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Alexandria & Ancient Egypt with Cruise

13 days

Take a 13 day tour of incredible Egypt, from Mediterranean Alexandria and the Commonwealth War Graves of El Alamein, to the legendary Pyramids of Giza, the sunny southern city of Aswan and Luxor's tomb strewn Valley of Kings. Cruising the Nile, exploring ancient wonders and more.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Free cancellation
Free amends
Available on all departures booked at least 40 days in advance. Cancel or change your booking for FREE for up to 7 days after booking

Tour Overview

Duration

13 days

Starts

Cairo

Ends

Cairo

Range

Signature

Tour Guide

Yes, escorted by a tour guide

Group Size

Min 2 / Max 24

Minimum age

15 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Tuesdays

Hotel Rating

4 - 5 star

Countries

Egypt

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Meals included

Breakfast: 12, Lunch: 4, Dinner: 4
Per person from
CAD$3,595.00
Total From
CAD$7,190.00
Deposit From
Final payment
CAD$1,000.00
$6,690.00

Tour Highlights

Alexandria - Take in the highlights of this beautiful Mediterranean port city, including the Roman Catacombs, Pompey's Pillar, the Library of Alexandria and Quaitbay Fort, the site of the great Lighthouse of Alexandria
Cairo - Marvel at the legendary Pyramids of Giza, explore the Necropolis of Saqqara and see King Tut's treasures at the Grand Egyptian Museum
El Alamein - Tour the WWII battlefields, pay your respects at the Commonwealth War Graves and visit the El Alamein Military Museum
Luxor West Bank - Discover exquisite tombs at the Valley of the Kings, see the towering Colossi of Memnon and explore the beautiful Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Luxor - Roam around the colossal Temple of Karnak and take an optional tour of the beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple at night
Aswan - Take a leisurely boat trip to Agilika Island to explore romantic Philae Temple and wander around the colourful souqs
Nile cruising - Spend 3 nights on board a 5 star Nile cruiser and cruise the Nile in style
Kom Ombo - Visit the Nile side Temple of Kom Ombo

Included

Breakfast daily, 4 lunches and 4 dinners
7 nights 4-5 star hotels, 3 nights aboard 5 star Nile Cruiser (en suite cabin)
Escorted by an Egyptian tour guide degree qualified in Egyptology
Touring - Cairo, Giza, Saqqara, Aswan and Luxor
Touring - Alexandria and the El Alamein Battlefields and museum
2 overnight trains from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo (Private 2 berth sleeper cabin)
Airport arrival and departure transfer on day 1 and day 13
All relevant transfers and transportation in private modern air-conditioned vehicles

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tip for your tour guide - we recommend you allow USD$8 per day, per traveller for your guide, though ultimately tipping is an entirely personal gesture
Entrance Fees: USD$110-130pp, paid in local currency
Tipping Kitty: USD$70-90pp, paid in local currency
Tipping is not a natural part of many Western cultures and many of us feel uncomfortable, or unsure, about when, or how much, to tip. However, in the places you will visit, tipping makes up a significant part of many people's wages so it's important that we get it right. For this reason we've developed a very simple system to take all the hassle out of tipping. With our 'tipping made easy' policy, a nominal pre-determined amount is collected from all group tour participants to cover tips en route. This then saves you the hassle of when and how much to tip bellhops, luggage handlers, local guides and other support staff through the tour. Our 'tipping made easy' doesn't include a tip to your group tour leader. Naturally, though, the amount is up to you as tipping is an entirely personal gesture.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Cairo

Tuesday. Welcome to Egypt and the start of your holiday. Arrive Cairo Airport and included transfer to our hotel. The remainder of the day offers free time for you relax and maybe have a dip in the swimming pool.

Overnight: Cairo

Day 2 - Exploring Alexandria

Bright and early this morning we drive to the port side city of Alexandria on the Mediterranean Coast. Arriving at the windswept city known for its broad beaches and seafront corniche dotted with sun loungers, amusements and cafes we embark on a guided tour of the Roman catacombs. Heading underground we view the largest known Roman burial site in Egypt, complete with burial chambers, labyrinth alleyways and entertaining rooms for families coming to visit the dead.

From the catacombs we visit Pompey's Pillar, a modest 25m tower, which is all that remains of an ancient column, from the ruined Temple of Serapis. Our next stop is the impressive Library of Alexandria, where free time will be offered for photos of the exterior (and if we are fortunate and it is open to the public during our stop here, those who are interested can go inside). Lastly today, we take a leisurely stroll along the corniche to the Citadel of Quaitbey. We explore this attractive fortress, which was built on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which was destroyed by a powerful earthquake 1323AD.

