Jewel of the Nile
PREMIUM TOUR: Embark on a five star Egyptian adventure. Stay in one of Cairo's smartest hotels, cruise the River Nile in style aboard a 5 star Nile cruiser and see Egypt’s best sites, guided by a professional Egyptologist guide for your entire stay.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Cairo
Day 1 Cairo
Friday. Welcome to Egypt! Upon arrival at Cairo Airport you will be met and transferred to your 5 star hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax by the hotel pool, or those arriving early, opt to join our unique Backstreets tour of Cairo which departs the hotel at 10am today. This optional tour 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.
At 7pm this evening meet your guide and the rest of the group at a Welcome Meeting.
You may also extend your stay in Cairo with our pre or post tour accommodation or tour add-ons.
Day 2 The Grand Egyptian Museum
Day 2 The Grand Egyptian Museum
This morning we enjoy a guided tour of the new Grand Egyptian Museum. A mind-boggling array of relics and antiquities from almost every period of ancient Egyptian history are housed inside this incredible 490,000 sq.m complex. Arguably the most famous exhibit is the solid gold funerary mask of King Tutankhamun. Weighing 11kg, the exquisite gold mask was found covering the head of the mummy, where it lay inside a series of 3 sarcophagi.
After our tour we head over to National Museum of Egyptian Civilization to visit the fascinating Royal Mummies' Hall, where the mummies of ancient Egyptian kings and queens are on display. Some of the mummies are so well preserved, they still have thick locks of hair, visible finger nails and smooth, if blackened skin! Spend the remains of the day at leisure, relaxing by the hotel pool.
Please Note: the Grand Egyptian Museum is scheduled to open in late 2024, though an official opening date has yet to be released. If travelling prior to the opening of the new facility we'll visit the Egyptian Museum instead.
Day 3 Pyramids of Giza
Day 3 Pyramids of Giza
Cairo - Luxor. Today we visit Egypt's most loved sight - The Great Pyramids of Giza. We explore the Giza plateau, pyramids and massive Sphinx. We continue to explore Saqqara - an ancient necropolis with many half-buried tombs and the famous Zhoser’s Step Pyramid. Later, we travel to Luxor by overnight train. You are accommodated in comfortable twin sleeper cabins and a light dinner is served onboard.
If you don’t fancy travelling by overnight sleeper train, consider our Treasures of the Nile tour that replaces overnight trains with flights and comfortable 5 star hotels.
Day 4 Valley of the Kings
Day 4 Valley of the Kings
Arriving into Luxor this morning, we visit the West Bank. The massive pair of statues known as the Colossi of Memnon are the first monuments we see during our morning visit to the West Bank - home to the legendary Valley of the Kings. We also see the colonnaded Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Return to Luxor for check-in onboard our Nile 5 star cruiser where lunch is at leisure and free time to relax until our early evening visit to the Temple of Luxor. Luxor Temple looks stunning at dusk and is beautifully illuminated at night.
Note: Dependent upon Nile Cruiser scheduling it may be required that we also undertake our excursion to Karnak Temple this afternoon. Should this occur, day 5 will be spent at leisure.
Day 5 Luxor & Nile Cruising
Day 5 Luxor & Nile Cruising
Luxor - Nile cruising. This morning we tour the ancient city of Thebes (the East Bank) and take in the magnificent Temple of Karnak. More than a temple, Karnak is a gigantic and stunning complex of sanctuaries and pylons dedicated to the Theban gods. Anchors away this afternoon as we set sail downstream.
Day 6 Cruising & Kom Ombo
Day 6 Cruising & Kom Ombo
Nile cruising. Relax and soak in the views as we sail the Nile. Later today we visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique riverside temple. It is unusual in that everything architecturally is doubled and perfectly symmetrical along the main axis of the temple including twin halls, courts, colonnades, sanctuaries and entrances. Arrive in Aswan late evening - a prosperous town at the crossroads of the ancient caravan routes.
Day 7 Beautiful Philae Temple
Day 7 Beautiful Philae Temple
Nile cruiser - Aswan. Today, we enjoy a short boat trip to Agilika Island to explore Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. The temple dates from 4th century BC, but the Ptolemies and the Romans up to 3rd century AD built most of the existing structures. In danger of being completely submerged by the rising water of Lake Nasser, in 1972 UNESCO stepped in and an 8-year rescue effort was undertaken to relocate the entire temple 20m higher on nearby Agilika Island. We then make a stop at a perfume oil emporium. Perfumed oils in Egypt date back to 2700BC and were used by women, pharaohs and by temple priests.
After lunch, we visit the High Dam and take a traditional felucca sailing trip to Elephantine and Kitchener Island. As the sun sets, enjoy free time to shop in the colourful souqs and markets or simply relax and watch an amazing sunset in Egypt’s southernmost town straddling the River Nile.
