings you face-to-face with the past. Next, we'll encounter the enigmatic Sphinx, a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. This majestic guardian, nestled close to the pyramids, was only fully uncovered in the 1920s, adding to its mystique. Stand in awe of its imposing presence and contemplate the mysteries it holds. After our awe-inspiring visit to the Sphinx, we'll take a well-deserved break to refuel with a delicious Koshary lunch. This beloved Egyptian dish is a true culinary adventure, a hearty and flavorful combination of rice, lentils, macaroni, chickpeas, and a tangy tomato sauce, topped with crispy fried onions. It's a symphony of textures and tastes that perfectly embodies the country's rich culinary heritage and will leave you feeling satisfied and ready for the next adventure! Our exploration continues with a visit to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, a treasure trove of artifacts that spans millennia. Here, you'll encounter the golden treasures of Tutankhamun, marvel at the intricate sarcophagi of pharaohs, and come face-to-face with the art and artifacts that bring ancient Egypt to life. As evening descends, we'll transfer to the train station for a unique experience – an overnight journey to Luxor on a sleeper train. Settle into your private twin-berth compartment and enjoy dinner as the train rolls through the Egyptian countryside. As the landscape slips by, your steward will transform your compartment into a cozy sleeping space, ensuring a comfortable night's rest as you journey towards the ancient city of Luxor.

Arriving in Luxor early this morning, we'll cross the majestic Nile River and embark on a journey through time to the West Bank, a place steeped in ancient Egyptian history and mythology. Our first stop will be the legendary Valley of the Kings, a hidden valley where pharaohs, including the famous Tutankhamun, were laid to rest. We'll explore these elaborately decorated tombs, marveling at the intricate hieroglyphics and vivid paintings that adorn the walls. Even today, archaeologists continue to uncover new secrets in this ancient burial ground, making it one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Next, we'll journey to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a magnificent complex built into the cliffs and dedicated to one of Egypt's few female pharaohs. We'll learn about the powerful queen who ruled over Egypt and admire the grandeur of her mortuary temple, a testament to her reign and ambition. Our exploration continues at Deir el-Medina, also known as the Valley of the Craftsmen. This fascinating site offers a glimpse into the lives of the skilled artisans who built and decorated the royal tombs. We'll wander through the remains of their village, exploring their homes and workshops, and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating these ancient wonders. Our final stop on the West Bank will be the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues that have stood sentinel for millennia. Imagine the stories these giants could tell as we stand in awe of their imposing presence and learn about their historical significance. After a day of exploring the wonders of the West Bank, you'll have the afternoon free to relax and unwind. Enjoy the amenities of your hotel, perhaps taking a dip in the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or simply lounging by the Nile, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. As evening descends, we'll venture into the heart of Luxor to visit the magnificent Luxor Temple. Beautifully illuminated against the night sky, this temple is a true spectacle to behold. We'll wander through its towering columns and courtyards, learning about its rich history and religious significance as we immerse ourselves in the magic of ancient Egypt.

This morning, you'll have the chance to experience the magic of the Nile River with an included felucca ride. Glide along the tranquil waters, soaking in the sights and sounds of Luxor from a unique perspective. It's the perfect way to start your day and connect with the lifeblood of Egypt, the River Nile. After a relaxing morning, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch before we embark on an afternoon adventure to the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex. This sprawling complex, once the religious center of Thebes and Upper Egypt, is a true testament to the grandeur and ambition of the ancient Egyptians. There was a time that Karnak was linked to Luxor Temple by an extensive avenue lined with sphinxes, and the whole complex was connected to the Nile via a canal through which the sacred boats of the god Amun would sail. We'll enter through a smaller sphinx-lined avenue, built by Ramesses II, and arrive at the immense pylon entrance, a gateway to another world. Inside the vast Courtyard, we'll discover three chapels dedicated to the gods Amun, Khonsu, and Mut, each with its own unique atmosphere and history. But the true highlight of Karnak is the remarkable Hypostyle Hall, a forest of 134 towering columns, each carved with intricate scenes of gods, pharaohs, and hieroglyphic inscriptions. The sheer scale and artistry of this hall will leave you breathless. For those seeking an even more unforgettable experience, a spectacular hot air balloon flight over the West Bank of the Nile is available this morning. Imagine drifting silently above the ancient landscape, the Valley of the Kings spread out beneath you as the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues. It's an experience that will stay with you forever (but be prepared for an early start to catch the sunrise as the balloon rises!).

