Highlights of Egypt

Our fascinating journey into the depths of Egyptian culture and history begins at the vibrant capital, Cairo. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by a Ciconia representative at the airport. In the afternoon, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby with your fellow travellers and Tour Director. Savour the exotic and delicious Egyptian cuisine tonight on a group dinner.

As we drive alongside the Nile towards the Mediterranean to Alexandria, kickstart your cultural adventure stopping at the gorgeous Coptic Monasteries at Wadi el Natrun (if open). Plentiful chances await to dive deep into history, stroll the shopping streets and taste excellent local seafood. Comfortably pacing our trip, we rest at Alexandria tonight after a delicious Egyptian dinner.

It is time to explore this ancient city of utmost importance, home to the ruins of the Great Library and Lighthouse of Alexandria – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Join your Tour Director for a guided walking tour covering all the must-sees of the lively port town. Journey through history at the National Museum and the impressive Kom El Shoqafa Catacomb. We depart towards Cairo. You will have personal leisure time to enjoy as you please, your Tour Director will be happy to advise activities ideal to your tastes.

Prepare your lenses for an exceptional moment of cultural discovery, it’s time to soak in the glorious Pyramids and the Sphinx at the Giza plateau. Take a mental picture to engrave this unique sight in your memory and continue your adventure through the heart of Cairo frequenting all the hot-spots of cultural, historical, architectural and aesthetic importance. Following our comprehensive discovery, you can enjoy your personal leisure time to relax or continue your in-depth journey at your own pace.

Following a hefty breakfast, transfer to the airport for a seamless journey to Luxor, where you will start your discovery of marvellous monuments of various civilizations of the Nile. Walk the remnants of much-fabled ancient Thebes through the Avenue of the Sphinx and visit Temple of Amun nearby Luxor. Embark your 5-star Nile Cruise – with premium facilities including an outdoor pool on-board – and continue your discovery at the remarkable Luxor Museum. Here you can find an astonishing display of artefacts and items from various era, including pieces from Tutankhamun’s famed tomb. Your comfortable room aboard awaits you tonight as we dock at Luxor, where you may enjoy a sound & light show at Karnak Temple.

Rising up to the breeze of the Nile, you will have the chance to float over Luxor valley in a hot air balloon today! Discover the stunning Valley of the Kings and savour the extravagant efforts to honour pharaohs of Egypt in eternity. Enjoy a locally prepared meal by our crew on board. Diving deep into ancient history, uncover the remnants of eras that have shaped the fertile banks of the Nile as we visit the Luxor Temple, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. Board your premium cruise to sail towards charming Edfu.

Start the day by discovering the treasures of ancient Edfu. Sail upstream to where time almost hasn’t moved for a thousand years, Kom-Ombo. Experience the traditional architecture and way of living as you stroll the charming village with your Travel Director. We will sample local delicacies over a traditional dinner on board our cruise.

Sailing to Aswan in deluxe style, it is time to explore the marvelous Abu Simbel on a fantastic optional excursion. Referred to as a must-see for all history and archaeology enthusiasts, ride out to discover the two massive temples carved into the bedrock in impressive detail to honor the rule of Pharaoh Ramesses II.  In the evening, join the optional Nubian Village Visit, a unique experience accompanied by live music. As we set sail to the village, experience the unique traditional feluccas that were used for transport on the Nile for centuries. Watch the sun set behind the shimmering reflections of feluccas on the Nile.

Start the day exploring the Temple of Isis – the divine mother of the pharaohs and Philae Temple. Then transfer to Aswan airport and fly off to Cairo in comfort, leaving you time to rest following your astounding cultural adventure.

After a relaxing rest, we continue our in-depth discovery into vibrant Cairo and its countless treasures - allowing plenty of time for you to savour your adventure at ease. Stroll the city with our expert local guide on the second leg of our sightseeing tour. Visit the immense collection of ancient artefacts at The Grand Egyptian Museum, Citadel of Saladin, Mosque of Mohammed Ali, Hanging Church, and the buzzing famous bazaar of Khan el-Khalili. Late in the afternoon, you may discover the city on your own terms to have a final visit to your preferred sights and cement your favourite moments. Your seat for dinner is reserved at your hotel in the evening.

Our epic adventure into the wonderland of Egyptian culture comes to an end over breakfast with newfound friends. Make sure to bid farewells and exchange numbers before checking-out of the hotel (at 11:00). Complementary airport transfers are available all day, have a safe and smooth journey!