Day 8 Optional excursion to Abu Simbel
Day 8 Optional excursion to Abu Simbel
Aswan - Cairo. Consider our optional early morning excursion to the Temples of Ramses II at Abu Simbel. 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. This excursion is not to be missed!
Alternatively you can spend the morning at leisure. If you choose not to embark upon this optional excursion, there is plenty to do in Aswan. You can explore Aswan with its beautiful shoreline and corniche or perhaps do a spot of shopping. Late this afternoon, we board the overnight train (twin berth sleeper cabins provided) for our journey back to Cairo. A light dinner is served on board.
Day 9 Explore Cairo your way
Day 9 Explore Cairo your way
This morning, have breakfast in your train cabin and upon arrival to Cairo we transfer to our hotel for check in. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the hotel facilities or you can join our optional tour of Old Cairo, Coptic Cairo and the Citadel of Saladin (book/pay locally).
Day 10 Cairo
Day 10 Cairo
Sunday. Our amazing holiday comes to an end and we bid farewell to our guide and fellow travellers. Included airport departure transfer.
For information about visas, top travel tips and much more, take a look through our travel guide.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Just footsteps away from the Great Pyramids of Giza is the Cairo Pyramids Hotel. Combining ancient history with world-class hospitality, the hotel is the perfect base for sightseeing. Guestrooms are spacious and comfortable, with friendly staff offering 24-hour room service. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to food, with four restaurants offering international and local specialities. Enjoy stunning views of the pyramids from the lush gardens and end your day with a refreshing dip in the pool.
Situated on the banks of the River Nile in the heart of the capital, the luxury InterContinental Semiramis is conveniently located next to the Egyptian Museum and the bustling bazaars of Old Cairo. The tastefully appointed guest rooms have been designed with comfort in mind, with all modern amenities and balconies offering Nile or city views. The hotel's large rooftop pool is perfect for a refreshing dip and with 12 restaurants offering cuisine from across the world there's certainly no shortage of dining options. At the end of the day, head to the Nile Terrace to watch a spectacular sunset over the Nile, with a cool drink in hand.
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.
The Hyatt Regency Cairo West Hotel is located less than 15km from Giza, boasting views of the Pyramids in the distance. These views are best soaked up from the hotel's garden and terrace, or from The Plaza bar which directly overlooks the Giza Pyramids. There's also an outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. There are dining opportunities aplenty, with five separate onsite restaurants serving a variety of cuisine, including Spanish, Italian, Japanese and Peruvian. The Hyatt's 250 guest rooms are modern and bright, with large floor-to-ceiling windows offering great views of Giza for guests staying on the right side of the hotel! Rooms also boast marble bathrooms, TV, blackout curtains, coffee machines, a minibar, and security safe.
The recently renovated Sheraton Cairo Hotel, Towers and Casino is a stylish, contemporary hotel with fantastic views over the Nile. The rooms are particularly spacious with large bright windows, complimentary WiFi and all of the modern amenities required to ensure a comfortable stay. If you're feeling lucky head to the casino, or relax in the spa tub and soak up the sun by the large outdoor pool. The hotel has a choice of three restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a tasty meal and refreshing drinks after taking in the ancient wonders of Egypt's capital city.
Movenpick MS Royal Lotus is a 5-star deluxe Nile cruise that will enable you to discover the ruins of Ancient Egypt with style and comfort. This cruiser is appointed with elegant accommodations of 60 cabins and 2 magnificent Royal Suites. The cruiser features a range of leisure activities with a plunge pool and jacuzzi surrounded by a spacious sun deck, along with a spa and gymnasium with amazing views of the Nile. The restaurant offers both international and local cuisine in both buffet and a la Carte styles, with a selection of bars for enjoying a sunset cocktail whilst taking in the breathtaking views.
MS Farah is an elegant, first-class experience combined with an old-world spirit of adventure and state-of-the-art comfort. The MS Farah ship offers 60 deluxe cabins and 2 Royal Suites that feature luxurious comfort with oversized windows that are virtually wall-sized and boast the most magnificent views of the passing banks of the Nile. Relax with onboard features, including fitness and spa services, pool and sun deck, gourmet dining, and a caring crew who help create the wonderful onboard experience. A variety of regional and international cuisine can be enjoyed at the lavish restaurant, with breakfast and lunch served in a buffet style and dinner a la carte, with one night a week offering an Egyptian buffet.
