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14 days
Specific Tour
8 people
English
The luxury Emeralds of Egypt tour offers an unsurpassed journey into the jewels of what the country has to offer. From the must-see bucket list destinations such as the Pyramids of Giza, Valley of the Kings, and luxury Nile Cruise to the secret side of Egypt that most visitors fail to experience, this Signature Journey is the ultimate in memory-making exploration.
We begin our journey getting intimate with what has to be the most iconic building on the planet– that of the pyramid. Of course we visit the famed Giza examples, but this tour also brings the delights of the lesser visited pyramids of Sakkara, and the UNESCO site of Memphis. And we round off our pyramid adventure with a once-in-a-lifetime sunset camel ride in the shadow of the Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Cheops.
Some serious R&R is undertaken at the wonderful Red Sea resort city of Hurghada. The crystal blue waters present the ultimate in coral reef snorkeling and diving, the perfect antidote to any day-to-day reality that’s yet to be washed away.
Luxor, of course, beckons, with visits to the renowned Temples of Karnak, Luxor, We exploreValley of the Kings . And no authentic tour of the country would be complete without sailing the waters of the mythical Nile, and we certainly do this in style with a 4-nights cruise in the ultimate of luxury.
We’ve also plenty of time to explore Abu Simbel and Alexandria, with a thrilling tour dive to the underwater wonder that is Cleopatra’s Palace. And, naturally, we leave enough time to get acquainted with the wonders of Coptic Cairo and to hone your bartering skills in that most traditional of Egyptian activities, shopping in the souks.
Arrive at Cairo International Airport where you’ll be met by your Egypt Deluxe resident tour leader. Enjoy a private, air-conditioned transfer with your group to the luxurious, superbly located 5-star Marriot Mena House hotel. Here you can rest your weary head in rooms that overlook the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing today—The Great Pyramid of Cheops. Enjoy the opportunity to meet and bond with the other members of your group. Marriott Menahouse Hotel
Today is a true combination of exploration, culture, and iconic country landmarks. After an early breakfast we hit the road for the easy journey to Memphis. Thousands of years older than its Tennessee namesake, this is home to the second largest sphinx in Egypt and a plethora of towering statues, including that of Rameses II. This UNESCO site will captivate you like no other, not only because of its awe-inspiring history, but the way your guide brings the tales to life. Memphis dates back over 5,200 years, and is the oldest capital city in Egypt. Feast your eyes on amazing antiquities and prized possessions of many pharaohs and kings. We have plenty of time to explore the Pyramids of Sakkara, an incredible necropolis that’s home to the oldest of all of the country’s tombs—the Step Pyramid. And at more than 7,000 years old this takes experiencing history to a whole new level! Prepare to gaze in wonder when you enter these sacred tombs, laying a privileged eye upon inscriptions chiseled out by craftsmen not simply of yesteryear, but of an age that we today can only dream of. Returning to Cairo our journey into the peculiarities of ancient Egyptian history continues with a visit to the Giza Solar Boat Museum, situated next to the Great Pyramid. Here the famous Khufu Ship is preserved—a full sized so-called “solar ship” that was buried alongside a Pharaoh in order for him to journey across the heavens with the sun god, Ra, as he entered the afterlife. We enjoy a leisurely lunch in the splendor of the 139 Restaurant at our hotel, excellent fortification for the adventure that lies ahead. Because late in the afternoon will see us take to the saddle for an unrepeatable camel ride in the shadows of the iconic Giza pyramids. Your own “ship of the desert” will gently transport you around this historic site as the sun slowly sets—and don’t worry, you’ll have ample opportunities to take photos. Dinner is taken in the hotel’s top rated Italian restaurant, Alfredo’s, and then the rest of the night is your own to enjoy the hotel facilities or simply flop into bed after this full day of exploration. Marriott Menahouse Hotel Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
After breakfast we head to Cairo International Airport for the flight to the Red Sea resort city of Hurghada. Our luxury hotel, the Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, is directly on the beach and provides ample opportunity to unwind. The rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure—laze by the pool or perhaps enjoy some of the many beach activities. If you have the energy there are many shops, restaurants, and bars on your doorstep to explore. The Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh Hotel Meals: Breakfast.
After an early breakfast we leave the hotel for a full day on the water. Our comfortable boat transports us to some of the best snorkeling and swimming spots in the Red Sea. Prepare to be blown away by the vivid colors of the reef, fish, and corals. All snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, and there’s ample room under cover to escape the sun when you need to. We take lunch on heavenly Island of Mahmya, an eco-tourism haven boasting azure blue waters and powder-soft white beaches. We linger awhile to soak up the atmosphere, take advantage of the plethora of activities on offer, or just lie back and enjoy some well-deserved R&R. The Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh Hotel Meals: Breakfast,Lunch.
