GIZA - PYRAMIDS OF GIZA - SPHINX

Pyramids of Giza - Experience the grandeur of one of the Ancient Seven Wonders of the World - The Great Pyramids of Giza. Discover these remarkable structures that have stood for over 4500 years, being the oldest wonder of the world and the only one to remain largely intact. Entry inside Khafre’s pyramid, the second-tallest and second-largest of the Pyramids of Giza and the tomb of Pharaoh Khafre [Chefren], is included. Capture the magnificence of the Great Sphinx of Giza, a limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human, one of Egypt’s most visited sites. Two knowledgeable and enthusiastic Egyptologist guides will accompany you on this and all other sightseeing tours.

Entry into Khafre’s Pyramid is included.
Optional Activities - Entrance to Great Pyramid of Cheops - Entrance to Solar Boat Museum - Camel ride 30 mins - Horse ride 30 mins - Quad motorbike Tour 1 hour.

Saqqara (Sakkara) Pyramids - Continue your adventure to Sakkara, an ancient necropolis with many half-buried tombs and the famous Zhoser’s step pyramid. Witness the Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest complete stone building complex known in history. With recent discoveries of 27 coffins in this area, it is a hotspot for archaeologists.

After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Memphis, the old capital of Egypt. The Memphis archaeological zone was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979.

Transfer back to the hotel for a free evening. For those not jet-lagged and wishing to continue into the night, head to trendy Zamalek for dinner and then to a rooftop bar for a shisha and a beer overlooking the Nile. [Food & Drinks at your cost]

Sound & Light Egypt - Optional Activity - Sound & Light show at the Pyramids. Step back in time with the Pyramid Sound and Light Show. This show takes you on a journey thousands of years ago, bringing the Egyptian legacy to life! The history is retold by the sphinx, unraveling ancient secrets. The show narrates the history of great kings, Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Choose from 10 different languages to hear this legacy! Show starts at 7.30pm.

OLD CAIRO TOUR - THE EGYPTIAN MUSEUM

The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities - No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. With over 120,000 artifacts, the museum houses an incredible exhibit depicting ancient Egypt’s glorious reign. Mummies, sarcophagi, pottery, jewelry, and of course, King Tutankhamen’s treasures, are all there. The boy-king’s death mask, discovered in his tomb, is made of solid gold and is described as the most beautiful object ever made. Be transported back in time as you marvel at a vast collection of Pharaonic antiques.

The Egyptian Museum contains many important pieces of ancient Egyptian history. It houses the world’s largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities.

Cairo Citadel - Salah El-Din Citadel, one of the world’s greatest monuments to medieval warfare. Resembling a typical early medieval fortress, with large imposing gateways, towers, and high defending walls, the Citadel is one of Cairo’s main attractions and probably the most popular non-pharaonic monument in the Egyptian capital. The prominent fortress houses three mosques, including the impressive Mohamed Ali Mosque, a carriage museum, a military museum, and a garden museum, all worth a visit. You are allowed to explore the fortifications, and the views are spectacular from this height. The citadel is also home to the impressive Gawhara Palace (the Jewel Palace), named after Gawhara Hanem, Mohamed Ali’s last wife. Built in 1814, it housed the ruler’s administration and was used as a personal residence by the Egyptian leader. Beautiful gold inscriptions adorn the walls of this majestic Ottoman-influenced palace.

Hanging Church (El Muallaqa, Sitt Mariam, St Mary) - Discover the indigenous cultural roots of the Copts, descendants of the ancients. Visit one of the most beautiful churches in the Middle East, known as the Hanging Church. Built on top of the Roman fortress gatehouse called Babylon, the nave of the Hanging Church is suspended over the passageway. Located just south of the Coptic Museum in Cairo, the Hanging Church boasts 13 magnificent pillars in its interior, representing Jesus and his 12 apostles. Listen to the ancient liturgical Coptic language used in service and witness a living vestige of Ancient Egyptian history.

Khan Al-Khalili - Khan Al-Khalili bazaar, where you will be transported back in time to an old Arab souk. Shop owners call you to their stalls, the scent of spices, the hustle and bustle of trade, and the many beautiful objects available for purchase will have you lost among alleys for hours. Test your haggling skills when buying statuettes, spices, souvenirs, silver jewelry, t-shirts, galabiyyas [Traditional gowns worn by men], belly dancing costumes, or anything else.

When your shopping is done, meet back at Fishawi Ahwa [Cafe], one of Cairo’s oldest cafes [250 years old], in the alleys of Khan Al Khalili. Wind up the day with a nice cup of strongly brewed tea and a fruit-flavored shisha.

Welcome Dinner & Show. Tonight, experience Egyptian cuisine and culture. Dine in true Egyptian style, sharing food, telling stories, and enjoying more food. Finish the night at a bar and shisha for those who want to continue!

