Egypt is a living archaeological site... and through it flows the Nile, the lifeblood of the nation and the people as it has been since the dawn of time; antiquities tell this ancient civilization's compelling story.

One of the most fascinating countries on Earth, Egypt is a vast, living archaeological site whose world-renowned antiquities tell this ancient civilization's compelling story, which has unfolded over some 5,000 years... explore Egypt's historic and cultural treasures – many of which are tucked away in remote desert locations, and have attracted travelers for centuries – firsthand, on unforgettable journeys including cruises on the Egyptian nation's lifeblood, the timeless Nile River.

Depart your hometown and head to Athens, Greece. * Flight details, TBD. Please note this is an overnight flight arriving on 3/15.

Upon arrival in Cairo, Egypt, you will make your way through immigration and luggage claim. After you’ve gathered your luggage, you will meet your private transfer and make your way to your hotel. Welcome to Egypt!

*An early check-in will be requested on your behalf based on your arrival time. However, this is subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.

After checking in to your accommodations in Cairo, take time to settle in and recover from your jetlag with an afternoon at leisure.

Tonight, we'll meet for a fun Welcome dinner!

Overnight: Marriott Mena House Hotel, Cairo

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting off on a full-day exploration of the Giza Plateau!

Visit the magnificent Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure, and take in the iconic Sphinx. Continue on to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, where you’ll see the colossal statue of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx. When the first leg of today’s tour has concluded, enjoy lunch with views of the pyramids!

Next, travel to the Saqqara necropolis to explore the Step Pyramid of Djoser and the surrounding ancient tombs before transferring back to your hotel for the evening. Dinner this evening will be at your leisure. Restaurant recommendations and reservations are available upon request.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Overnight: Marriott Mena House Hotel, Cairo

Your day starts with a drive to the picturesque Tunis Village in Fayoum, where you’ll enjoy a traditional breakfast overlooking the serene Qarun Lake.

Embark on an unforgettable journey as you explore Wadi Al-Hitan (Whale Valley), a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient whale fossils. Your tour this afternoon also includes a lunch of regional dishes and traditional favorites!

Later, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing hues of Magic Lake, renowned for its shifting colors amid stunning dunes and scenic vistas. Finally, venture into the breathtaking landscapes of Wadi El-Rayan on an exhilarating 4x4 desert safari, where you can marvel at waterfalls, try sandboarding, and enjoy a range of thrilling optional activities. 

When your day of sightseeing has come to an end, you’ll return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Overnight: Marriott Mena House Hotel, Cairo

Enjoy an early-morning breakfast at the hotel, then check out. Transfer to Cairo Airport for an early domestic flight to Aswan. Arrival in Aswan and transfer to your very own dahabiya boat for check-in.

Experience the timeless beauty of Egypt aboard the Lumiere Dahabiya River Boat, an intimate and elegant way to cruise the Nile. Designed for a more personalized journey, this traditional-style vessel offers a serene setting to explore Egypt’s legendary river, with comfortable accommodations and an atmosphere that reflects the charm and romance of classic Nile travel.

Begin your journey with a captivating visit to the iconic Philae Temple, followed by a tour of the monumental High Dam. Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch as you take in the breathtaking scenery. Optional: explore the charming Nubian Village, immersing yourself in local culture. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in the vibrant city of Aswan.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Overnight: Lumiere Dahabiya River Boat, Docked in Aswan

After enjoying a delicious breakfast served on board the vessel, guests will be served lunch while cruising along the Nile, offering scenic views of the river and surrounding landscapes. Upon arrival in Kom Ombo, visitors will explore the remarkable Kom Ombo Temple, an ancient double temple dedicated to the crocodile-headed Sobek and the falcon-headed Horus. The temple is renowned for its well-preserved hieroglyphs, intricate carvings, and stunning view of the Nile, especially when illuminated by the sunset, which gives the site an especially atmospheric glow.

Later in the day, the journey continues as you sail onward to Esna. Once there, you will have the opportunity to visit the impressive Esna Temple, dedicated to the Nile God Khnum, known for its elaborate carvings and Hypostyle Hall. After the tour, enjoy a delicious dinner on board the boat as you gently sail further along the Nile, immersing yourself in the tranquil evening waters. The night will be spent in Esna, offering a peaceful overnight stay to rest and take in the beauty of the Nile at night.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Overnight: Lumiere Dahabiya River Boat, Docked in Esna

Start your day with an early visit to Esna Temple, a beautifully preserved ancient temple dedicated to Khnum, the ram-headed god, offering impressive hieroglyphs and river views, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a delicious breakfast as you pass through Esna Lock, a historic lock on the Nile that raises and lowers ships between different water levels.

