The adrenaline starts right after breakfast, because we head out for a full day exploring the region around what is probably the most famous landmark in the world, the Pyramids of Giza. Forget what you’ve read, forget the pictures you’ve seen, because nothing will prepare you for the awe-inspiring emotions you’ll experience when you first set eyes on the only ancient wonder of the world that still exists today—The Great Pyramid. These marvels of ancient architectural skill are guarded over by the steely gaze of The Sphinx, and we have plenty of time to get up close and personal with these behemoth structures. We also get the incredible opportunity to step inside the Khufu Pyramid, an experience that will leave you humbled to have trod the same pathway that esteemed royalty deemed to be suitable to pause before continuing their journey into the afterlife. A trip to the pyramids wouldn’t be complete without “ship of the desert” camel ride, a unique experience made even more special by the wonderful location. In between all this exploration you’ll be glad to hear we take time out for lunch, dining at the traditional Abu Shakra Restaurant, a welcome comfort stop during this full day of excitement. The splendors continue as the sun sets, when we’re treated to an incredible sound and light. show that brings the stony-eyed Sphinx to life for a narration that reveals the secrets of the ancient Egyptian civilization. Steigenberger Pyramids Hotel Meals: Breakfast,Lunch.

After a hearty breakfast we head to the airport for the short flight to Abu Simbel. Here we’re welcomed aboard our sumptuous Prince Abbas Cruise Boat, our home for the next three nights. With all the amenities of a 5-star hotel, this is cruising in pure luxury, and we take lunch before heading out to the delights of Abu Simbel Temple. 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. We return to our vessel for a late afternoon tea, following which there’s an optional visit to the Abu Simbel sound and light show. Dinner is taken onboard and tonight you’ll be rocked to sleep by the gentle waters of the river that’s the lifeblood of Egypt. Prince Abbas Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

This morning we sail to Kasr Ibrim. Once a formidable citadel, today it’s the only ancient archeological site in the region that survived the flooding caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to capture its island glory from the panoramic location of the sun deck of our boat. We continue to navigate the waters of Lake Nasser, heading to Amada where we get to explore Rameses II’s temple of the same name. Its current location is thanks to the efforts of UNESCO, who moved the complete structure to save it from the waters of the lake. One of the most incredible aspects is the color quality of the paintings within, one of the best-preserved examples of such ancient art in the world. We visit Derr Temple, another that was saved from the flood waters, and take the short walk to the Tomb of Pennut, where we get a fascinating opportunity to go inside. We sail on to Wadi el Seboua in the evening, after which we enjoy a cocktail party, dinner, and are entertained by a classical Nubian dance show. Prince Abbas Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

We wake in the morning and head out to explore the temples of Wadi El Souba – the Valley of the Lions! The stunning location is home to four important archaeological temples, and your Egypt Deluxe guide will enthrall with tales of old as we meander on an exploratory walk through the ruins. We dedicate a couple of hours to this worthwhile site before setting sail for Aswan. Amwaj Living Stone Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

First on this morning’s agenda is the stunning Temple of Kalabasha—the finest example of a free-standing temple in all of Nubia. Another survivor thanks to the UNESCO rescue operation, the structure is dedicated to Horus, Osiris, and Isis. We then swap our luxury Lake Nasser cruise boat for the Luxury Nile Cruise Amwaj Living Stone. After settling in we take lunch, and the afternoon then beckons with a discovery of the best that Aswan has to offer. Of course this includes the world-famous High Dam. This significant structure 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. This impressive structure, constructed to honor the goddess of Isis, stands on an island in the reservoir of the Aswan Low Dam. We then head to the enormity that is the Unfinished Obelisk. This fascinating monolithic monument lies in a bed of granite and was commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut over 3,500 years ago. Had it been finished it would’ve been around a third larger than any other previously erected obelisk. We take to a traditional felucca for a first-hand experience of this ancient mode of transport before returning to our ship for dinner and dancing. Amwaj Living Stone Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