CAIRO - ASWAN [Cruise Embarkment - Temple of Philae]

Temple of Philae - After breakfast and a casual mid-morning check-out, transfer from the hotel to Cairo Airport for a quick domestic flight to Aswan [Flight time about an hour]. Upon arrival in Aswan, transfer to and embark on a Deluxe 5-Star Nile cruise ship, which will be home for the next 3 nights. After lunch onboard, visit the Temple of Philae. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, the Temple of Philae is located in a beautiful setting, landscaped to match the original site of the temple when it was relocated by UNESCO after the building of the Aswan Dam threatened the site. The temple has several shrines and sanctuaries, including one to the Roman Emperor Trajan’s Kiosk, also known as Pharaoh’s Bed. Option to visit the temple at night to attend the Sound and Light show.

Aswan Botanical Garden - In the evening, sail the Nile River on a traditional Felucca to El Nabatat Island or Kitchener’s Island. On the way, sail by the Aswan Dam and the waters of Lake Nasser, the world’s largest man-made lake. Continue sailing to Kitchener’s Island, which constitutes the Aswan Botanical Garden. Indulging his passion for beautiful palms and plants, Kitchener turned the entire island into the stunning Aswan Botanical Gardens, importing plants from the Far East, India, and parts of Africa. Relax in the wide-open spaces of this garden’s breathtaking natural beauty or wind through the extensive exhibit hall of towering palm trees. More than 400 species of subtropical vegetation exist in this urban oasis that’s just a Nile cruise away. Sail back to the cruise ship to unwind and have dinner onboard, then enjoy an evening show at the bar.

Nubian Village - Sail on the Nile by motorboat to the Nubian Village, located on the west bank of the river, just opposite Soheil Island and near the Aswan Dam. Passing by the famous hotel First Cataract of Aswan, this fantastic tour to the Nubian Village allows you to meet a Nubian family and learn about their simple lifestyle, culture, and traditions. If you choose this activity, it would replace the Botanical Gardens activity.

ASWAN - EDFU [Temple of Kom Ombo]

Abu Simbel Temple Complex - If you choose to visit Abu Simbel [highly recommended], but also understand if you want to stay back onboard the cruise ship and relax by the pool! An early morning wake-up with a breakfast box and coach ride to the small village of Abu-Simbel, about 260 km south of Aswan. Perched atop a hill overlooking the Nile, the majestic Abu-Simbel Temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dedicated to Ramses II & Queen Nefertari, the world-famed temples will take your breath away. Ozymandias is another name for Ramses II, the most powerful king of Egypt’s 19th dynasty. Ramses’ reign began a golden age in Egypt, brought on by his successful military. The interior of the Great Temple is decorated with engravings showing Ramesses and Nefertari paying homage to the gods.
We will then head back to the cruise ship for lunch and set sail for the Temple of Kom Ombo.

Temple of Kom Ombo - While sailing towards the city of Edfu, standing on a promontory at a bend in the Nile River dedicated to Sobek and Horus, sits the Temple of Kom Ombo. With its two identical entrances, hypostyle halls, and sanctuaries, the symmetry of the temple layout is a tribute to the mythical link the two gods shared. Built on an outcrop, with spectacular reliefs on the walls, where crocodiles used to gather in ancient times. The temple is a testament to the importance Ancient Egyptian priests placed in the natural cycles and crocodiles of the Nile. Visit the Crocodile museum to see its beautiful collection of mummified crocodiles and ancient carvings, which is well lit and well explained.

EDFU – ESNA- LUXOR [Temple of Horus]

Temple of Horus - After breakfast, disembark and take a horse and carriage ride to visit The Temple Of Horus. This Ptolemaic temple, built between 237 and 57 BC, is one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in Egypt. Preserved by desert sand, which filled the place after the pagan cult was banned, the temple is dedicated to Horus, the avenging son of Isis and Osiris. With its roof intact, it is also one of the most atmospheric of ancient buildings. After re-embarkment, spend a few leisurely hours cruising to the magical ancient city of Luxor [Our ancestral home]. The only decisions to make at this point are whether to soak up some sun with cocktails, spend time in the pool, or at the bar! All while having lunch onboard.

Esna Lock - Esna Lock has two entrances, the front entrance is 32 meters in length while the back entrance is 29.3 meters long. 40 meters in depth Diaphragm walls have been used to construct the Lock, and a bridge has been constructed and rested over the walls.

Filling the lock with water and emptying it is carried out through four automatic gates while there is a control tower that manages filling and emptying the lock, which takes about 6 minutes.

The lock is a scenic photo spot while crossing onto Luxor from Edfu. Arrive in Luxor just after lunch.