A great breakfast sets us up for the day before boarding our comfortable transport for the 3 ½ hour trip to the legendary city of Luxor. Our base for the next 4 nights is the truly luxurious Oberoi Zahara, a boat that offers the ultimate in comfort and facilities as we explore the region that’s home to what are surely the some of the jewels in Egypt’s crown. We lunch on board before heading to the breathtaking wonder that is Karnak Temple. Everything you’ve seen so far will pale as you gaze in awe upon the rows and rows of hieroglyphic carved columns, towering statues, and endless sphinxes. The fact that this awe-inspiring structure dates back to 2055 BC is almost incomprehensible, and is an incredible example of just how advanced the ancient Egyptians really were. Dinner is aboard our sumptuous craft and we fall asleep gently rocked by the unfathomable waters of the mighty Nile. Oberoi Zahra Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
Today the West Bank beckons, and after an early breakfast we head to what is perhaps one of the most famous locations in all of Egypt—The Valley of the Kings. Many superlatives have been used to describe these archaic tombs, but nothing can prepare you for experiencing it for yourself. Discover more about the journey of the rich and powerful as they passed from this life to the next, and, of course, you get the chance to visit the tomb of perhaps the most famous king of all, Tutankhamun. The temple of Rameses III, Madinat Habu, and the huge twin statues Colossi of Memnon continue to enthrall as your journey through Egyptian history continues. It’s a full morning and we’ll be glad to return to our boat for a delicious lunch as we sail to Essna. The evening is spent aboard our boat, with dinner served and some welcome time to relax. Oberoi Zahra Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
Today we enjoy a more leisurely start, with both breakfast and lunch taken on board. After lunch we head to Edfu, where our next sensory fix is more than satisfied by a visit to the impressive Ptolemaic Temple of Horus. This mighty structure was completed somewhere between 230 to 57 BC. It’s one of the largest temples in all of Egypt and, most importantly, is incredibly preserved. This is thanks to the wonders of the desert sand, which filled and covered the structure following the banning of the pagan cult that worshiped there. Today it’s possible to visit once again, thanks to excavation works that began back in the mid 19th century. Oberoi Zahra Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
After breakfast (at your leisure) we sail towards Aswan, and the world-famous structure that is the High Dam. This was completed in 1970 and not only provides a constant supply of renewable energy for the whole country but, even more importantly, ended the cycle of drought and floods that plagued the Nile region. We then take a motorboat ride to the Temple of Philae. Truly impressive, it was constructed to honor the goddess of Isis and stands on an island in the reservoir of the Aswan Low Dam. We then head to the Botanical Garden by Felucca .Dinner and overnight is once again aboard our luxurious water-going palace. Oberoi Zahra Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
We wave goodbye to the boat that’s been our home for the past few days, heading towards the wonder that is Abu Simbel. This incredible complex of enormous temples dedicated to Rameses II was rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser in the 1960s, thanks to a herculean effort sponsored by UNESCO. The gargantuan statues of Rameses at each of the entrances to the temples are gloriously imposing, and wonderful examples of the splendor of ancient Egyptian architecture. After a morning’s exploration we drive back to Aswan where we enjoy refined French cuisine for lunch in the iconic setting of the 1902 Restaurant, a pure gem located beneath a grand Arabian dome by a Qualaun crypt. Fortified, we head to the airport for our flight to Cairo. Get ready for a tour of what is one of the most amazing of all the Islamic thoroughfares in the city, El-Moez Street. This provides the ultimate experience to discover one of the oldest civilizations on the planet. Tread ancient pathways, marvel at the myriad of mosques, and perfect your bartering techniques within the every-changing alleyways of Khan El Khalili souk. After shopping till we drop, we shrug off the chaos of outside for the air conditioned nirvana that is the Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant. Following a satisfying dinner we transfer to the luxury Four Seasons Nile Plaza, a stunning residence in the heart of the city overlooking the Nile, and one that continues the style of luxury that you’ve by now become accustomed to. Four Seasons at First Residence Meals: Breakfast,Lunch.
After breakfast we visit what is probably to most fascinating collection of ancient artifacts on the planet—The Egyptian Museum. With an almost overwhelming number of exhibits on offer, your experienced guide will ensure you don’t miss the ‘must-see’ attractions, including the eerily compelling Royal Mummy Room. Here you’ll get a true insight into the psyche of the nobles who walked the Earth thousands of years ago, and the 70-day process that achieved what is still revered as the most effective manner of preserving the human body. We lunch at the wonderful open air restaurant of Andrea New Giza before heading to the brand new splendor that is the Grand Egyptian Museum. A decade in the making, this is the largest museum on the planet dedicated to a single civilization. And your Egypt Deluxe guide brings the treasured highlights to life in a way only a local expert historian can. Four Seasons at First Residence Meals: Breakfast,Lunch.
We rise early for breakfast before the 2 ½ hour journey to Alexandria. Here we dele into the largest and most important burial site in Egypt, the Greco tombs of Kom El Shuqafa (Hill of Treasures). These date back to the 2nd century AD and encompass a mixture of Pharaonic, Hellenistic, and Roman decorative art. We take time to experience the impressive, 30-meter-high column that’s known as Pompey’s Pillar before a well-earned leisurely lunch at the Fish Market Restaurant. We then head to our hotel, the Four Seasons Alexandria San Stefano, that offers pure glamor on the Egyptian Riviera with an infinity pool, sleek waterfront setting, and its own private beach. Four Seasons Alexandria San Stefano Meals: Breakfast,Lunch.
