An expedition through the heart of Africa from days of old. From crossing deserts, rivers and mountains and overcoming a multitude of challenges this continent can throw at you, inter-twined with stunning National Parks, adventure activity play grounds and UNESCO World Heritage sites, this is a trip that will linger in the memory long after you finish.
Note: Due to the ongoing situation in Sudan we expect to overfly from Cairo (flight at your cost) and join the truck in Addis Ababa. We would complete the Egypt section using public transport and local hotels and extend our time in northern Kenya and Ethiopia. We ran our 2022/23 Trans Africa expedition in this way and it worked very well.
Note: This is one of our Overland Adventures which are run on a participatory basis – you’ll be involved in the day to day running of the trip and have fun helping to cook for the group. Expect to sometimes get dusty and dishevelled and not to be able to have hot showers every night. Groups of up to 24 people are led by our crew of two.
Please note that the accommodation on this trip is predominantly camping, though there may be opportunities to upgrade this locally where rooms are available. Please see the trip inclusions for an approximate percentage of camping and room nights.
Our Overland Adventures provide once in a life time experiences and whilst some safari activities may be included in the itinerary, or be available to book locally, this should not be considered a traditional safari holiday, though we consider that part of the fun!!
Overland Journeys
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Camping, Hotel
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Nairobi, Giza, Cairo, Samburu Na
Nairobi, Giza, Cairo, Samburu National Reserve, Luxor, Abu Simbel, Meroë, Khartoum, Addis Ababa, Eldoret, Kabale
The only thing I would change is that the first day - coming right after most people had taken trans-oceanic flights and still had jet lag - was too demanding (flying to Luxor, touring Karnak before checking into ship). It would have been better to have a lighter Day One to allow for rest and time zone adjustment, and do Karnak on the way back.
The all-women's tour group and the Tour Director were outstanding and hugely enhanced the experience.
Tipping became a constant irritant and would be better if Tour Director handled tips and Insight appropriately raised the package cost, to alleviate that daily chore (ensuring correct currency & denominations, ATM visits, etc.). PS - bring American dollars in small bills.
Overall, a fascinating country, knowledgeable and constantly helpful Tour Director, and a good balance of historic and current experiences. Aswan (and the Cataract Hotel) was a definite highlight, and don't pass on Abu Simbel. It is worth the cost; as is the Aswan boat tour of the Nile (two options worth doing).
This solo tour will guide you through the ancient temples and World Wonders of Egypt. Begin your adventure in Cairo, the Arab World's cultural centre. Fly to Luxor and embark on a four-night Nile River cruise. You will see the ancient temples of Luxor and Karnak, the world's oldest temple complex. Explore Kom Ombo's intriguing historical sites, including the graves of Theban monarchs, ancient kings, and queens from several dynasties. Continue your journey to the Temple of Edfu, Egypt's best-preserved and second-largest ancient temple. Visit Aswan and marvel at the Phile Temple, which was erected to honour the Goddess Isis. Your journey ends in Cairo, where you can marvel at the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the Sphinx.
This small-group tour will showcase the best of Egypt, Jordan and Dubai! Begin your journey in Cairo, where you will discover the most famous archeological sites in Egypt including the Great Pyramids, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. From there you will catch a flight to Luxor, an ancient city home to the Grand Temple of Karnak. Embark on a scenic cruise on the Nile, the longest river in the world, between Luxor and Aswan. Prepare to see ancient temples and magnificent tombs along the way, including the Temple of Edfu and the Temples of Kom Ombo! Upon arrival in Aswan, visit the Aswan High Dam along with the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Make your way back to Cairo before catching a flight to Amman, the capital city of Jordan. Uncover the magnificent sights of Madaba and Mount Nebo, famous for their Jordanian mosaics dating to the 6th century CE. See the Roman ruins of Jerash, overlooking the Jordan Valley. Discover the Dead Sea and visit Wadi Mujib along with the Crusader Castle of Kerak. Finally, see the World Heritage Sites of Petra and drive through the desert of Wadi Rum. Your tour of Jordan will end in Amman. Next you will continue your adventures in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai. Discover the major traditional and modern landmarks of Dubai and use your time at leisure to explore the diversity of this remarkable city, discover the famous shopping centres, and experience the nightlife of Dubai. Your tour of Egypt, Jordan and Dubai will come to an end, and you will head home filled with fascinating memories that will last you a lifetime!
