Egypt Pyramids, Temples & Nile Cultural Discovery Tour
Magnificent Monuments, Mighty River & Luxury Hotels
On this spellbinding adventure through Egypt, discover an age-old land of mysterious tombs, majestic temples, and iconic pyramids. Explore Cairo, one of the world's most fascinating capitals, brimming with world-class museums and historic monuments that have stood the test of time. Journey through mind-blowing deserts, ride a camel across the sands, and cruise the mighty Nile on a traditional sailboat for four days. Visit Luxor and the Valley of the Kings and Queens, see the Karnak Temple Complex, and marvel at dazzling archaeological wonders expertly guided by an Egyptologist.
On this spellbinding adventure through Egypt, discover an age-old land of mysterious tombs, majestic temples, and iconic pyramids. Explore Cairo, one of the world's most fascinating capitals, brimming with world-class museums and historic monuments that have stood the test of time. Journey through mind-blowing deserts, ride a camel across the sands, and cruise the mighty Nile on a traditional sailboat for four days. Visit Luxor and the Valley of the Kings and Queens, see the Karnak Temple Complex, and marvel at dazzling archaeological wonders expertly guided by an Egyptologist.
Behold the breathtaking beauty of the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the world's most impressive sights
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Take in the legendary highlights of bustling Cairo, guided by a professional Egyptologist
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Relax aboard a deluxe riverboat for a 4-day exploration of the enchanting River Nile
Arrive in Cairo on a late flight and meet your MT Sobek representative at the airport for the transfer to your hotel.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence
Discover Cairo & the Great Pyramids of Giza
Day 2
After a brief orientation, head out for a guided tour of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, to see golden treasures from King Tutenkhamun's tomb. Have lunch at a local restaurant and set out to see the Great Pyramids of Giza. Enjoy a camel ride across the sands and visit the temple of the mysterious Sphinx. Enjoy a welcome dinner back at the hotel.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence
Activity: Cultural touring and camel ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour the Pyramids of Dahshur & Sakkara
Day 3
Today head out to visit the spectacular Dahshur Pyramids, an ancient royal necropolis approximately 25 miles south of Cairo. Take in the famed Bent Pyramid, unusual for its angled sides, and the Red Pyramid, the fourth highest pyramid ever built in Egypt, with almost 160 layers of stone. Have lunch at a local restaurant and drive on to the vast Sakkara complex, to see the step pyramid of King Zoser, the first freestanding stone structure in the world, and tour the ancient tombs with incredible wall art.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence
Activity: Cultural touring
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly to Luxor & Explore the Temples of Karnak & Luxor
Day 4
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, head out for a guided tour of the Karnak Temple, built over more than a thousand years by generations of pharaohs. Marvel at its great Hypostyle Hall, an incredible forest of giant pillars. Transfer to your hotel and set out for a guided sunset visit of the temple of Luxor, a strikingly graceful spot dedicated to the god of Amun-Ra. This evening enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant in town.
Accommodation: Hotel Al Moudira
Activity: Cultural touring
Transportation: 1-hour 10-minute flight transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover the Ancient Sites of Dendera & Abydos
Day 5
After breakfast, drive north of Luxor along the banks of the Nile to Dendera. Visit the ancient site of Abydos, the burial place for pre-dynastic kings and pharaohs. This center of a holy city dedicated to Osiris, King of the Underworld, has striking relief-covered walls. Enjoy a boxed lunch and move on to the Ptolemaic Temple of Hathor, goddess of pleasure and love, a wonderfully preserved complex complete with a massive stone roof, underground passages, and towering columns inscribed with hieroglyphs. Return to Luxor in the evening.
