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Delve into the local lifestyle, culture and customs, cruise the Nile and descend into ancient tombs over this 13 day tour.
Immerse yourself in a time of great wealth and power, of magnificent temples, elaborate ceremonies and incredible pyramids. Delve into the local lifestyle, culture and customs, cruise the Nile and descend into ancient tombs. Discover the contrasts and history of the country’s north and explore bustling Cairo.
Explore Egypt's ancient wonders, from the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor, on a small group Bunnik Tour for an unforgettable journey through history and culture.
Group Size — Max 20
Tips — Total cost includes - Tipping Made Easy, from $240pp pre-paid
Transport — Coach, Felucca sailboat, Nile River cruise & Plane
Inclusions
Travel
Return economy-class flights from Australia to Egypt. Taxes included
2 economy-class flights within Egypt
Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
4-night Nile River cruise
Tipping Made Easy, $240pp pre-paid
Meals
13 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
Accommodation
9 nights in 4-5 star hotels
4 nights in an outside cabin on board a 5 star (Egyptian standard) luxury Nile River cruise
Properties include:
Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino, Cairo
Helnan Palestine Hotel, Alexandria
Le Meridien Cairo Airport, Cairo
Steigenberger Nile Palace, Luxor
Movenpick Royal Lily, Nile Cruise
Movenpick Resort, Aswan
Hotels & Cruise ship listed are an indication, and are subject to change without notice.
Sightseeing
Unlock the mysteries of Egypt's ancient civilization
Discover the Great Pyramids of Giza and the famous Sphinx
Visit the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, the statue of Ramses II, and the old capital of Memphis
Be fascinated by Alexandria, the 'Pearl of the Mediterranean’
Visit Alexandria’s National Museum, Pompey's Pillar, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, New Bibliotheca, Montazah Palace, and see the Citadel of Qaitbey
Pay homage at the Battlefield Cemetery and Military Museum of El Alamein
Visit the beautiful Luxor and Karnak Temples
Half day tour of Dendera Temple complex
Explore the West Bank, including the Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Kings (where we enter some of the tombs of the pharaohs) and the massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Entry into Tutankhamun’s Tomb
Unwind on a four-night luxury cruise on the Nile from Luxor to Aswan
Travel to the magnificent Temple of Horus (the Falcon God) in Edfu
Visit the Temple of Kom Ombo
Enjoy a Galabeya party whilst cruising the Nile
Visit the temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari at Abu Simbel
Explore Aswan including the High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, and the beautiful Philae Temple on Agilkia Island
Travel by felucca to a Nubian village and enjoy lunch with a Nubian family in their home
Explore the world-renowned Egyptian Museum
Visit the Mohammed Ali Mosque, the Saladin Citadel of Cairo and the centuries-old Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Ramadan is observed from 22 March to 21 April 2023.
Due to local laws and regulations, the only mode of transport available to visit the Temple of Horus in Edfu is by horse and carriage. You are welcome to explore Edfu independently or stay on board the cruise to enjoy the ship’s facilities if you would prefer.
The luxury Nile cruise is not a private charter, and is shared with non-Bunnik passengers. Due to the limited space for docking along the Nile, ships bank together when stopped. Therefore in some cases, you may need to walk through as many as six ships to enter and exit our cruise ship. The Nile Cruises featured on all tourist itineraries to Egypt operate between the cities of Luxor and Aswan. These cities lie only 240 kilometres apart which means this distance could easily be covered in only 1 or 2 days without stops. However, due to logistical and scheduling reasons the cruises are offered only as 3, 4 and 7 night packages. This allows for extensive sightseeing along the way and, as such, much of the time is spent in port in Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo or Aswan. Each cruise itinerary will however, have an element of day-time cruising allowing us to relax and see life along the river.
Note on Esna Lock and Itinerary Schedule: Please note that due to the high volume of river traffic all cruise itineraries are subject to change without notice. The order and timing of sightseeing may therefore change however all inclusions will remain the same. Similarly travel through the Esna Lock is subject to river traffic and local conditions which means we may pass through the lock during the night or have an extended wait prior to entering the lock.