Temple of Karnak - Upon arrival in Luxor, visit the world’s largest temple complex, Karnak Temple, to see the Temple of Amun and the Temple of Luxor. See its courtyard and the granite statues of Ramses II. This temple was built by various Pharaohs during different dynasties. Highlights include the Avenue of Sphinxes, the Hypostyle Hall, the Obelisks of Queen Hatshepsut and Thutmosis, and the temple of Amon adorned with lotus and papyrus designs.
The tour then proceeds by bus to visit the Luxor Temple.
We highly recommend booking the Optional Activity - The Sound & Lights Show at Karnak Temple.

Luxor Temple - The temple has been in almost continuous use as a place of worship right up to the present day. This is where our ancestral roots are evident from what was known as the Christian era, the temple’s hypostyle hall was converted into a Coptic church, representing some of the most famous Coptic texts in Christian history. Following the demise of the Christians’ dominance, the mosque of Sufi Shaykh Yusuf Abu al-Hajjaj was constructed.

Karnak Open Air Museum - Visit the largest open-air museum in the world, the “Karnak Temple” in Luxor, and attend the fascinating Karnak Sound and Light show. Book the ticket to the show and discover the secrets behind its ancient name, “Thebes”, which features the most significant monuments. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the Pharaohs’ various achievements. As you pass through the gates of Luxor, be stunned by this huge city that won immortality through its giant monuments and magnificent temples.

Although most of the monuments are damaged, this temple remains one of the biggest achievements for Egypt. During the Karnak temple Light and Sound show, learn more about these glorious achievements by choosing from 10 languages to hear the story.

LUXOR [The Valley of The Kings - Hatshepsut]

Valley of the Kings - After breakfast, disembark and take a short trip to the west bank to witness the marvel that is The Valley of The Kings. With a name that encapsulates all of the grandeur of Egypt’s ancient past, the Valley of the Kings is one of the most magnificent tourist destinations you will ever witness. Our ancestors spent time and treasure creating hidden underground mausoleums, the most famed collection of such elaborate tombs you will see with your own eyes. Enter three different tombs and experience the murals and hieroglyphs that cover the walls of the royal tombs, providing invaluable insight into the funerary rituals and beliefs of ancient ancestors.

Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el Bahari - After visiting the factory of the alabaster stones, located beneath massive cliffs near the west bank of the Nile, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, also known as Deir el Bahri, is dedicated to Amon-Ra, the sun god. Designed by an architect named Senemut, the temple is unique because it was designed like classical architecture. The lengthy, colonnaded terrace, some of which are 97 ft high, pylons, courts, and hypostyle hall. Inside you’ll see the sun court, chapel, and sanctuary.

Colossi of Memnon - The two faceless Colossi of Memnon, originally representing Pharaoh Amenhotep III, rising majestically about 18m from the plain, are the first monuments tourists see when they visit the west bank. These magnificent colossi, each cut from a single block of stone and weighing 1000 tonnes, sat at the eastern entrance to the funerary temple of Amenophis III, the largest on the west bank.

After checking into the hotel, enjoy the rest of the day free to relax, shop in the excellent bazaar (open until quite late), or perhaps experience the atmosphere of a local teahouse. Several options are available, like a Foodie tour of Luxor, a quad bike safari, or a personal visit to an ancestral village over 1500 years old, where a family mud brick home still stands eight generations later.

LUXOR - HURGHADA [Dendera Temple Complex]

Dendera Temple Complex - After breakfast and a casual morning, depart Luxor. At this stage of The Magic of Egypt Tour, you would have experienced most of the ancient and celebrated antiquities of Egyptian civilization to be seen on the trip. In other words, “The touristy stuff is out of the way”…Yay! Now for some beach time, board the coach/bus and head for the Red Sea Riviera. On the way, witness one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt - Dendera Temple [I know right!]. See vivid scenes depicting the Roman emperor Trajan paying homage to the Ancient Egyptian goddess Hathor and other mythical reliefs that adorn this gorgeous Graeco-Roman temple.
Continue the journey for a couple of hours until reaching the pristine coastline of Hurghada.

Hurghada - Spanning over 40 km of pristine coastline, Hurghada City has year-round sunshine, incredibly beautiful coral reefs, and dozens of exciting attractions in a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. Even though it’s known as a top five diving destination on the planet, it still has something for everyone, even the non-divers: beach fun, extreme water sports, clubbing, and golfing are only some of the options to choose from. There are numerous luxury locations nearby, visit Soma Bay, Makadi Bay, and Sahl el Hashish. On this day, you may decide to join optional tours.
[Here’s a fact for you - Egypt has 3 of the Top 10 Diving spots in the world] So bring your Diving License, and if you don’t have one, well…. You Have Time!!