Accommodation: Hotel Al Moudira
Activity: Cultural touring
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit the Valleys of the Kings & Queens & Sail on the Nile
Day 6
Early this morning, check out and take an (optional) balloon ride over the western bank (at additional cost) or relax over a leisurely breakfast. Together, head out to visit the Valley of the Kings, a remarkable necropolis with over 60 magnificent royal tombs carved into the desert rocks. Move on to the Valley of the Queens to marvel at the dazzling masterpiece of Egyptian ancient art, the Tomb of Nefertari, a shrine to the beauty of Ramses II pharaoh's favorite queen. In a restricted area not open to the public, enjoy an exclusive audience with Dr. Bahaa Gaber, Head of the West Bank Antiquities. Dr. Gaber will share his insight about the Royal Tombs, behind the scenes stories related to the latest digs and finds at The West Bank of Luxor, and exclusive updates on the most recent discoveries by the archeological missions. Transfer to your private dahabiya, a traditional sailing boat, for lunch and then set sail on the Nile.
Accommodation: Albatros Dahabiya Boat
Activity: Cultural touring
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cruise the Nile to the Ancient Sites of El-Kab & Edfu
Day 7
After breakfast on the boat, cruise to El-Kab, one of the oldest settlements of Upper Egypt, and visit the tombs of the governors and the ruins of the temple where Hathor and Horus used to meet. Enjoy lunch on board during the cruise down the Nile. Disembark to visit the majestic Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon-headed god of Horus. This evening, enjoy a BBQ dinner on Fawaza Island.
Accommodation: Albatros Dahabiya Boat
Activity: Cultural Nile cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit El Ramadi & Djebel Silsila
Day 8
Savor breakfast on the boat, then cruise to El Ramadi, an old fishing village on the Nile. Enjoy lunch while cruising to the ancient site of Djebel Silsila, where you'll visit a temple from the Horemheb era and a quarry where sandstone for the temples was extracted. Have dinner on board in front of the temple.
Accommodation: Albatros Dahabiya Boat
Activity: Cultural Nile cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour the Temple of Kom Ombo
Day 9
Have breakfast on the boat and cruise the Nile. Visit the temple of Kom Ombo, an unusual double temple built during the Ptolemaic period, from 108 to 47 BC. This stunning place of worship is dedicated to two triads of deities. One set consists of Sobek (crocodile god of the Nile), Hathor, and their child Khonsu; the other consists of Haroeris, Tasenetnofret, and their child Panebtawy. Return to the boat and enjoy lunch onboard along the way toward Aswan.
Accommodation: Albatros Dahabiya Boat
Activity: Cultural Nile cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly to Abu Simbel Temple & Back to Cairo
Day 10
Disembark after the last breakfast on the boat and transfer to the Aswan airport for your flight to Abu Simbel. Upon arrival, drive on to the Great Temple of Ramses II on the banks of Lake Nasser. This complex of two temples is carved out of sandstone cliff and fronted by colossal statues. After witnessing this monumental site, board a flight from Abu Simbel to Cairo and meet your MT Sobek representative to transfer to the hotel.
Accommodation: Nile Ritz Carlton Accommodation: Fairmont Nile City
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer and 1.5-hour flight
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Islamic & Coptic Cairo
Day 11
After breakfast take a tour of Islamic Cairo, including the majestic Mohamed Ali Mosque and the medieval Citadel perched on a hill above the city. Also visit the mausoleum for the royal family of Egypt. Enjoy lunch at the famous Azhar Park restaurant with splendid views of old Cairo, then head out for a tour of Coptic Cairo, featuring the Babylon Fortress, the Hanging Church (supported by only one column), and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Enjoy your farewell dinner at the hotel.
Accommodation: Nile Ritz Carlton Accommodation: Fairmont Nile City
Activity: Cultural touring
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bid Farewell to Cairo
Day 12
Enjoy your last buffet breakfast in Cairo, check out and transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
MT Sobek skillfully covers Egypt's fascinating archaeological wonders and iconic pyramids on this perfectly paced 12-day cultural discovery tour.
Experience four nights of scenic sailing on the Nile aboard a private dahabiya, a traditional sailing boat—all included as part of this epic itinerary.