Optional excursions:
Timing & practicability of optional excursions are subject to several external factors, such as internal flight timings, weather & traffic conditions. For optional excursions ex Cairo, pre &/or post-tour accommodation is recommended to allow sufficient time. Further optional excursions not listed may be offered by your guide throughout the tour.All optional tours are based on a minimum of 2 participants (unless otherwise stated) and are subject to availability. The length of tours advised is an approximate only. Tours can be booked on tour directly with your Tour Director or guide. We recommend arranging the booking at the beginning of the tour to avoid disappointment. Please note some optional tours may also be available on multiple or alternate days. Prices are a guide only and are subject to change without prior notice. Payment by cash is preferred as there are no guarantees that credit card facilities will be available. Please check with your Tour Director or guide locally for information relating to this. Credit card fees and exchange rates are at the discretion of your bank.
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Australia
Day 2
Arrive Cairo
Welcome to Egypt, a country renowned for its rich history and awe-inspiring world wonders. Our journey begins in Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital and the largest city in Africa. Here, ancient and modern worlds blend seamlessly, creating a fascinating experience for travellers.
We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 6.00pm.
We’ll enjoy some free time to freshen up, before meeting our fellow travellers at a group welcome dinner this evening.
(Dinner)
Day 3
Cairo – Giza – Cairo
We’re set for a magical day of touring, visiting some of the sites that frequently top traveller’s bucket lists. We begin our Egyptian touring at the oldest structures in existence and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the amazing Great Pyramids of Giza. Serving as the tomb of the pharaoh Khufu, the largest pyramid was originally 481 feet high and has managed to stay largely intact since its construction in 2600 BC. The two slightly smaller pyramids were built for Khufu’s son, Khafre, and grandson, Menkaure, likewise as burial places for three generations of Egyptian kings.
We’ll then visit the nearby Great Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a king, often referred to as the national symbol of Egypt. This iconic statue is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre and is thought to represent him, yet its construction and purpose remains a fascinating mystery.
Special Experience
Take in the incredible views of the Great Pyramids of Giza while enjoying a delicious lunch at the 9 Pyramids Lounge
At the 9 Pyramids Lounge, we’re treated to delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, but the best bit? The view! This unique restaurant is unlike anything you’ve been to before. Offering panoramic views of the majestic pyramids surrounded by desert, the pictures you’ll take here are guaranteed to be incredible.
This afternoon, we visit the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza, located a short distance from the pyramids themselves. One of the largest, most modern and renowned museums in the entire world, the GEM is home to over 100,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts. We’re greeted by a 3,200 year old and 83-ton statue of Ramses II in the GEM’s main entrance, so you know we’re in for a real treat exploring this fascinating place!
Please note: The Grand Egyptian Museum partially opened in October 2024. Your visit will include main galleries currently available to the public. We will also continue to visit the Egyptian Museum, where Tutankhamun’s collection still is displayed, until the GEM’s official opening date. This date will be announced by the Government of Egypt in the near future.
(Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 4
Cairo - Alexandria
After breakfast we will travel to the beautiful city of Alexandria on Egypt’s north coast. The port city located on the Mediterranean Sea was founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great. Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt and is best known for the Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
En route, we’ll stop at Wadi el Natroun, a once important location for ancient Egyptians. An area rich in sodium salts and carbonates, the elements found here were utilised during the mummification process.
We will take a half day tour around Alexandria and visit the Graeco Roman Museum, home to an array of artifacts from the Greco-Roman era that provide a fascinating glimpse into the civilisation of ancient Egypt. Other highlights include Pompey’s Pillar, the Catacombs, and the New Bibliotheca. Our last stop is for a photo at the Citadel of Qaitbay, a spectacular 15th century fortress overlooking the Mediterranean.
(Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 5
Alexandria - El Alamein - Cairo
Our journey takes us westward through the winding dunes along the Mediterranean coast, following the historic path of Field Marshal Montgomery to El Alamein. This coastal town is steeped in history and was once the site of two pivotal battles between British and Axis forces during World War II. These battles became a crucial turning point in World War II’s North African campaign, with the Allied forces then able to invade Italy.
Special Experience
Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery and Military Museum associated with the Battle of El Alamein.