Then savor lunch while sailing toward Luxor, enjoying the scenic river landscapes. Arrive in Luxor early afternoon to explore the iconic East Bank, home to the magnificent Temples of Luxor and Karnak. The Temple of Luxor, a stunning example of ancient Egyptian architecture, features grand colonnades and intricate carvings dedicated to Amun-Ra. The Karnak Temple complex is one of the largest religious sites in the world, renowned for its massive pylons, hypostyle halls, and detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions.

In the evening, return to the ship for a delightful dinner on board, and spend the night on the scenic West Bank of Luxor, where you can enjoy views of the Valley of the Kings and the West Bank temples.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Overnight: Lumiere Dahabiya River Boat, Docked in Luxor

Start your day with a delightful breakfast onboard, fueling up for an immersive journey into Egypt's rich history. The tour begins with a visit to the West Bank of the Nile, where you'll explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, a vast necropolis home to the tombs of Pharaohs such as Tutankhamun, adorned with intricate hieroglyphs and elaborate artwork. Next, you'll visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, an impressive mortuary temple dedicated to one of Egypt's few female pharaohs, renowned for its innovative architecture and stunning terraces that blend seamlessly into the cliffs.

Continuing your exploration, you'll stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues representing Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing as silent guardians of the ancient city. After your comprehensive tour of these remarkable sites, you'll disembark in Luxor and be transferred to Luxor Airport for your domestic flight to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo, you will be taken to your hotel where you can relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Meals: Breakfast 

Overnight: St. Regis Cairo Hotel, Cairo

Begin your day at the Coptic Museum, home to an extensive collection of artifacts that showcase the rich history and artistry of Coptic Christianity in Egypt. Continue to Ben Ezra Synagogue, one of Egypt’s oldest synagogues, believed to be built near the spot where baby Moses was found.

Next, visit the Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa), dramatically perched atop the southern gate of the Roman Fortress of Babylon, followed by the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, traditionally regarded as the place where the Holy Family sought refuge during their time in Egypt.

From there, see the Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque, the first mosque established in Egypt and a landmark in the beginning of Islamic Cairo. Then proceed to the historic Citadel of Saladin, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Cairo and home to several significant monuments that reflect centuries of Egyptian rule and architecture. Within the Citadel complex, visit the magnificent Mohamed Ali Mosque, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, admired for its striking Ottoman design and commanding presence.

Conclude your day with a visit to the vibrant Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, where you can shop, soak in the lively atmosphere, and experience local culture before being transferred back to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast 

Overnight: St. Regis Cairo Hotel, Cairo

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting sail on a private catamaran charter. Spend the day at sea soaking up the sun, exploring the coastline, and cooling off with a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean! 

Set sail along Santorini’s stunning coastline onboard a luxury catamaran. Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters as we stop at the Hot Springs, Red Beach, White Beach, Mesa Pigadia Caves, and the picturesque Saint Nicolas Church beneath Oia. Enjoy a scenic cruise past Aspronisi, the Lighthouse, Black Mountain, and the striking Indian Face Rock, taking in breathtaking views along the way. A delicious barbecue picnic with refreshing drinks will be served onboard, completing this unforgettable Aegean experience.

After an incredible day on the water, you will return for an afternoon at leisure before joining together for a farewell dinner at a beautiful seaside restaurant. Cheers to a fabulous and delicious adventure! 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Overnight: Rocabella Hotel, Santorini

Early in the day, depart for the outskirts of Cairo to explore the lively and authentic Birqash Camel Market. Renowned as one of the largest camel trading hubs in the Middle East, this vibrant market offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional Bedouin commerce. It's a unique cultural experience and a fantastic opportunity for photography, capturing the colorful interactions and bustling atmosphere of the traders and animals.

On the way back to the city, make a brief stop outside Cairo to enjoy a panoramic view of the City of the Dead. This historic cemetery complex is renowned for its vast landscape dotted with ancient tombs and mausoleums, creating a striking, atmospheric sight that highlights Cairo's rich Islamic history. Continuing into the heart of historic Cairo, embark on a dedicated walking tour of Al-Muizz Street. Known as the world’s largest open-air museum of medieval Islamic architecture, this street is lined with centuries-old mosques, madrasas, and palaces, each boasting intricate carvings and ornate facades.

Discover the cultural and religious significance of these monuments, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of Cairo’s medieval Islamic heritage. After a full day of sightseeing, you will return to your hotel.

Tonight, we'll say good bye with a fantastic Farewell dinner at a local restaurant (hello belly dancers!)

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Overnight: St. Regis Cairo Hotel, Cairo

This morning, after breakfast at your hotel, you’ll check out of your accommodations, meet your private transfer, and head to Cairo International Airport.

From here, you’ll board your return flight with service to the United States. *Flight details, TBD.

Meals: Breakfast