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace! Relax and recharge at the hotel, perhaps lounging by the pool or indulging in a spa treatment. Or, if you're eager to delve even deeper into Egypt's fascinating history, consider joining an optional tour. There's so much more to discover in Luxor! The West Bank beckons with intriguing sites like the Rammesseum, a sprawling mortuary temple dedicated to Ramses II; Medinat Habu, a well-preserved temple complex with vibrant reliefs; and the Valley of the Queens, the final resting place of powerful queens and royal children. Or, if you prefer to stay closer to town, the Luxor Museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts that shed light on the city's rich past. You can also venture out and explore Luxor independently. Wander through the bustling souk, haggling for souvenirs and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Mummification Museum to learn about the ancient Egyptians' intricate burial practices. Or, for a truly relaxing experience, take a felucca ride to nearby Banana Island, enjoying the peaceful scenery and the gentle breeze on the Nile. Your tour guide will be happy to help you arrange any extra visits, or you can book sightseeing tours in advance to ensure your spot. The choice is yours! In the evening, we'll head back to the train station to catch the overnight sleeper train back to Cairo. Settle into your comfortable compartment and enjoy the journey as the train rolls through the Egyptian countryside. For those seeking a quicker return, flight upgrades are available on request.

We arrive back in Cairo this morning and transfer to our hotel, where you can settle in and freshen up after your overnight journey. The day is then free for you to explore Cairo at your leisure, or you can choose to join one of our optional tours to delve deeper into the city's fascinating history and culture. Our optional tours offer a variety of experiences to suit your interests. Embark on a city tour that takes you to Coptic Cairo, a historic district where ancient churches and synagogues stand as testaments to the city's Christian and Jewish communities. Marvel at the Hanging Church, with its intricate woodwork and serene atmosphere, and explore the Ben Ezra Synagogue, steeped in history and tradition. Alternatively, journey to the outskirts of Cairo to explore the fascinating world of pyramid building. Visit Saqqara, Dashour, and Memphis, each site offering unique insights into the evolution of pyramid construction. At Saqqara, you'll encounter the Step Pyramid of Djoser, an architectural masterpiece that predates the Great Pyramids. In Dashur, you'll see the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, each with its own intriguing story to tell. And in Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, you'll come face-to-face with the colossal statue of Ramses II. For those seeking a true adventure, consider a full-day trip to the Wadi Rayan, a desert oasis located outside of Cairo. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Valley of the Whales, a paleontological treasure trove where you can see the fossilized remains of ancient whales and other marine creatures. It's a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore a different side of Egypt's natural history.

This morning we'll depart Cairo for our drive to Dahab, the journey will take us under the Suez Canal and through the Sinai region. If you prefer to fly, we also offer an optional Cairo to Sharm el Sheikh flight upgrade. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax by the hotel pool or beach, or head into Assalah to enjoy the unique feel of this friendly village. The word Dahab in Arabic means gold and refers to the fine yellow sand that colours the beaches either side of the main bay. The nearby Bedouin village of Assalah lies along the shore of Ghazala Bay and is a collection of campsites, hotels, restaurants, shops, dive-centres and bars, dotted with palm trees. It is here that you’ll experience the Bohemian feel that makes Dahab so special (most hotels provide shuttle buses and taxis to and fro are cheap as well). The evenings provide a perfect opportunity to try out some of the many restaurants and excellent local seafood.

Today is free to explore the many delights that Dahab, and its surroundings have to offer. You can do more snorkelling or try an introductory scuba-dive. Alternatively you can relax at one of the numerous beachside restaurants or do a spot of sunbathing on the beach. If you'd like to see more of what this area has to offer day trips are available to the protected area of Ras Abu Galum where you'll be have the opportunity to get up close with the marine life which this area has become famous for. Other options are available to the Blue Hole, Coloured and White Canyons, Mount Sinai & St Catherines Monastery and even a Bedouin evening in the desert.

We bid farewell to the stunning Red Sea Riviera today as we make our way back to the vibrant city of Cairo. Once you've settled back into your hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you please. Perhaps you'll wander through the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar, seeking out those last-minute souvenirs and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Or maybe you'll prefer to unwind at the hotel.

Our Egypt guided tour comes to an end today however, the day is yours to do 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 the half-day Cairo City Tour or 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.