After hotel check in and time to freshen up we'll head out for a drive along the corniche followed by dinner (included).

Overnight: Alexandria
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3 - El Alamein

Today we visit the Commonwealth War Graves of El Alamein. It is here where two extended battles were fought during World War II. The first began on the 1st July 1942 and lasted for 27 days, it ended as a stalemate. After 3 months of holding back the enemy, the Allies launched a second attack which lasted for 13 days. This saw the Allied forces (including British, Australian and New Zealand soldiers) push back the Axis powers for ultimate defeat in Tunisia. Some 13,000 Allied soldiers were killed and 70,000 were wounded in the battle.

Later, we tour the compact El Alamein military museum that acts as a memorial for the battle and houses lots of original war vehicles, weapons, uniforms and records. Displays in the museum detail the complete history of World War II in North Africa from all sides and stands on the site where the actual battle took place. This afternoon we return to Cairo.

Overnight: Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4 - Cairo Free Day

Enjoy a free day in Cairo before the rest of your Egyptian adventure. Relax by the hotel pool or join our optional Backstreets of Cairo tour, which departs the hotel at 10am and takes you off the beaten track in Egypt's bustling capital, visiting Downtown Cairo, the exquisite mosques and monuments of El Moez Street in Islamic Cairo, Garbage City and the incredible Cave Church of St. Simon.

Overnight: Cairo
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Pyramids of Giza & Saqqara

Visit the famous pyramids and iconic Sphinx at Giza Plateau today. Sole survivors from the ancient Greek-listed Seven Wonders of the World, the pyramids are the planet’s oldest tourist attraction! Gaze in awe at Cheops (Khufu) - the largest of the three great pyramids. Constructed from over 2.5 million limestone blocks it is thought to have taken more than 20 years to construct. Continuing to Saqqara, we can explore the myriad tombs and temples at this site and see Zhoser’s step pyramid - constructed by Imhotep, the pharaoh’s chief architect in 2700 BC! A visit to a government supervised Papyrus Museum will also be made at some point during today.

Overnight: Cairo
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - The Grand Egyptian Museum

Cairo - Aswan. On today’s excursion, we visit the Grand Egyptian Museum. This extraordinary 490,000 sq.m complex is just 2km from the pyramids and houses over 100,000 artefacts from ancient Egypt’s diverse history. Many of the exhibits have never been on public display before, and artefacts have been brought together from across Egypt and the rest of the world. The museum will eventually showcase a giant exhibition dedicated to the treasures of King Tutankhamun.

After our guided tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum, we head over to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, which continues to house a vast collection of statues, jewellery, and sarcophagi. Among its treasures are several remarkably well-preserved mummies, including those of Yuya and Thuyu, high-ranking nobles and the great-grandparents of King Tutankhamun. These mummies are so well-preserved that they still have thick locks of hair, visible fingernails, and smooth, blackened skin. Then there's time to relax back at the hotel before we board the night train to Aswan this evening.

Overnight: Sleeper Train
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - Aswan & the Philae Temple

This morning we arrive into Aswan and enjoy a short boat trip to Agilika Island for Philae Temple - dedicated to the goddess Isis. Then a brief stop will be made at a perfume oil emporium before check-in on board your Nile Cruiser which will be home for the next three nights. Later, there is free time to perhaps enjoy some shopping in the colourful souks and markets or simply relax in this attractive town which straddles the River Nile.

Overnight: Aswan - Nile Cruiser
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 - Nile Cruising & optional Abu Simbel

Aswan - Nile Cruising. Today there is an optional early morning excursion by road to Abu Simbel, the famous the rock-cut temple of King Ramses II. Our Nile cruiser departs Aswan this afternoon and we cruise the River Nile to Kom Ombo where we disembark to visit the temple which is dedicated to the crocodile headed god - Sobek before returning to the cruiser.

Overnight: Nile Cruiser
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 - Nile Cruising

Nile Cruise - Luxor. Relax, enjoy a swim in the pool and chill out in the sun on deck this morning. Let your troubles melt away as we cruise the River Nile to Luxor. Home of the legendary Valley of the Kings and Temple of Karnak, 4000 year-old Luxor is ancient Egypt at its best. Arriving into Luxor this afternoon the rest of the day is free to explore the city before we spend our final night aboard the cruiser.

