Dahabiya Cruise on the Golden River

Embark on a spellbinding 12-day odyssey where the veil of time thins, beginning in the monumental heart of Cairo where ancient myths breathe. You will then transition from a world of pharaonic power to the gentle magic of a Dahabiya, your elegant vessel gliding upon the timeless Nile. Let the river’s sacred current guide you to riverside temples that whisper forgotten secrets to the desert winds. This is not merely a tour, but an awakening to the soul of a land woven from magic itself.

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

• Arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI), where our representative will greet you upon arrival.
• Transfer to your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for check-in.
• Overnight in Cairo.

Day 2: The Ancient Pyramids of Giza & Sakkara

• Begin your explorations at Memphis, the ancient capital of the Old Kingdom.
• Continue to Sakkara to witness the revolutionary Step Pyramid of King Djoser, the world's oldest major stone structure.
• Journey to the Giza Plateau to marvel at the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus.
• Stand before the enigmatic Great Sphinx and explore the Valley Temple.
• Optional: Enjoy lunch at a handpicked local restaurant.
• Overnight in Cairo.

Day 3: Treasures of Cairo

• Delve into the vast collections of the Egyptian Museum, home to the golden treasures of Tutankhamun.
• Explore the historic Salah El Din Citadel and the magnificent Mohamed Ali Alabaster Mosque.
• Journey through Coptic Cairo to visit the historic Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue.
• Optional: Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
• Overnight in Cairo.

Day 4: Flight to Luxor & Nile Cruise Embarkation

• After breakfast, transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor.
• Upon arrival, you will be transferred to embark on your luxurious 5-star Dahabiya, the Sonesta Dahabiya Amirat.
• After lunch on board, visit the sprawling Karnak Temple Complex and the majestic Luxor Temple.
• Overnight moored in Luxor.

Day 5: The West Bank & Sailing to Esna

• Explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, the royal burial ground of the New Kingdom pharaohs.
• Discover the Valley of the Queens, the Temple of Medinet Habu, and the towering Colossi of Memnon.
• In the afternoon, set sail towards Esna, beginning your tranquil journey up the Nile.
• Overnight moored near Esna.

Day 6: Leisurely Sailing on the Nile

• Enjoy a full day of relaxation as you sail gracefully down the Nile. Take in the timeless landscapes of riverside villages and lush palms from the comfort of your Dahabiya.
• Overnight moored beside a secluded Nile island.

Day 7: The Temple of Edfu

• Sail to Edfu to visit the exceptionally preserved Temple of Horus, one of Egypt's most impressive ancient shrines.
• Overnight moored beside a secluded Nile island.

Day 8: The Dual Temple of Kom Ombo

• Visit the unique Ptolemaic Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to both the crocodile-god Sobek and the falcon-god Horus.
• Overnight moored beside a secluded Nile island.

Day 9: Sailing to Aswan

• Spend a tranquil day sailing towards the beautiful city of Aswan, the southern gateway to Nubia.
• The Dahabiya moors overnight in Aswan.

Day 10: Aswan's Enduring Monuments

• Discover Aswan's modern marvel, the High Dam, and the historic Old Aswan Dam.
• Take a motorboat to the island of Agilkia to visit the stunning Philae Temple, rescued from the Nile's rising waters and dedicated to the goddess Isis.
• Overnight moored in Aswan.

Day 11: Disembarkation & Return to Cairo

• Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking.
• Transfer to Aswan Airport for your flight back to Cairo.
• Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for your final night.
• Overnight in Cairo.

Day 12: Final Departure

• After breakfast, transfer to Cairo International Airport for your flight home, filled with memories of your Egyptian adventure.

Package Inclusions & Exclusions

• What's Included:
  • Accommodation:
    • 4 nights' accommodation in Cairo, including daily breakfast.
    • 7 nights' accommodation on a 5-star luxury Dahabiya Nile cruise.
  • Flights:
    • Domestic flights within Egypt (Cairo to Luxor / Aswan to Cairo).
  • Transfers:
    • Airport meet & greet services upon arrival.
    • All transfers in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Tours & Guiding:
    • Private guided tours in Cairo.
    • Guided group excursions during the Nile cruise.
    • Services of a professional, licensed Egyptologist guide.
    • Entrance fees to all historical sites mentioned in the itinerary.
• What's Not Included:
  • International airfare to and from Cairo.
  • Entry visa for Egypt (can be arranged upon arrival on your behalf upon request).
  • Optional tours and lunches not specified in the itinerary.
  • Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, telephone calls, souvenirs).
  • Gratuities (tipping) for guides, drivers, and cruise staff.

Accommodation Options:

Option (Luxury)

• Fairmont Nile City Hotel Cairo Ms Nile Cruise Dahabiya-Amirat Cruise-Blue Shadow.
• Nile Cruises: MS Amwaj Nile Cruise, MS Nile Premium, MS Bule shadow, MS Jaz Jubilee, Crown Emperor, Steigenberger.