We set sail early this morning (4:00) reaching the double temple of Kom Ombo just after breakfast. This unusual structure is dedicated to not one, but two gods: the falcon god, Haroeis, and the crocodile god, Sobek. This dual building is perfectly symmetrical, with matching rooms, courts, halls, and sanctuaries for each god. We then sail to Edfu where, after lunch on board, 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 worshipped there. Today it’s possible to visit once again, thanks to excavation works that began back in the mid 19th century. Our watery expedition continues towards our last port of call for today, the ancient city of Luxor, enjoying afternoon tea as we go. After all the incredible sights already seen, you might think that this metropolis can offer no more—but think again. Not only is Luxor home to the world’s largest open-air museum, but it’s one of the most archeologically rich places in the world. After we dock there’s time to relax before dinner on board and a fun Galabia Party. This traditional Egyptian costume includes a long dress (worn by both men and women) and a beautiful headpiece adorned with much bling! It’s a lively evening enjoyed by all. Be sure to get a few hours sleep ready for an exciting day tomorrow. Amwaj Living Stone Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

After a hearty breakfast we visit the ethereal West Bank and 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. We then head to the Temple of Hatshepsut, stopping at the Colossi of Memnon along the way. These two enormous, 3,400-year-old statues will prime you for the truly outstanding sights that lie ahead, the first of which is the temple of one of the first female Pharaohs—Hatshepsut. This striking architectural masterpiece with its dramatic sheer cliff backdrop is a fitting tribute for the ‘queen who ruled as a king’. We head back to our boat for lunch before crossing to the East Bank to visit the wonders of Karnak and Luxor Temples. These awe-inspiring constructions are linked by the famous Avenue of Sphinxes. At 3km long you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for the cartouche of Cleopatra, bestowed when she visited the temples with Marc Antony—or, more easily, ask your Egypt Deluxe guide to point it out for you. There’s time to relax before dinner is served, and this evening we’re entertained by the most Egyptian of spectacles, the belly dancer. Amwaj Living Stone Cruise Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

After an early breakfast we wave goodbye to our floating palace and take to four wheels once again for the journey to the resort city of Hurghada. Our base here is the luxury Desert Rose Hurghada Resort, a palatial delight with private beach and all the amenities you’d expect from five-star accommodation. After check in the rest of the day is free to spend at your leisure. Explore, bathe in the Red Sea, take advantage of the hotel facilities… The world, as they say, is your oyster. Desert Rose Hurghada Resort Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

After an early breakfast we leave the hotel for a 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 visit the heavenly Island of Mahmya, an eco-tourism haven boasting azure blue waters and powder-soft white beaches. If you’re lucky you might even see dolphins! 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 “me time”. By evening we return to the hotel for some well-deserved free time to enjoy the hotel facilities, take dinner at your convenience, and perhaps enjoy the vibrant lifestyle of this wonderful resort city. Desert Rose Hurghada Resort Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

Fortify yourself with a good breakfast because today is all about adventure! We’re heading out into the desert landscape for an adrenaline-filled journey by SUV or quad bike. Hold tight, because it’s going to be a thrilling ride… During this exciting safari trip we visit a Bedouin camp, ride camels, and discover ancient nomadic Bedouin skills such as the baking of flat bread. The afternoon is completed with an insider look at the traditional craft of carpet making, and we partake in the very Egyptian custom of taking tea Desert Rose Hurghada Resort Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

R&R at its finest—the whole day is free to enjoy as you choose. Explore the resort, avail yourself of all the beachside activities, take to the sea once more, enjoy the hotel’s luxury facilities, or simply laze by the pool… Today, it’s completely up to you. Desert Rose Hurghada Resort Meals: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.

After breakfast we bid goodbye to the ocean and fly back to Cairo. Get ready to be overwhelmed once again, because 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. We enjoy lunch at the highly reviewed Bonne Soiree Restaurant, necessary fortification for the afternoon’s exploits—the incredible Khan el Khalili Bazaar. Shop till you drop in these ever-changing alleyways, and test out your bartering skills in the traditional Egyptian method of determining the best price. Our hotel is the Four Seasons at First Residence, 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.

Today we have a full day visiting the wonderful city of Alexandria. Enjoy a tour of the city’s highlights; The Citadel of Qaitbay, an impressive 15th-century fortress, gaze in awe at the building that houses the world’s important collection of classical antiquities, the Alexandria Library, and don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of the extensive gardens of Montazah Palace. We also enjoy a well-earned lunch at the Fish Market Restaurant. After a full day of exploration, we drive back to the hotel for some well-deserved time to unwind for the evening. Tonight is the time to don your finest for our classic “last supper” with the lifelong friends you’ll have made on this tour. And the evening is made even more memorable with a classic Egyptian Tanoura show complete with belly dancers (and the chance to try your hand at this iconic dance, should you so choose). Four Seasons at First Residence 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. Four Seasons at First Residence Meals: Breakfast.