This tour of Türkiye and Egypt will take you through the most significant highlights of these fascinating countries. Begin your journey in the breath-taking cosmopolitan city of Istanbul; a city that blends rich history, man-made wonders, and a warm and welcoming culture. Explore the Topkapi Palace, the Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, famous for its colourful ceramics. From there board a flight to Kayseri and continue your tour to Cappadocia, a city famous for its unique geological features dubbed fairy chimneys and the picture-perfect spot for hot air ballooning. Next, fly to Antalya to end your journey in Türkiye on the beach and experience nature and history as you explore the ancient sites of Aspendos, Perge, Side, and the beautiful Kursunlu waterfalls before flying to Egypt. Begin your journey in Cairo, the cultural hub of the Arab World. Take a flight to Luxor and embark on a relaxing four-night cruise up the Nile River. You will discover the ancient temples of Luxor and Karnak, the oldest temple compound in the world. Uncover the fascinating historical sights of Kom Ombo, including the tombs of Theban rulers, ancient kings, and queens of several dynasties. Continue your journey to The Temple of Edfu — the best-preserved ancient temple in Egypt and the second largest. Travel to Aswan and admire the Phile Temple, built to worship the Goddess Isis. Your last stop is Cairo, where you will admire the magnificence of the Great Pyramids of Egypt and Sphinx.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Istanbul, Cairo, Luxor, Edfu, As
Istanbul, Cairo, Luxor, Edfu, Aswan, Cappadocia, Antalya
With this exhilarating tour, experience the ancient stories and pharaonic cultures that are the quintessential image of Egypt and set out to explore the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula. Begin your journey in Cairo, the cultural hub of the Arab World & get set to take a flight to Luxor. Embark on a relaxing four-night cruise on the banks of the Nile River. Capture the aesthetic views of the ancient temples of Luxor and Karnak, the oldest temple compound in the world. Visit the historical sights of Kom Ombo, including the tombs of Theban rulers, ancient kings, and queens of several dynasties. Well, it’s not done yet. Continue your journey to The Temple of Edfu — the best-preserved ancient temple in Egypt and the second largest. Then, get ready to explore Aswan where you will get a chance to admire the Phile Temple, built to worship the Goddess Isis. Now, hold your breath & fly down to Jeddah, the gateway to the sacred city of Mecca. Next, you will travel to Al-Ula, an ancient oasis boosting 7000 years of history. Your tour of Egypt and Saudi Arabia will come to an end, and you will head home filled with fascinating memories that will last you a lifetime!
Prepare to be amazed by ancient splendors and fascinating world wonders in one of the largest countries in North Africa with this tour of Egypt! Your journey will begin in Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, and the cultural hub of the Arabic world. Take the opportunity to visit the Egyptian Museum to see the most significant depository of Egyptian antiquities on earth or head on a trip to Alexandria, a fascinating city dubbed the Pearl of the Mediterranean. From there you will board your flight to Luxor, known for its tantalizing tombs, temples, and landmarks. Board your luxurious four-night cruise on the Nile as you set sail to Esna and visit the Valley of the Kings and Queens. Discover the Temple of Edfu, the best-preserved ancient temple in all of Egypt, visit the Temple of Sobek during your trip to Kom Ombo, and explore the southernmost city in Egypt with a trip to Aswan. Bask in the beauty of the Philae Temple as you invoke the healing powers of the goddess Isis before you make your way back to Cairo, where your small-group tour of Egypt will come to an end. You will head home filled with unforgettable memories!
Sailing, yachting and motor boating
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
This Egypt trip will take you through the most fascinating landmarks and famous attractions. Begin your tour in Cairo, one of the most magnificent cities in Africa, boasting Arab culture and Egyptian attractions. From there, you will travel to Aswan and visit the Philae Temple dedicated to the Goddess Isis, along with the Aswan High Dam. Board a cruise on the Nile and see many sites along the river from Aswan to Luxor, including the Sobek and Horus Temple in Kom Ombo, along with the breathtaking Edfu Temple. Uncover fascinating attractions in Luxor as you visit the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. End your tour of Egypt in Cairo, where you will discover the Great Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza.
This comprehensive 14-day journey commences in Jordan's bustling capital, Amman. Your exploration delves into the country's rich history and culture, starting with visits to the unique hilltop town of As-Salt, a UNESCO site celebrated for its Ottoman architecture and interfaith harmony, and the magnificent Roman ruins of Jerash. Cultural immersion continues with an authentic 'Daily Life Trail' experience and lunch with a local family in As-Salt, plus a street food tasting in Amman. The itinerary then follows the historic King's Highway south, taking in the biblical sites of Madaba and Mount Nebo, and the Crusader-era Shobak Castle, before arriving at the phenomenal Nabataean city of Petra for a full day's exploration of its rock-carved wonders, including the iconic Treasury reached via the narrow Siq canyon.
