In the Footsteps of the Pharaohs

Egypt is a destination dissected by the ancient Nile and steeped in 3,000 years of powerful history. This unique introductory tour takes you on a journey to the Greco-Roman city of Alexandria, through remote desert and to bustling Cairo. Witness the majestic Pyramids of Giza and cruise the Nile. Follow in the footsteps of the Pharaohs, exploring some of the most outstanding sightseeing in the world.

Guide

In the Footsteps of the Pharaohs is escorted from arrival in Luxor on Day 1 to departure from Cairo on Day 12 by an experienced English speaking local tour guide/Egyptologist.

MEAL PLAN
Prices include breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard MS Hamees and in Siwa. Breakfast and dinner are included in Cairo and in Alexandria. Breakfast is included on the Hurghada extension.

ACCOMMODATION
Is in 4 star hotels except in Siwa where accommodation is in a simple 3 star hotel but this is the best available to us.

GROUP SIZE
Maximum 14 passengers.

MINIMUM NUMBERS
This tour is subject to a minimum number of passengers.

GRATUITIES
In Egypt we recommend small amounts given regularly. For your driver we recommend tipping when you leave Cairo. For your guide we recommend tipping at the end of your tour. For the boat crew we recommend tipping at the end of the cruise and whilst cruising we recommend you tip your drivers after each excursion.

TRAVEL TIPS
We would recommend taking a sun hat and glasses and a few jumpers especially during the winter months December, January and February. A camera is a must.

NB
Children under 12 years are not permitted on this tour. Driving times are approximate and do not include time taken for sightseeing, meal and comfort stops.

Cruise itineraries are subject to change with little or no notice. Entrance fees to Egypt’s antiquities can increase with little notice.

DAY 1 LONDON to LUXOR
EgyptAir flight from Heathrow to Luxor. On arrival you will board MS Hamees for the next four nights on the cruise segment of your tour. Overnight in Luxor.

DAY 2 LUXOR to ESNA
This morning you will visit the sights on the West Bank of the Nile including an area used for ritual burials throughout the Pharaonic times. Here you will also see the Valley of the Kings and temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Enjoy a visit to East Bank and the magnificent temples of Karnak and Luxor, built over 3000 years ago to honour the gods of ancient Egypt. In the afternoon sail to Esna and stay overnight.

DAY 3  ESNA to ASWAN
Sail to Edfu passing through the lock in Esna. You will sail on to Kom Ombo to explore the Temple of the same name. This unique double temple was built during the Ptolemaic dynasty and dedicated to the god of fertility, Sobek and the falcon god, Haroeris. Sail on to Aswan and stay overnight.

DAY 4 ASWAN
Visit the High Dam, the 'unfinished obelisk' and Temple of Philae. This afternoon, enjoy a felucca ride. Overnight in Aswan.

DAY 5 ASWAN to ALEXANDRIA
Disembark in Aswan and fly EgyptAir to Cairo. Transfer by road to the beautiful city of Alexandria, in ancient times one of the most famous cities in Egypt and the setting of Cleopatra and Marc Anthony's stormy relationship. Overnight at the Radisson hotel for two nights (approx. 3 hours drive).

DAY 6 ALEAXANDRIA
Visit The National Museum, library, the catacombs of Kom el Shoukafa and Pompy’s Pillar. Enjoy lunch near Montazah Park. Overnight at the Radisson hotel.

DAY 7 ALEXANDRIA to SIWA
Early morning start with a stop en route to see the El Alamein War Cemetery. Continue on to Mersa Matruh for lunch and then on to Siwa, a tiny oasis in the middle of the Sahara Desert. You will check in to the Siwa Paradise Hotel for two nights (approx. 9 hours drive).

DAY 8 SIWA
Today visit Abu Sharouf Lake, Senousy village, Gabal el Mawta mountain and enjoy the sunset of Ain Fetnas.

DAY 9 SIWA to CAIRO
An early morning departure through the desert to Cairo with packed lunches. During the journey will be a stop at a monastery (dependent on holidays and festivals). Check in to the Mövenpick Resort Cairo for three nights (approx. 10 hours drive).

DAY 10 CAIRO
A morning tour of the magnificent Giza Plateau and Pyramids, built by the 4th dynasty pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkare between 2613-2494 BC. Your afternoon is spent at leisure.

DAY 11 CAIRO
A half day trip to the renowned Egyptian Museum in Cairo, home to treasures from Tutankhamun's tomb and the famous slate palette of King Narmer - one of the first documents of Egyptian history.

DAY 12 CAIRO to LONDON
Depart for Cairo airport for your return EgyptAir flight to Heathrow, arriving later the same day. Alternatively, choose to extend your trip.

HURGHADA EXTENSION
The Red Sea shores of Egypt are a haven of relaxation after a busy tour.
DAY 12
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Hurghada. Stay three or more nights at the Hurghada Marriott Beach Resort in a Standard room or in your chosen hotel.

DAY 15
Transfer to Hurghada Airport and fly EgyptAir via Cairo to London Heathrow.