The Commonwealth War Cemetery encompasses 7,367 tombs of war victims from all over Britain, New Zealand, Australia, France, India and Malta. We’ll also stop to visit the El Alamein Military Museum including five main halls (representing the countries that participated in the battle) and view the unique, and incredibly moving, paintings of the war scenes.
Later this afternoon, we’ll head back to bustling Cairo, where the night is at leisure.
(Breakfast)
Day 6
Cairo - Luxor
This morning we say goodbye to the Egyptian capital and fly to Luxor in Upper Egypt. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the city surrounds two huge, surviving ancient monuments.
Upon arrival we’ll begin sightseeing with a visit to the fascinating Karnak Temple, dedicated to the Pharaoh Amun. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to the temple’s structure over time, which explains its monumental size! This extraordinary complex covers more than 2 square-kilometres, and it was built, restored, and decorated over a 1,500 year time period. It was built as a cult temple, and was dedicated to the gods Amun, Mut and Khonsu.
We’ll then visit Luxor Temple, connected to Karnak Temple by a 3-kilometre-long Avenue of Sphinxes. Luxor Temple is also home to a 25-metre-tall pink granite obelisk, which was part of a matching pair until the 1830s when one was given to France. It now stands in the centre of the Place de la Concorde in Paris. We’ll also visit a local gallery to appreciate the ancient artform of papyrus craft, with an opportunity to purchase the artwork to take home.
(Breakfast)
Day 7
Luxor
Special Experience
Take a half-day tour to Dendera Temple complex and see one of the best-preserved temples and most important sites of ancient Egypt, the Temple of Hathor (the goddess of pleasure and love).
The main temple of Dendera is dedicated to the goddess Hathor, who’s associated with love, pleasure, beauty and music. Beauty can be seen everywhere in this complex, with well-preserved artwork and reliefs found within the temple reflecting religious rituals and mythological stories. Its exquisite detailing and vibrant colours make Dendera Temple complex a fascinating location to uncover.
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to relax or explore at your own pace.
Optional Excursion
Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
(Breakfast)
Day 8
Luxor - Nile Cruise
This morning we discover the sights of Luxor on a half day tour. Our first destination is the spectacular Valley of the Kings. Serving as a royal burial chamber for around 500 years, it is home to legendary kings and queens, their families, and their possessions for the afterlife. Here we’ll explore tombs carved deep into the limestone rock, where each tomb has a similar pattern of three corridors, an antechamber and a sarcophagus chamber.
Special Experience
Descend underground into Tutankhamun’s Tomb, adorned with intricate corridors, ancient artefacts, and well-preserved hieroglyphic paintings.
Our next destination is the spectacular Temple of Hatshepsut. Queen Hatshepsut was one of only a few women to be given the title of pharaoh. We’ll then visit the Colossi of Memnon, a historic landmark consisting of two massive statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. We then stop at a nearby alabaster workshop, to learn how the locally quarried stone is carved and crafted.
This afternoon we embark on our Nile River cruise ship. Lunch is served on board and the rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy at leisure.
Optional Excursion
Hot Air Balloon Ride over the West Bank in the early morning. Includes transport from hotel. 1.5 hours – from $170pp US. Cash only.
Optional Excursion
Luxor Museum – Discover one of Egypt’s best museums, boasting some of the country’s best-preserved artefacts. The Luxor Museum is home to an abundance of ancient antiquities from the Theban region, featuring statues, pottery, jewellery and well-preserved mummies. 1.5 hours – from $60pp US. Cash only.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 9
Nile Cruise
Enjoy the morning on board your riverboat, then set off and spend the afternoon cruising along the Nile as we set sail for Edfu, so kick back and relax as you take in the serene views of the passing Nile River.
We’ll also pass through the Esna Lock to continue our journey south. Situated near the town of Esna along the river, this crucial piece of infrastructure is designed to manage the Nile’s flow and allows vessels to bypass the Esna Barrage, a dam that regulates water for irrigation purposes. Constructed in the 20th century, the lock ensures continuous river navigation despite varying water levels and seasonal changes.