We work with local expert guides and knowledgeable Egyptologists to give you deep insights into modern-day and ancient Egyptian life.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Maged M.
Maged graduated from Cairo University with degrees in both Business Administration and Egyptology before becoming a guide in 2003. Over the years, guiding inspired him to pursue his passion in photography, where he specializes in people, culture, and events. In his free time, he acts as an Arabic to English translator for foreign delegates and volunteers with organizations that support children and the elderly.
Hassan A.
Born in Aswan, Hassan graduated from college with a degree in Tourism and Hotel Management and a post graduate degree in Egyptology. He has been in the industry of tourism and guiding since 1992, sharing the marvelous sites and cultures of his country with people from all over the world. Besides his great passion for history, culture and archeology, Hassan is an enthusiastic reader, constantly looking to expand his knowledge about the world.
Arrive in Cairo on a late flight and meet your MT Sobek representative at the airport for the transfer to your hotel.
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Today head out to visit the spectacular Dahshur Pyramids, an ancient royal necropolis approximately 25 miles south of Cairo. Take in the famed Bent Pyramid, unusual for its angled sides, and the Red Pyramid, the fourth highest pyramid ever built in Egypt, with almost 160 layers of stone. Have lunch at a local restaurant and drive on to the vast Sakkara complex, to see the step pyramid of King Zoser, the first freestanding stone structure in the world, and tour the ancient tombs with incredible wall art.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, head out for a guided tour of the Karnak Temple, built over more than a thousand years by generations of pharaohs. Marvel at its great Hypostyle Hall, an incredible forest of giant pillars. Transfer to your hotel and set out for a guided sunset visit of the temple of Luxor, a strikingly graceful spot dedicated to the god of Amun-Ra. This evening enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant in town.
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Early this morning, check out and take an (optional) balloon ride over the western bank (at additional cost) or relax over a leisurely breakfast. Together, head out to visit the Valley of the Kings, a remarkable necropolis with over 60 magnificent royal tombs carved into the desert rocks. Move on to the Valley of the Queens to marvel at the dazzling masterpiece of Egyptian ancient art, the Tomb of Nefertari, a shrine to the beauty of Ramses II pharaoh\'s favorite queen. In a restricted area not open to the public, enjoy an exclusive audience with Dr. Bahaa Gaber, Head of the West Bank Antiquities. Dr. Gaber will share his insight about the Royal Tombs, behind the scenes stories related to the latest digs and finds at The West Bank of Luxor, and exclusive updates on the most recent discoveries by the archeological missions. Transfer to your private dahabiya, a traditional sailing boat, for lunch and then set sail on the Nile.
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Savor breakfast on the boat, then cruise to El Ramadi, an old fishing village on the Nile. Enjoy lunch while cruising to the ancient site of Djebel Silsila, where you\'ll visit a temple from the Horemheb era and a quarry where sandstone for the temples was extracted. Have dinner on board in front of the temple.
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After breakfast take a tour of Islamic Cairo, including the majestic Mohamed Ali Mosque and the medieval Citadel perched on a hill above the city. Also visit the mausoleum for the royal family of Egypt. Enjoy lunch at the famous Azhar Park restaurant with splendid views of old Cairo, then head out for a tour of Coptic Cairo, featuring the Babylon Fortress, the Hanging Church (supported by only one column), and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Enjoy your farewell dinner at the hotel.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 1. You will be touring cities, villages, and exploring archaeological sites on foot and by cruising. While none of the walking is particularly difficult, some days you'll be on your feet for much of the day. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
Cultural touring and camel ride
Day 3
Cultural touring
Day 4
Cultural touring
Day 5
Cultural touring
Day 6
Cultural touring
Day 7
Cultural Nile cruise
Day 8
Cultural Nile cruise
Day 9
Cultural Nile cruise
Day 11
Cultural touring
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
A boutique palace hotel in Luxor, a private sailing boat on the Nile, and luxury city hotels in Cairo to bookend the trip in style.