Overnight: Luxor - Nile Cruiser
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 - Luxor

This morning we disembark and check into our 5 star Luxor hotel. The day is free to enjoy the hotel facilities, relax and explore. Tonight, we have the opportunity to visit Luxor Temple with dinner afterwards. Built by Amenophis III, Luxor Temple looks stunning at night when it's illuminated by hundreds of lights (book and pay locally).

Overnight: Luxor
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Valley of the Kings

Luxor - Cairo. Today we will tour the West Bank of the Nile. An early start allows us to avoid some of the fierce midday heat as we venture to the tomb strewn Valley of the Kings. Highlights of the visit include the Colossi of Memnon, a massive pair of statues that stand silent against a historic backdrop, the Valleys of the Kings with its beautifully decorated tombs, constructed to once house the regal sarcophagi enclosed mummies of the mighty pharaohs awaiting passage into the after-life and the awesome colonnaded Temple of Queen Hatshepsut.

This afternoon after lunch and time to relax we visit the colossal Temple of Karnak, with its stone-columned Hypostle Hall. Tonight, we return by overnight train to Cairo.

Overnight: Sleeper Train
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - Free time in Cairo

We arrive back in Cairo where today is free for you to relax or explore Egypt’s capital at leisure. You can opt to visit Khan el Khalili bazaar, the ideal place for some last minute souvenir shopping.

Overnight: Cairo
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 - Cairo

Sunday. Hotel check out and included onward departure transfer to airport.

Meals: Breakfast

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Post Tour Accommodation - Cairo

Double

$205per passenger

Twin

$205per passenger

Single

$385per passenger

Pre Tour Accommodation - Cairo (from price)

Double

$205per passenger

Twin

$205per passenger

Single

$385per passenger

Additional Excursions

Enhance your tour with these optional extras, helping you to get the most from your adventure.

Great Temple of Abu Simbel | Egypt
Abu Simbel by Road

Possibly the most awe-inspiring temple of all ancient Egypt, with its gargantuan rock-cut facade is the magnificent Abu Simbel. Guarding the entrance to the temple are 4 colossal seated statues of the pharaoh himself, staring out across Lake Nasser.

$265

per passenger
Khan el-Khalili Market Cairo
Backstreets of Cairo

Discover some of Cairo’s most fascinating neighbourhoods and get off the beaten track on this Backstreets of Cairo tour. Stroll through the bustling Downtown and explore the beautiful mosques and monuments of Islamic Cairo’s spectacular El Moez Street, before bartering for goods at Khan el Khalili Bazaar. Then learn about the life of the Zabbaleen waste pickers before visiting the famous Cave Church of St Simon.

$185

per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

Holiday Inn Cairo Maadi
Cairo

Overlooking the Nile and offering distant views of the Great Pyramids of Giza, this Holiday Inn provides the perfect location for your stay in Cairo. Each guestroom features a balcony (not Nile View as standard) and is well-equipped with modern amenities including free WiFi. Evenings can be spent enjoying international or Egyptian cuisine and unwinding with a cocktail at one of the hotel’s bars. Thanks to the friendly hotel staff, you’ll soon feel at home. And with panoramic views of the city from the rooftop lounge and pool, there’s no better place to base yourself for exploring Egypt’s ancient wonders.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Sleeper Train
Cairo

When travelling on an overnight train in Egypt, sleeper carriages offer the highest level of comfort. Cabins are equipped with two beds (one above the other), a basin, electric points and air conditioning. Freshly laundered bedding is provided and in the early evening an attendant will come round and make up your bed for you. The carriages have toilets at each end and there is a club car which serves snacks and beverages. In the morning a very basic breakfast is provided.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Train
Steigenberger Hotel el Tahrir
Cairo

Ideally located in the heart of downtown Cairo, the Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir is right by the lively Tahrir Square. Guestrooms offer peace and quiet away from the high-energy of the city, with contemporary decor and sound-proofed windows overlooking views of Cairo. The wellness facilities are state-of-the-art, including a fitness centre, outdoor pool and sauna and massage rooms. Be sure to take advantage of the poolside bar and delicious hotel restaurant, or enjoy the option of 24-hour in-room dining.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Holiday Inn City Stars
Cairo

The Holiday Inn Cairo City Stars Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the modern and historic attractions of Egypt's capital. Rooms are spacious, offering a flatscreen TV and private bathroom. There are restaurants on site, including the rooftop garden that offers panoramic views of the city.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Radisson Blu Hotel
Cairo