HURGHADA [Sea Trip Giftun Island]

Giftun Islands - You will never want the day to end, and it’s understandable. What could be more tempting and fulfilling than lying on magnificent sandy beaches and swimming in the crystal clear water of the Red Sea while peeking at incredible coral heads dotting the shallow lagoons surrounding the island? The area is full of colorful fish species, and some guests are even lucky enough to swim with dolphins around Giftun.
If you want to scuba dive the 3rd best diving spot in the world “The Brothers” or simply want to do an Introductory Divers Course, let us know, happy to arrange a private or group charter.
After your day of snorkeling, return to Hurghada for an evening dinner, maybe some cold regional beer to wash it down. > You might want to experience one of our optional activities - including a camel ride in the desert or what we highly recommend, a quad bike experience in the desert with a barbecue dinner under the stars with the local Bedouin tribes….Amazing!!!

HURGHADA - CAIRO

Cairo - After breakfast and a casual mid-morning check-out of the hotel, board the coach transfer back to Cairo and to the hotel Steigenberger Pyramids, which you are already familiar with, and enjoy free time for the rest of the day. We highly recommend a treatment at Planet Spa by Steigenberger to get rid of the aches, maybe a couple’s massage.

This is also the point of booking, planning, and reading all these travel itineraries [like this one] where decisions need to be made, like how much beach time do you want?
CHECK OUT the other Itinerary The Magic of Egypt Tour with Sharm El Sheik, a 14-day package, which offers exactly that….. Bikinis & Martinis!….I know right, decisions decisions!!

CAIRO - ALEXANDRIA [Montazah Palace - Qeit-bey Citadel]

Wadi El Natrun - After breakfast, travel to the desert area of Wadi El Natrun, located about two hours from Cairo heading towards Alexandria.

The first stop is at the Monastery of Saint Pishoy. Standing in front of the magnificent white domes, which contrast sharply with the red desert landscapes, learn all about the history of the saint who founded the abbey. Also, learn how that episode has been wiped from the annals of history and why that may have been intentional.

The next visit takes place at the Monastery of Saint Mary Deipara, commonly known as the Syrian monastery, which is dedicated to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. Inside, admire many wonderful visual artifacts such as the beautiful frescoes of the ceilings.

Montazah Gardens - On arrival in Alexandria, named after Alexander The Great, visit sites like Montazah Palace, set in extensive gardens and overlooking a truly beautiful stretch of coast. The palace mixes Turkish and Florentine architecture, with the central tower inspired by the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.

The highlights are the walks through the beautiful gardens surrounding the Palace, a green setting bordered by fine sand beaches and various walks. Stroll along the palm tree walkways or explore the several greenhouses, home to an impressive variety of plants.
After lunch, visit The Great Library of Alexandria, one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world. Also, visit Qeit-bey Citadel, considered one of the most important defensive forts not only in Egypt but along the Mediterranean coast.

ALEXANDRIA - CAIRO [El Alamein War Museum]

El Alamein War Museum - Today, before heading back to Cairo, explore a more recent period in Egyptian history with a visit to El Alamein War Museum located in El Alamein on the Mediterranean Sea. The final visit is to pay respects to the Diggers, seeing memorials to the ANZAC’s that played an important role in significant World War II battles. The area was a turning point in the North African campaign, where the Allies held out against, and eventually pushed back and defeated, the Afrika Korps of Rommel. The area contains a number of memorials from the countries who lost soldiers here – Greece, South Africa, Australia, Italy – as well as a war cemetery that’s home to the graves and names of the thousands who lost their lives.

Head back to Cairo in the afternoon where the tour sadly finishes :( BUT not before having a farewell drink or two!!
Check out the 3-night White Desert Trip

• Accommodation in 5 Star Deluxe Hotels
• 3-night 5 Star Nile River Cruise
• Sea Trip to Giftun Island
• Entry fees into Museum & Historical sites
• Welcome Dinner & Show
• Private Transportation [air-conditioned bus with restroom]
• All service charges and taxes
• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

• International Flights To & From Egypt
• Alcoholic beverages
• Gratuities
• Visas

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of Cairo’s Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, marvel at the grandeur of Abu Simbel’s monumental temples, cruise along the iconic Nile, and feel awe-inspired in the Valley of the Kings. With all your comforts attended to, Egypt offers a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and pharaonic wonders.

Join the exclusive and intimate “The Magic of Egypt Tour” for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Egypt through the lens of ancient Egyptians rather than as a typical tourist. Over the course of 11 days, explore the enchanting wonders of Egypt, uncovering hidden gems and culinary delights that even many locals are unaware of.
This journey is perfect for families, groups, solo travelers, and anyone in search of an authentic Egyptian adventure!
With roots in Australia and an Egyptian heritage, your hosts, along with two qualified Egyptologists and an experienced tour guide, will accompany you on all sightseeing excursions, ensuring a memorable experience.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.