Among Cairo's most exclusive addresses, this five-star property is flanked by lush botanical gardens and the western bank of the Nile. Elegant rooms come with French-style furnishings, river views, and a full spectrum of amenities like Wi-Fi and plush robes. Lounge by the pool, savor delicious Lebanese food at Aura restaurant, and unwind with an aromatic massage.
With ochre domes, ornate patios and gorgeous gardens, this boutique palace hideaway on the west bank of the Nile is a dreamy base for exploring Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. The high-ceilinged rooms showcase unique decor, with hand-painted murals and engravings. The swimming pool and Turkish bath make for a perfect spot to unwind; the Pavillion restaurant serves fusion fare.
This river cruise is an excellent way to experience the wonders of Egypt between Luxor and Aswan. Watching the sunset from the deck is a rare opportunity to enjoy exclusive access to the Nile River, onboard a fully equipped river cruiser. Amenities include air conditioning, full bath and shower setups, internet connection, and LCD flat screen TVs. All meals are included on board, and the local guides enjoy sharing anecdotes of ancient history on this culturally rich and exciting section of the Nile.
Situated along the Nile River in a quiet and upscale district, the Nile Ritz-Carlton is right in the heart of Cairo's social and business scenes. From its rooftop, panoramic views encompass Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum. With a lavish spa, pool, 24/7 fitness center, and 9 different restaurants, guests can unwind after a long flight and see the adventure before them from their luxurious scenic rooms.
On the banks of the Nile River, discover a place where five-star luxuries such as a rooftop pool and spa with hydrotherapy and massage treatments meet traditional touches including local singers and belly dancers in one of several tempting eateries. Rooms are styled with a nod to Art Deco, yet offer today's comforts in a rain shower, bathtub, Wi-Fi, and views of Cairo cityscapes or the iconic Nile.
Weather
Weather is moderate with the heat peaking June - August. Winters are very mild with little rainfall. Desert winters can be much colder than the rest of the country.
Jan
Feb
Oct
Nov
Dec
Cairo
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Cairo
66
49
69
51
86
68
77
60
69
52
El Kab
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
El Kab
75
47
77
50
95
70
84
59
76
51
Luxor
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Luxor
73
45
78
48
96
67
85
56
76
47
FAQs
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Egypt?
You do not need to take any vaccinations to visit Egypt.
Do I need to follow a special dress code for Egypt?
Around town, at historic sites, and on the cruise you can dress as you do on a normal hot summer's day back home. When entering mosques keep legs covered with long trousers or long skirts, and women should also cover as much bare skin as much as possible, especially shoulders, and wear a scarf over the head.
Do I need a visa to enter Egypt?
Yes, tourist visas are available on arrival for US Citizens.
What type of vehicles does this trip use to get around?
We use a wide range of vehicles including jeeps, buses, and luxury coaches. They are all operated by experienced, multi lingual, qualified drivers to ensure that your trips are comfortable and safe.
What's the food like in Egypt?
Egyptian food is generally similar to many other Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, including stuffed vine leaves, grilled meats, and numerous "dips" traditionally eaten with pitta-style bread. Rice with vegetables in tomato sauce, and pasta dishes baked in a similar way to lasagna, are both common. Specialties include stuffed or spit broiled pigeons, shish kebabs made of marinated chunks of lamb and spices, then grilled over hot charcoal and small ground lamb kebabs called kofta. Seafood is a good choice with prawns from the Red Sea, sea bass from the Mediterranean and a wonderful fish dish, tilapia, from the Nile. We've ensured you'll dine on some of Egypt's best food during your adventure!
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our family friendly departures and private trip options for groups with younger guests.
"Great experience every time with some of the most knowledgeable guides in their fields. We always come home with wonderful memories of the people we meet and things we see."
Bob J. MT Sobek Guest
"We have traveled throughout the world, but never experienced a level of service and attention to detail as we did with MT Sobek."