Radisson Blu is in the Heliopolis area of Cairo, just 3 kms from Cairo International Airport. Providing spacious, well appointed guest rooms with amenities such as a daily newspaper and turndown service, the hotel is the perfect oasis for guests visiting the city. Its two restaurants, lobby lounge, and gourmet bakery offer a range of culinary choices. To top it all off, the hotel boasts a rooftop spa and pool with panoramic Cairo views.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Sonesta Hotel, Towers & Casino Cairo
Cairo

The Sonesta Hotel & Casino is a sophisticated and luxurious hotel offering spacious, en-suit rooms with opulent furnishings. Enjoy a cocktail at the poolside bar or indulge in a relaxing massage or Turkish steam bath at the full-service spa. With 5 restaurants located within the hotel you'll be spoilt for choice over dining options.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Paradise Inn Le Metropole
Alexandria

Le Metropole is one of the oldest in Alexandria and is a superb example of 18th century architecture. The rooms are are cozy and well appointed.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
M/S Medea
Nile Cruising

The M/S Medea is elegantly furnished with rich fabrics, wood panelling and classic style furniture, offering a refined setting for your Nile cruise. The restaurant offers 120 covers with a combination of waiter service and buffet meals which allows to sample both Egyptian and international cuisine. The spacious lounge bar is tastefully furnished with Chesterfield sofas and offers panoramic views of the Nile River.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 star cruise boat
M/S La Traviata
Nile Cruising

M/S La Traviata has proved be a long term favourite with many regular Nile cruise guests. The cosy restaurant on the lower deck serves 88 guests and serves both - international and Egyptian cuisine. Lounge bar with dance floor and music system for evening entertainment. The sundeck offers a pool as well as sun loungers and a shaded area. The reception offers full services including an international phone. The gift shop on board has a wide range of gifts and souvenirs from Egypt.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 star cruise boat
Sonesta St. George Hotel
Luxor

An elegant and luxurious classical hotel, the Sonesta's sophistication will ensure you a comfortable stay. The hotel has a sweeping terrace with fantastic views of the Nile, a grand entrance of polished marble and handsomely appointed furnishings with exquisite detail and a beautiful health spa. All its rooms offer views of the city or the river, complemented by a wide range of restaurants and cafes. Just minutes away you will find the temples at Luxor and Karnak, home to two of ancient Egypt's most famed sanctuaries.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Deluxe Hotel
Steigenberger Nile Palace
Luxor

The Steigenburger Nile Palace is a grand hotel and stylishly furnished, with many rooms overlooking the Nile River. The hotel has a health club with massage rooms, sauna, steam room and fitness room, and a tennis court on the roof, not to mention a riverside pool. Its four restaurants offer a choice between Nubian, Lebanese, Italian, and Thai cuisine.

Our Rating
Deluxe
Local Rating
5 Star Deluxe Hotel

Prices & Dates

The Nile Cruise Upgrade version of this tour includes 3 nights on board a 5 star Nile Cruiser (en suite cabin) in place of the felucca. For full details, please refer to the 'Nile Cruise Upgrade Trip Notes' in the right hand column for details. All dates are guaranteed to operate when there are 2 persons booked on the tour. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2024
Twin/Double
Single
26 Nov - 8 Dec
$4,185
$6,545
3 Dec - 15 Dec
$4,185
$6,545
10 Dec - 22 Dec
$4,185
$6,545
17 Dec - 29 Dec
$4,915
$7,945
24 Dec - 5 Jan
$4,915
$7,945
2025
Twin/Double
Single
7 Jan - 19 Jan
$3,595
$5,565
21 Jan - 2 Feb
$3,595
$5,565
28 Jan - 9 Feb
$3,595
$5,565
4 Feb - 16 Feb
$3,595
$5,565
18 Feb - 2 Mar
$3,595
$5,565
25 Feb - 9 Mar
$3,595
$5,565
4 Mar - 16 Mar
$3,595
$5,565
11 Mar - 23 Mar
$3,595
$5,565
2026
Twin/Double
Single
6 Jan - 18 Jan
$4,445
$6,945
13 Jan - 25 Jan
$4,445
$6,945
20 Jan - 1 Feb
$4,445
$6,945
3 Feb - 15 Feb
$4,445
$6,945
17 Feb - 1 Mar
$4,445
$6,945
24 Feb - 8 Mar
$4,445
$6,945
3 Mar - 15 Mar
$4,445
$6,945
10 Mar - 22 Mar
$4,445
$6,945

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