Following the awe-inspiring Petra, the adventure leads into the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Here, you'll enjoy a thrilling jeep safari through the iconic scenery made famous by T.E. Lawrence and spend a night under the stars at a traditional Bedouin camp, experiencing renowned local hospitality and cuisine. The Jordanian leg concludes with a visit to the remarkable Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, offering a unique opportunity to float effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters. Throughout Jordan, optional activities enhance the experience, ranging from Petra by Night and cookery classes to various desert excursions in Wadi Rum and potential canyoning in Wadi Mujib (seasonal).
Transitioning to Egypt, you will travel from Amman to Cairo by air. It's worth noting that this flight is not included in the tour price, offering flexibility in booking, while the necessary airport transfers in both cities remain part of the service. The Egyptian adventure immediately immerses you in ancient history with a visit to the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx, complemented by a taste of local life with an included Koshary lunch. Travelling south via overnight train, you'll explore Aswan, visit the beautifully relocated Philae Temple on its island setting, and experience Nubian culture firsthand with a stay in a local village. A major highlight is sailing the Nile aboard a traditional felucca, offering a peaceful perspective on riverside life and including an overnight stay onboard (with hotel upgrade options available). An optional early morning trip to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel is also offered.
Continuing north, the tour reaches Luxor, often described as the world's greatest open-air museum. Included tours cover the West Bank's Valley of the Kings, the impressive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the village of the tomb builders at Deir El-Medina, and the towering Colossi of Memnon. Optional excursions allow for exploration of the vast Karnak Temple complex and the beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple at night, along with potential hot air balloon rides over the ancient sites at sunrise. The trip utilises overnight trains for travel between Cairo and Upper Egypt (with sleeper upgrades available) before concluding back in Cairo, offering free time or optional final explorations, such as the Egyptian Museum or vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar, before your departure transfer.
Accommodation is in comfortable mid-range hotels, Bedouin tents with proper beds in Wadi Rum, a friendly local Nubian guesthouse in Aswan, plus one night on board the felucca sailboat on the Nile.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Sleeper Train, Tent, Resort
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairo, Amman, Abu Simbel, Luxor
Cairo, Amman, Abu Simbel, Luxor, Petra, Jerash, Aswan
12% OFF TODAYThis deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Follow the allure of the Nile, uncover complex legends, and retrace the steps of the pharaohs in ancient Egypt. Stand in awe before the iconic Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza – one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. Embark on a 7-night cruise on the Nile, the world’s longest river. In Luxor, explore the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon, and the impressive Temple of Karnak. Partake in a special evening and dress up to join the fun at a traditional galabeya party. Take in the scenery aboard a felucca (wooden sailboat) during a scenic boat ride in Aswan. Egypt's fascinating story waits to be discovered.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Ship Cabin
Age Range
1-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairo, Luxor, Kom Ombo, Aswan
Cairo, Luxor, Kom Ombo, Aswan
12% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
This 16-day tour offers a captivating journey through Egypt and Jordan, exploring ancient wonders, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes. You'll begin in Cairo, where you'll witness the iconic Pyramids of Giza and delve into Egyptian history at the renowned Egyptian Museum. But it's not just about the sights, you'll also have the opportunity to savour the local flavours. During your time in Cairo, a traditional Koshary lunch awaits. This beloved Egyptian dish is a delightful mix of rice, lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It's a true culinary adventure for your taste buds!
An overnight sleeper train then transports you to Aswan, the gateway to Nubian culture. Here, you'll visit the majestic Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, and experience the unique charm of a traditional Nubian village. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local life, surrounded by brightly painted houses adorned with symbolic patterns. Explore the bustling local markets, brimming with handcrafted souvenirs and aromatic spices, and in the evening, share a delicious home-cooked dinner with a Nubian family, savouring traditional dishes and enjoying their warm hospitality. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the Nubian people and their rich cultural heritage.
Next, you'll embark on a felucca sailing trip down the Nile, offering a tranquil and authentic perspective of rural Egyptian life. You'll continue to Luxor, exploring the magnificent Karnak and Luxor Temples, as well as the Valley of the Kings, before returning to Cairo for further exploration.
The journey then takes you from the shores of Egypt across the Red Sea to Jordan. You'll board a ferry that will transport you to the captivating desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Here, you'll spend a night in a Bedouin camp, enjoying traditional Jordanian cuisine like 'Zarb', a dish of lamb and chicken cooked underground in Bedouin style. The next day, embark on a jeep safari through the dramatic desert landscape, stopping to climb sand dunes and admire towering rock formations. You'll also have the chance to engage in authentic Bedouin activities, like walking with a shepherd, learning about sheep shearing, and even trying your hand at bread making.
