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Complete Egypt
Example Itinerary
Overview
Egypt stands as a cradle of civilization, where ancient history intertwines with vibrant modern life. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the serene Nile Valley, this land offers an unparalleled journey through millennia of human achievement. Its diverse landscapes, ranging from bustling cities like Cairo and Alexandria to the tranquil beauty of Aswan, showcase a rich tapestry of culture, religion, and architectural marvels that continue to captivate visitors from around the world.
This ...
Egypt stands as a cradle of civilization, where ancient history intertwines with vibrant modern life. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the serene Nile Valley, this land offers an unparalleled journey through millennia of human achievement. Its diverse landscapes, ranging from bustling cities like Cairo and Alexandria to the tranquil beauty of Aswan, showcase a rich tapestry of culture, religion, and architectural marvels that continue to captivate visitors from around the world.
This comprehensive tour begins in Cairo, exploring the Museum of Egyptian Civilisations, Coptic landmarks, and the majestic Pyramids before visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum. A day trip to Alexandria reveals Greco-Roman heritage, followed by immersive experiences in Cairo’s historic districts and a traditional cookery class. The journey continues south via train to Luxor, dedicated to exploring the West Bank necropolis, Karnak, and Luxor Temples. Traveling further to Aswan, you’ll visit Edfu and Kom Ombo temples, relax on a felucca, and witness the engineering marvel of the Aswan Dam. The final highlight is an overnight stay near Abu Simbel for sunrise at the twin temples.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Cairo: Arrival
Arrive at Cairo Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 Cairo: Civilisations Museum & Coptic Cairo
Begin your journey through Egypt by delving into the country’s history in the Museum of Egyptian Civilisations; showcasing not just the epic Pharaonic history but also Coptic, Islamic and modern history. From here enter the narrow lanes of Coptic Cairo, lined with historic buildings dating from medieval times. Here you will find mosques, synagogues and churches including Egypt’s oldest Church, the 4th century Hanging Church. Later in the afternoon visit a local NGO where Cairo’s waste is innovatively recycled through a project supporting women and education. Nearby is the vast Monastery of St Samaan, carved directly into the cliff and a world away from the busy city.
Day 3 Cairo: Pyramids of Giza & Grand Egyptian Museum
The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most iconic sites in the world, dating back to 2580BC they are still one of humanity’s greatest architectural achievements. The three structures stand against the desert landscape just a stone’s throw from the busy city. Guarding the plateau is the Sphinx, carved directly from the limestone bedrock. The long awaited GEM now holds a vast collection of treasures. Dedicated to Ancient Egypt, many of the pieces have never been shown before including many of the King Tut collection. An afternoon in the museum is an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the society and culture of Ancient Egyptian civilisation.
Day 4 Cairo: Alexandria
Board an early train to take you north to the Mediterranean city of Alexandria, founded by Alexander and famed for its ancient lighthouse and library. Whilst some of the city’s original sites are lost to history, others remain and you can explore the underground tombs of the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. Continue to the Roman complex of Kom el Dika where you will find baths, an auditoria and a theatre. The modern side of Alexandria can’t be ignored and the Biblioteca Alexandria hosts museums, art galleries and space for eight million books. A visit to the Greco-Roman Museum will quench any further thirst for antiquities before you take the train back to Cairo.
Day 5 Cairo: City of the Dead & Cookery Class
This morning a walking tour takes you through the history of the Mamluks as you experience the open air museum of architecture. The mausoleums, mosques and madrassahs have intricate stone carvings, elegant minarets and monumental domes. The are is also known for its glass blowers and you will have the opportunity to stop and watch some of the craftsmen at work. Ahead of your cookery class you will take a walk through the busy markets shopping for ingredients as your chef explains the different local foods to you. Then learn some recipes as you prepare a traditional Egyptian lunch.
Day 6 Cairo – Luxor: Nile Valley Train Journey
Head to the station this morning and take the day train to Luxor. The journey allows you time to watch rural Egypt go by as you pass through villages and look out for Nile views. Take the opportunity to chat with other passengers and learn about Egyptian life before arriving into Luxor in the early evening.
Day 7 Luxor : Ancient Necropolis of the West Bank
Beyond the fertile plains of the Nile’s west bank lie the Theban hills which are dotted with thousands of tombs of the ancient Egyptians from kings and pharaohs, queens and nobles to the workers and artists responsible for the creation of these often colourful crypts. Amongst them you will find the three tiers of the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, quite unlike any of the other west bank tombs as well as the Colossi of Memnon rising 18m from the ground. Whilst tourists flock to the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, and rightly so, to see the decorated tombs, the Valleys of the Workers and Nobles are lesser visited and here you will find quieter areas to soak in the immense history and incredible workmanship. The full day is devoted to the west bank allowing you time to visit all the major tombs. A feast awaits you this evening as you head to the home of a local family for some authentic Egyptian cuisine.