After breakfast we head to the amazing spectacle that is the Lost Palace of Cleopatra. Just offshore, an island called Antirhodos was home to the famous queen’s palace. But following an earthquake and tsunami its splendors were forever doomed to reside in a watery grave, lost until 1998 when French archeologist, Franck Goddido discovered its remains. We take a tour dive to visit the incredibly preserved remains—something that few ever experience and an ethereal wonder that will remain with you for life. Lunch is taken at the Greek Club, with its wonderful seafood and classic Greek dishes, before a visit to the Alexandria Library. This was one of the largest and most significant in the ancient world, and the most famous library of classical antiquities. Four Seasons Alexandria San Stefano Meals: Breakfast,Lunch.
We breakfast early before the drive back to Cairo. Here we take a fascinating tour of Old Cairo (also known as Coptic Cairo) and the medieval Islamic fortification that is the Citadel of Cairo. Located near the center of the city, it stands on the summit of Mokattam and benefits from stunning views. We explore the mosques and museums of this preserved historic site before heading to explore Old Cairo (also known as Coptic Cairo). This rich historic area has been inhabited since the 6th century BC and has periodically been under Roman rule, Islamic, and Christian. We lunch at Azhr Park, an incredible verdant city park that was transformed in 2005 from a city rubbish dump to what is now listed as one of the world’s sixty great public spaces—an incredible testament to what humans can do when they put their mind to it. Our home for the night is the landmark Heliopolis Towers Hotel, a fitting location for our final afternoon and traditional “last supper” with the lifelong friends you’ll have made on this tour. Heliopolis Towers Hotel Meals: Breakfast,Lunch.
Enjoy a final breakfast with your group before boarding your transfer to Cairo International Airport. Here you can relax in the airport lounge before catching your international flight home. Heliopolis Towers Hotel Meals: Breakfast.
Appreciate the true meaning of the word ‘unique’ at the Marriott Mena House, Cairo in a setting that has entranced travelers through the ages, where the timeless majesty of the Great Pyramids of Giza cast their spell. Located only 700 meters from the pyramids, the hotel offers unmatched views. A range of continental dining and Egyptian specialty restaurants and bars satisfy even the most critical of appetites.
Egypt’s Red Sea is teeming with colourful sea life and unspoilt coral reefs. Its crystal clear waters and unique underwater gardens are globally renowned as an aquatic paradise for beginners and advanced divers.
Spanning 48 acres on the Red Sea shore, our all suite resort has been carefully designed to allow you space. It features high domed ceilings, is bathed in natural light and dotted with traditional design elements; from the auspicious eight pointed star to neoclassic columns and handcrafted lanterns. Classical touches that add a distinctive sense of place.
Opulent suites with unrestricted ocean views, international fine dining, water sports, and a range of PADI certified dives suitable for beginners as well as advanced divers. Coupled with our sincere hospitality and attention to your every need.
Egypt, one of the oldest civilizations in the world, is home to the River Nile: the longest river in the world. Since the ancient Egyptians believed that the Nile would carry them into the afterlife, almost all of the cultural and historical sites of Ancient Egypt lie along its banks.
See the wonders of ancient Egypt unfold before your eyes on The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser. Let us guide you around magnificent temples and five thousand years of culture. For your on board entertainment, our cruises also offer nightly traditional dance and music performances.
To ensure a truly memorable experience, we offer a limited number of luxury accommodations, all day fine dining and personalized spa treatments. Coupled with a sincere, courteous attention to your every need for an unmistakably Oberoi experience.
Located on the western bank of the Nile in the historic suburb of Giza, our Hotel is the perfect jumping-off point for exploring Cairo. From the zoological gardens that lie just outside our doors to the shopping and entertainment within our very own First Place complex, you won’t have to go far to find plenty to see and do. Observe unique works of art at the nearby Mohamed Mahmoud Khalil Museum, or ask the concierge to arrange for an unforgettable horseback-riding adventure by the pyramids. Whatever experience you’re dreaming of, we can bring it to life.
In a glamorous Alexandria luxury hotel retreat set against the Mediterranean shoreline, 19 storeys of classic European-inspired luxury accommodations in San Stefano’s stately Grand Plaza are graced by open-air restaurants, world-class service and a European-style spa.
Heliopolis Towers Hotel offers a charming accommodation in Heliopolis district of Cairo. With accents of an Egyptian architecture, the venue was built in 2005 and renovated in 2008. You will be able to use a storage room, a safety deposit box and truck parking onsite.
Midan Hussein is 12 km from the property, while Cairo International Stadium is 7 km from the hotel. The venue boasts a prime location, close to a museum, an opera house and a palace.
Luxury rooms include a mini-bar, a private balcony and a refrigerator along with a microwave, an electric kettle and a dishwasher. Some units feature a superb garden view to enjoy. The rooms come with marble bathrooms equipped with a shower, a hairdryer and a bidet.