MS Moon Dance Nile Cruise is a floating hotel, designed for luxury 5 star cruising on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. It offers exquisite comfort for up to 132 passengers with its 60 cabins and 8 suites, which provide an ideal refuge for relaxation, along with a variety of enterainment and recreation on board. All rooms have a range a facilities you would expect from a luxury hotel, and enjoy panoramic view windows to take in the wonders of the Nile. On board the cruise, features include a luxurious lounge bar; plunge pool, sun deck with bar; beauty salon; spa and fitness equipment and gift shop. Breakfast and lunch are served as an open buffet, with a delicious variety of French, Italian and local specialties, whilst dinner is served on a la carte and buffet basis, with a fine list of international and local cuisine.
The M/S Hamees is a luxury cruise boat with outside cabins facing the Nile.
The modern and luxurious M/S Nile Premium cruise boat boasts stylish cabins equipped with all modern amenities and large panoramic windows. Facilities on board include a fitness centre, spacious deck with swimming pool, large restaurant and cocktail bar. Grab a good book and a refreshing beverage and relax on the Sund Deck - the perfect way to spend the day. The M/S Nile Premium sets sail on Mondays on a 4 and 7 night cruise from Luxor and on Fridays on a 3 and 7 night cruise from Aswan.
Tour Reviews
The Jewel of the Nile tour was amazing from start to finish. There was just so much to see and do, and all of it fascinating. The hotels were all great (the upgrade to flights from overnight train and subsequent stay at the Movenpick in Aswan a right treat), all transport air conditioned and comfortable, and I don’t feel we missed anything out - getting to see all the important sights and adding on Abu Simbel for its exceptionality. Plenty of well chosen shopping opportunities I took full advantage of. My top highlights were the Egyptian Museum (had that real dusty artifact of old, museum feel), the Valley of the Kings (Ramses V & VI tombs as recommended by our guide were exceptional) and the Old Cataract hotel. Our tour guide, Helal, was so enthusiastic and passionate about Egyptian history you couldn’t help but get sucked in. Hands down the best tour guide I’ve had - and he had to deal with some difficult personalities too, but was so kind about it all. Nothing was too much trouble for him - he sourced me a copy of Death on the Nile to read on our Nile cruise and he took a group of us over to The Old Cataract and managed to get a rare exception so we could privately visit Agatha Christie’s suite and her balcony view - as a British writer this was such a treat. Cocktails on the terrace overlooking the Nile after was *chef’s kiss* Thank you again for such a beautiful experience, Helal! Highly recommend this tour (company, tour itself and guide) to anyone looking for a fantastic experience in Egypt. I felt safe travelling as a solo female traveller the whole time, and I was lucky to have such a wonderful group of people on my tour - 9 of us total. A additional thank you to Tonga, the Cairo rep, for sneaking me through staff security at Cairo airport on my return so I didn’t have to queue at all! Hands down a 5* holiday!
The tour was amazing and l could not have had a better tour guide Sherif was extremely knowledgeable and looked after everyone throughout our 10 days touring beautiful Egypt.
We just returned from our Egypt tour a couple of weeks ago and cannot stop talking about how amazing it was. I especially want to thank Medo for being the best tour guide ever. My teenagers, husband and I truly felt like family to him immediately and were mesmerized by his passion and knowledge about Egyptian history. He single-handedly made our trip once in a lifetime.
Fantastic trip - Well organised, took in all the sights I wanted to see, excellent service & great guide.
I have done a variety of tours in my past travels but none shape up to this. Egypt blew my mind and I think we were incredibly lucky to have Helal as our tour guide. You can see how passionate he is about Egyptology and no matter how tired we may have been from a huge day of travel he always made sure we were looked after. My only tiny suggestion is if theres another way to have large suitcases transported between locations for the nights spent on the sleeper train, with the rooms being so small you can only fit your luggage and that's about it. However I can appreciate most people would want to keep them close by. I would not have traded the experience on the train for anything though, it may be small but so much fun exploring the train and watching Egypt roll by the window. I'm very thankful on the go got us up and going early to arrive at the temples early so we could see so much before the sun got too hot everyday and returning to the hotel or to the cruise in the afternoon for a few hours of relaxation was perfect. Once again a big big thank you to Helal. We could overhear other tour guides and how quickly they would run over the topics at each site. Helal however took us to spots that others didn't and made sure we knew the reasons why. It made each temple so much more enjoyable. The hotels were great, the Nile cruise was FANTASTIC, so comfortable and swimming in the pool while sailing down the nile at sunset won't be forgotten quickly. A perfect holiday, a perfect group of new friends for life and two very happy customers. Thank you!
Extras and add-ons
Alexandria Day Trip
Carry on your Egyptian affair before or after your tour, with a day trip (including lunch) to amazing Alexandria on the Mediterranean Coast. Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria boasts wonderful beaches and an impressive seafront corniche, along which are dotted cafes and restaurants, as well as catacombs, a fortress, souks and relics from a bygone age.
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.
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.
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