Day 8 Luxor: Karnak & Luxor Temples
Perhaps Egypt’s best known temple, the mighty Karnak covers over two square km with the Temple of Amun-Ra at its centre. As the spiritual and political heart of Ancient Egypt for over two millennia, the temple has seen scores of builders and restorers leaving it an incredible record of history. A visit takes you through courts and halls, past giant columns and the Great Hypostyle hall of 134 carved pillars. Next head to the Luxor Museum with its modest collection of locally found items. After a well earned rest this afternoon take in Luxor Temple in the early evening when the stones take on a soft light as the sun begins to set. Return to modern Luxor in the evening and head to the busy souk to browse the stalls and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 9 Luxor – Aswan: Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples
Experience some of rural Egypt today driving south through farmland and villages on the east bank of the Nile. Make a stop at the Ptolemaic Edfu Temple, generally considered one of Egypt’s best preserved and located in the centre of the commercial town. After passing through the busy streets to the temple you will find a series of impressive bas-reliefs and one of the few Horos Temples still surviving. Further south Kom Ombo Temple sits gracefully on a bend in the Nile and has unique architecture due to its dedication to two gods, Horus the falcon god and Sobek the crocodile god. This double dedication creates a symmetry in the temple with dual sides offering twin hypostyle halls and sanctuaries. The end of the day sees you arriving into Aswan, a busy town set on a stretch of the Nile dotted with islands and cataracts.
Day 10 Aswan: Philae Temple & The Nile
Set on an island in the Nile, Philae Temple is one of Egypt’s most beautiful. Dedicated to the Goddess Isis, it was moved from its original position when Lake Nasser was formed after the building of the Aswan Dam. Move on to the engineering marvel of the Aswan Dam, constructed to control the flood waters of the Nile each year. Relax this afternoon on a traditional felucca as you sail along the Nile and visit the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener Island. Return to the hustle and bustle in the evening with a walk through the souk in Aswan to explore the colourful stalls of spices and crafts.
Day 11 Aswan – Abu Simbel: Lake Nasser
Head into the desert this morning with a drive to Abu Simbel, here, twin temples sit close to the shore of Lake Nasser having been moved after the construction of the dam. This afternoon head out on a boat trip on the lake taking you around the shore from where you will be able to view the temples form the water. This evening you have the opportunity to watch the sound and light show documenting the history of the temple.
Day 12 Abu Simbel – Aswan: Sun Rise at the Temple
Wake early this morning to experience the sun rising across the lake and the first rays landing softly on the huge carved figures of Ramesses II that front Abu Simbel Temple. Pass through the hypostyle hall and the side chambers to reach the inner sanctuary where twice a year the sun penetrates through due to the positioning of the temple. Return to Aswan and enjoy an afternoon at leisure perhaps relaxing in the hotel on an island in the Nile or heading to the souk for some shopping.
Day 13 Aswan: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your return flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo, Cairo
Offering an unbeatable location for those wanting to be at the heart of Cairo’s hustle and bustle, the 4* Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir sits just a stone’s throw away from the famous Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum. Comprised of 295 spacious and well-furnished rooms and suites, guests can enjoy a range of hotel facilities including a fitness centre and spa as well as a generous range of bars and restaurants, offering both local and international cuisine.
Pavillon Winter Hotel, Luxor
Although more informal than its illustrious neighbour (The Sofitel Winter Palace), the same high standards are provided at the Winter Pavillon with an equally enviable setting in the beautiful gardens of The Winter Palace. Surrounded by tropical gardens and just a short walk from the Luxor Temple, the Temple of Karnak or the Luxor Museum, the Hotel Winter Pavillon comprises 118 rooms, on 5 floors, each equipped with modern facilities and private balconies. The hotel has a good restaurant and other facilities are shared with its sister hotel, including a wide selection of restaurants and bars offering both international and regional cuisine and an outdoor unheated pool.
Eskaleh Nubian Ecolodge, Abu Simbel
Set in a wonderful location overlooking Lake Nasser and not far from Abu Simbel temples, the Eskaleh Nubian Ecolodge offers a unique stay that gives a great insight into local traditions. Guests can enjoy learning about Nubian history and culture as well as sampling some of the delicious Nubian dishes on offer. Built using Nile mud bricks, the main building holds just 16 rooms, giving an intimate atmosphere with excellent service. Rooms are simple but comfortable, spacious and characterful, perfectly suited to travellers looking for a more traditional experience away from the luxury hotels.
BenBen by Dhara, Aswan
The island hotel of BenBen by Dhara enjoys calming views and a fresh breeze from any of the hotel and room terraces, with the city of Aswan simmering in the distance. Within the rooms, high ceilings, natural décor and plenty of light add to the airy feel of the property, and if that wasn’t enough to get you in the meditative mood, there is also the option of yoga upon the BenBen’s Rock overlooking the river or a choice of massage and health treatments. The whitewashed, open-air YAM Restaurant serves local cuisine, and the Philae Bar & Terrace is great for a refreshing afternoon beverage.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
MEALS
TRANSPORT
ENTRANCE FEES
EXPERT TEAM
ACCOMMODATION
WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
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WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.OTHER ITINERARIES IN EGYPT
Check out our group tours in Egypt
As well as private tailor-made trips, we also offer small group tours (max size 12) to Egypt. Led by an experienced tour leader, travel with a group of like-minded people on one of our award-winning group tours.
View Group Tours in Egypt