Optional Excursion
Deir El Medina & Medinet Habu – Visit one of the most well-preserved ancient settlements in Egypt and the Mortuary Temple of Ramses ll. 3 hours – minimum 4 participants required – from $105pp US, including Nobles Tombs; from $160pp US, including Nefertari’s Tomb (subject to open times). Cash Only
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 10
Nile Cruise
Located on the west bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan, you will find the small city of Edfu. This Egyptian city has a population of approximately sixty thousand people. It is famous for the Temple of Horus, dedicated to the Falcon God, the main attraction which we’ll visit this morning by bus transfer. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak Temple.
We’ll then cruise to the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. It’s an usual ‘double’ temple, meaning that this complex honours two gods, and remnants of Sobek’s crocodiles and Horus’ falcons can be seen throughout their respective sides.
Departing Kom Ombo in the early evening, we continue on to Aswan. Tonight, we enjoy a traditional (and fun!) Galabeya party on board.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 11
Nile Cruise
An early start this morning as we cross the expansive desert to Abu Simbel. Our destination is the incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed twin temples of Abu Simbel. The temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. We will spend a few hours exploring the temples before returning to our Nile cruise ship.
This afternoon we’ll relax on board a traditional felucca sailboat, cruising along the Nile and observing life along the banks of the river as our boat takes advantage of the gentle winds and currents.
Optional Excursion
Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 12
Nile Cruise - Aswan
Today, we disembark the Nile cruise ship and bid farewell to the amazing crew. Our day will be spent exploring the incredible sights of Aswan.
Our first stop of the day is the enchanting Philae Temple, a temple that was relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from rising waters during the High Dam’s construction. It’s dedicated to the goddess Isis and the complex is a seamless blend of ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman architectural styles. Here, we’ll marvel at the majestic colonnades and intricate reliefs.
Special Experience
Uncover the fascinating Nubian Museum, before navigating the waterways of the Nile to a Nubian village, visiting the local market and a Nubian family in their home.
Known for their rich history and traditions, Nubian history can be traced back thousands of years. The Nubian people are renowned for their unique language, vibrant music and colourful crafts, preserving a distinctive cultural identity. Dotted along the Nile River, you’ll find traditional Nubian villages that feature bright and colourful mud-brick homes.
We’ll return to our hotel where the evening is at leisure.
(Breakfast)
Day 13
Aswan - Cairo
We’ll transfer to Aswan airport today, for our flight back to Cairo.
On arrival, we’ll begin with a visit to the 12th century Saladin Citadel of Cairo, serving throughout history as both a royal residence and military barracks, and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, one of the most prominent Ottoman-style landmarks in Cairo. We’ll then drive to the 14th century Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a famous bazaar and souq in the historic centre of Cairo. Here, you can shop for authentic souvenirs and delicious spices, as well as just soaking up the local bustling atmosphere.
We’ll stop at a local jewellery shop that specialises in customised gold and silver cartouches, before visiting a weaving workshop to learn about locally made Egyptian carpet.
After we’ve finished our touring for the day, we’ll enjoy a late lunch to try a popular local dish called Koshary, considered Egypt’s national dish and a beloved street food.
(Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 14
Cairo
Our day begins by discovering the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep before continuing to the Pyramids of Dahshur. This site was used as funerary grounds beginning in the time of the Fourth Dynasty, where King Senefru built two of his three pyramids: the 'Bent' pyramid, named for the angle of the sides, & the 'Red Pyramid' named for the red limestone used in its construction.
Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group farewell dinner.
(Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 15
Depart Cairo
Today marks the completion of our incredible adventure across Egypt. Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to Egypt and begin our journey home. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Please note, in order to undertake the following optional tours additional post tour accommodation in Cairo may be required. Please check with your Travel Specialist for details.
Optional Excursion
Coptic Cairo - Discover the ancient sites & culture of Coptic Christians throughout Old Cairo. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Optional Excursion
Islamic Cairo - Visit the Gayer Anderson Museum, Ibn Toulon Mosque & El Sultan Hassan Mosque. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Optional Excursion
National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation – Displaying the civilisation of Egypt from the prehistoric period to the present era. 3 hours – from $80pp US. Cash only.
(Breakfast)
Day 16
Arrive Australia
Dates/Prices
Itinerary
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
