DAYS 1 – 4

Upon arrival on Day 2 you are transferred to your hotel. We begin our explorations on Day 3 at with the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, flanked by two smaller tombs and the Sphinx. By special permission we are able to enter one of the royal burial chambers within. Travel to the original capital of Egypt, Memphis, and see the pyramids built in nearby Sakkara and Dashur. The dramatic story of the pyramids comes into focus during an evening Sound and Light show. New discoveries continue to be made, and we meet with an archaeologist to learn about the skill and infinite patience required to uncover the distant and fragile past.

Mena House Oberoi, Cairo

DAY 5

After we arrive in Aswan, we stop to appreciate the Temple of Isis at Philae. Once submerged, it now sits grandly in the midst of a scenic lake. Nearby, the massive Unfinished Obelisk, carved in granite, was abandoned in the quarry before it was completed.

Hotel Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, Aswan

DAYS 6 – 8

It’s a short hop to Abu Simbel for a close-up look at the massive rock temples, originally carved out of a mountainside during the reign of Ramses II. 

Returning to Aswan, we board the Sonesta St. George I, our home for the next three nights. Stops along our route include Kom Ombo to see an unusual double temple. At Edfu we explore the well-preserved sandstone Temple of Horus. 

We disembark our cruise in Luxor. Built atop the ancient settlement of Thebes, Luxor’s ancient monuments now stand in the middle of a modern city. The Temple of Karnak grew over time; some thirty pharaohs contributed to the building. The Luxor Temple is a remarkably delicate work by architect Amenhotep and is connected to Karnak by an avenue of sphinxes. The Luxor Museum is a gem of striking and uncluttered design. Here the emphasis is on displaying the small but impressive collection.

Sonesta St. George I

DAY 9

For nearly 500 years, the rulers of the New Kingdom were buried in the Valley of the Kings. The Valley of Queens houses the tombs of high officials and royal children, along with queens and concubines. Tonight we celebrate our discoveries on a sunset cruise aboard a traditional felucca.

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, Luxor

DAYS 10 & 11

Long the largest city in the Arabic-speaking world, life in Cairo is frenetic and exhilarating. We enter the Citadel, which was fortified by Saladin against Crusader attacks, and visit the Mohammad Ali Mosque, also known as the Alabaster Mosque because of its extensive use of that luminous stone. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the medieval Khan El- Khalili Bazaar, past stalls hawking everything from woodwork and glassware to perfumes and other curiosities. Haggling skills are welcome, and useful for those wishing to make a purchase. We continue our stay with a visit to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities to investigate the royal mummies’ hall, and 12 rooms devoted to the treasures found in the boy-king Tutankhamen’s tomb. Then it’s back to modern day hospitality with lunch at a private home, and what is sure to be stimulating conversation about life in Egypt. 

On Day 12 you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home or on to your next destination.

Four Seasons Nile Plaza, Cairo

Package price is per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement applies. Intra-tour air pricing is subject to change. International airfare is additional. Other restrictions may apply. Contact us for complete journey details.

Mena House Oberoi
Cairo, Egypt

This palatial hotel in the shadow of the Great Pyramids in Giza has enchanted guests since 1869. Located in forty acres of jasmine scented gardens, Mena House Oberoi has played host to kings and emperors, Heads of State and celebrities. Its royal history is reflected in luxurious interiors that are embellished with exquisite antiques, handcrafted furniture and rich textiles. A variety of international as well as Egyptian cuisine is on offer at the excellent restaurants and bars in the hotel. All guest accommodation at Mena House Oberoi is air conditioned with satellite television, broadband internet access, electronic safes and hair dryers. Rooms and Suites are lavishly appointed with traditionally inspired furnishings and rich carpets. The hotel offers 2 different luxury experiences in which its heritage has been preserved; in the Old Palace Wing are located 76 rooms and suites, while contemporary elegance has been lavishly designed into the Nile Wing’s 62 rooms and suites.

A Travel + Leisure "World's Best" hotel for 2012

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract
Aswan, Egypt

Indulge in personalized service at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan. Located in the Nubian desert on the banks of the Nile, opposite Elephantine island, the hotel is majestically positioned on a shelf of pink granite overlooking the grand river. Behind its Victorian façade, the hotel retains its original beauty, receiving visitors in an historic lobby with polished marble floors and high, classic Islamic arches.

M/S Sonesta St. George I
The Nile River

Arguably the best boat on the Nile, the Sonesta St. George I boasts five star deluxe facilities with the service to match. This elegantly refined cruise ship is perfect for discerning travelers. See many of Egypt’s ancient wonders and take the opportunity to relax and unwind in sumptuous surroundings. Sail serenely between Aswan and Luxor on the majestic River Nile as 5,000 years of history unfold before you on a magnificent journey. Travcoa guests stay in Presidential Suites – each a 474 sq. ft. outside cabin on the C or D deck. Amenities include direct-dial international phone, 23” LCD screen TV with 16 channels, memory stick, and live sailing channel. Sound proof and fire resistant walls, wireless internet facilities, digital safe, mini bar, hair dryer, laptops in suites, double glass panoramic French windows, and coffee and tea tray in all cabins and suites. Tech wood bathrooms are fitted with a full spa unit which includes steam bath, jacuzzi, and water massage.

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
Luxor, Egypt

Escape to the serenity of the lush banks of the Nile and receive Egypt's most attentive, friendly service at this idyllic Hilton Worldwide Resort. With glorious, uninterrupted views from the water’s edge location, the newly renovated Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa is the ideal base from which to explore the region’s rich and ancient culture. Choose from 8 stylish bars and restaurants, indulge in a luxury holistic treatment at the tranquil Nayara Spa, bathe in the resort’s two stunning infinity pools or simply relax in a shaded cabana hammock beside the Nile.

Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza
Cairo, Egypt

This beacon of sophisticated hospitality rises on the legendary Corniche along the bank of the river. With commanding views of both the Nile and the Citadel, Four Seasons unites its timeless, caring, personalized attention with the dynamism of fast-forward Cairo. It is steps from Garden City’s historic mansions and a short taxi ride from Cairo’s attractions. The Four Seasons features an unparalleled spa, lush pool oasis, and eight eclectic choices for dining or entertainment. The guest rooms and suites are generously sized and reflect the vibrancy of contemporary Cairo, with bright interiors, natural wood finishes and chic, comfortable furnishings. All guest quarters offer panoramic views, whether across the Nile to the island of Zamalek and beyond, or towards the 12th-century Citadel. Triple-glazed windows ensure that interiors remain cool and quiet. Up-to-the-minute technology for communication and entertainment includes high-speed Internet wired and wireless access throughout. The spacious marble bathrooms incorporate Four Seasons signature features: deep soaking tub, separate glass-enclosed shower, large double vanity and, in a separate alcove, WC with telephone.

A Condé Nast Traveler "Best in the World" hotel and a Travel + Leisure "World's Best" hotel for 2012

Sharon Zimmerman

Sharon’s outstanding people skills have helped her to guide travelers on fascinating journeys to Asia, Africa and South America. Her favorite memories come from tours she led to the Hindu Kingdom of Nepal. In her own words, “You simply haven’t lived until you have been on the back of a galloping elephant!”

Travel Dates: November 10, 2013