From Wadi Rum, you'll journey to the lost city of Petra, exploring this ancient Nabataean wonder via a less-crowded back route that offers breathtaking mountain views. You'll also visit Little Petra and the Monastery, before descending into the heart of Petra to marvel at iconic sights like the Treasury. The adventure continues with a visit to the Dead Sea, where you can experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in its salty waters. You'll also hike the Siq Trail in Wadi Mujib, a thrilling gorge walk through shallow waters and past cascading waterfalls.
The tour concludes with explorations of Jordan's historical and religious sites, including the Byzantine mosaics of Madaba, Mount Nebo where Moses viewed the Promised Land, and the well-preserved Greco-Roman city of Jerash. After a final night in Amman, you'll depart with unforgettable memories of your journey through Egypt and Jordan.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Sleeper Train, Resort, Tent, Guest House
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairo, Amman, Aswan, Luxor, Jera
Cairo, Amman, Aswan, Luxor, Jerash, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum
12% OFF TODAYThis deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
The “second day” the flight is SUPER early and you have to leave the hotel at 4 am.
That was not communicated anywhere and we didn’t arrive at the hotel u til after 11 pm the night before. It made the morning very difficult!
Also, it would be helpful if there was a place by the day noting if women needed to cover shoulders/knees or men knees. When I was packing and googling, it said that at Kom Ombo (and most of the temples) it was recommended to have shoulder and knees covered, but when we got there I was told we didn’t need it. I had a lot more pants packed then I needed and that would have been helpful to know when I actually needed to wear more conservative clothing or having my hair covered.
Overall the itinerary was good. We saw a lot and had a great guide!
We were on the Steinberger cruise ship - I would not recommend that one again. Very limited. We were on Thai ship with another group from Trafalgar that paid less for the tour and we had no extras. We allowed one drink at dinner and one bottle of water.. anything more we had to pay for. They didn’t have coffee/tea available throughout the day for free. It seemed like they were nickel and diming the guests. I have been on other River cruises and unlimited water, beverages at dinner, and feee coffee/tea throughout the day in the lounge was accessible.
AdventureCruise
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Ship Cabin
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairo, Luxor, Edfu, Aswan
Cairo, Luxor, Edfu, Aswan
12% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Embark on an extraordinary 8-day journey through the heart of Ancient Egypt. Begin in Cairo, exploring the iconic Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Memphis, and Saqqara, then delve into the vast Egyptian Museum with its Tutankhamun treasures. Fly to Luxor to cruise the majestic Nile, visiting the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. Witness the grandeur of the Aswan High Dam, with an optional Abu Simbel visit or hot air balloon ride. Conclude your adventure back in Cairo, with free time for final exploration or an optional Khan-el-Khalili bazaar visit, offering an unparalleled immersion into Egypt's timeless wonders.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the treasures of ancient Egypt with our classic 8-day tour, meticulously designed to immerse you in the splendor of this timeless civilization. Throughout your adventure, indulge in the comfort of luxurious 5-star accommodations, ensuring your stay is as enchanting as the sites you'll explore.
Your odyssey commences amidst the bustling streets of Cairo, where you'll delve into the mysteries of the past with visits to iconic landmarks. Behold the awe-inspiring Pyramids, stand in the shadow of the enigmatic Sphinx, and marvel at the architectural marvel of the Step Pyramid at Saqqara. Each monument whispers tales of pharaohs and dynasties long gone, painting a vivid picture of Egypt's rich heritage.
Next, a brief internal flight transports you to Luxor, where the majestic River Nile beckons. Prepare to embark on a four-night odyssey aboard a luxurious 5-star cruise ship, setting sail from Luxor to Aswan. As you traverse the tranquil waters, adorned with picturesque landscapes, you'll encounter ancient temples steeped in myth and legend. Explore the grandeur of the temples at Edfu and Komombo, where the echoes of ancient rituals still resonate. From the sun-drenched deck of your vessel, witness the timeless rhythm of rural Egyptian life unfold along the riverbanks, a living tableau of tradition and tranquility.
Arriving in Aswan, a sanctuary of serenity nestled along the Nile's shores, you'll discover the exquisite island temple of Philae. Admire its graceful columns and intricate hieroglyphs, a testament to the artistry of ancient craftsmen. Glide across the tranquil waters aboard a felucca sailboat, savoring the gentle breeze and panoramic views that have inspired poets and travelers for millennia.
As your journey draws to a close, return to Cairo for a captivating finale. Explore the hallowed halls of the renowned Egyptian Museum, home to the priceless treasures of Tutankhamun's tomb. Here, artifacts of unparalleled beauty and significance await, offering a poignant glimpse into the splendor of Egypt's royal past.
With memories of ancient wonders and modern luxuries intertwined, our classic 8-day tour promises an immersive exploration of Egypt's timeless allure, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
