Nile Cruise, Cairo, and Sharm Elsheikh
Description
This 11-day holiday offers an unforgettable exploration of Egypt’s most iconic sights, blending ancient history with serene relaxation by the Red Sea in Sharm Elsheikh.
Your journey begins with a flight from Spain to Aswan, where you will board a Nile cruise. Aswan, known for its tranquil beauty and ancient sites, marks the perfect starting point for an unforgettable adventure. The first stop on your cruise is Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, which is located on an island surrounded by serene waters. This site offers a blend of mythological significance and stunning natural scenery, making it a highlight of the journey. As you explore the temple, you’ll also encounter the cats that roam freely around the grounds, acting as natural guardians of this sacred space. These friendly felines are a beloved feature of Philae, and visitors are encouraged to interact with them—whether it’s playing, taking photos, or feeding them. Their striking beauty and gentle demeanor add a unique charm to the temple, making your visit even more memorable. From there, head to Kom Ombo, home to the unique double temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon-headed god Haroeris. The temple’s architecture provides a fascinating insight into Egyptian mythology and the religious practices of the ancient world.
As the cruise continues along the Nile, you’ll visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu, one of the best-preserved monuments in Egypt. Standing majestically along the riverbank, the temple offers a striking glimpse into ancient Egyptian religious life. On the East Bank of the Nile, explore the sprawling Karnak Temple Complex, a massive site dedicated to the god Amun-Ra, which includes towering obelisks, chapels, and the renowned Hypostyle Hall with its 134 colossal columns. Nearby, Luxor Temple stands as another testament to Egypt’s grandeur, with its illuminated façade and intricate reliefs depicting scenes from the lives of pharaohs and deities.
Crossing to the West Bank of the Nile, you will explore the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of legendary pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Ramses VI are carved into the cliffs. Inside these tombs, you will see vibrant wall paintings that depict the journey to the afterlife, with scenes from the Book of the Dead. Continue your exploration with a visit to the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir Elbahari, an extraordinary terraced structure built in honor of one of Egypt’s most powerful female pharaohs. The site is framed by towering cliffs and offers a striking contrast to the desert surroundings. Finish the day with a visit to the Colossi of Memnon, two monumental statues of Amenhotep III, which have stood watch over the Theban necropolis for over 3,400 years. Finally, you will take a flight to Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, where modern life intersects with ancient history.
The next day, visit the iconic Giza Plateau, home to the Pyramids of Cheops, Khafre, and Mycerinus. These massive stone structures, built more than 4,000 years ago, are an enduring testament to ancient Egypt’s architectural genius. The Great Sphinx, with its mysterious gaze, guards the pyramids, offering a sense of awe and wonder.
Your journey culminates in a three-night stay in Sharm Elsheikh, a resort city on the Red Sea in Sinai Peninsula renowned for its luxurious accommodations, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Here, you can unwind and relax in a tranquil environment, enjoying world-class facilities and beautiful views of the Red Sea. Sharm Elsheikh is an ideal destination for water enthusiasts, offering the chance to experience world-class snorkeling and diving in its crystal-clear waters. Explore vibrant coral reefs, renowned for their beauty and biodiversity. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, a desert safari by jeep is a must, where you can ride camels across the stunning, rugged landscape and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the vast desert.
After a peaceful and rejuvenating stay in Sharm Elsheikh, you will return to Cairo for your flight back to Spain, bringing with you memories of Egypt’s ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and serene landscapes.
This holiday seamlessly blends cultural exploration with relaxation, providing a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Egypt while unwinding in breathtaking surroundings. It's an exceptional way to discover the country's ancient wonders, vibrant traditions, and natural beauty, all in one unforgettable experience.
Visits
Nile Cruise: Philae Temple, Kom Ombo
Temple, Edfu Temple, Karnak Temples, Luxor Temple, Hatchepsut Temple, Valley of
the Kings, Colossi of Memnon.
Cairo: Giza Pyramids, the
Sphinx.
Flights
Departures from Madrid: Every Friday.
Itinerary
Departure on a special flight to Aswan. Arrival, assistance at the airport and transfer to the cruise. Dinner and overnight on board.
Full board. Visit to Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Possibility of an optional visit to Abu Simbel Temples by road, which consists of two temples; the Great Temple, built by King Ramses II, and the Small Temple, dedicated to his wife, Nefertari. Sailing to Kom Ombo. Upon arrival, a visit Temple of Sobek and Haroeris, who were considered arch-enemies in the Egyptian mythology. Night on board.
Full board. Departure to Edfu. Visit to Horus Temple, one of Egypt's best-preserved temples. Sail to Luxor. Upon arrival, visit to the Nile’s East Bank: Karnak Temples Complex and Luxor Temple. Night on board.
Breakfast. Disembarkation. Visit to The Nile’s West Bank: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple at Deir Elbahari, and Colossi of Memnon. At the indicated time, departure by flight to Cairo. Transfer to the hotel. Accommodation.
Breakfast. Visit to Giza Plateau, including the Pyramids of Cheops, Khafre, and Mycerinus, as well as the Great Sphinx. Visit to Papyrus Institute. Possibility of an optional visit to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt and Saqqara Necropolis, which contains the world’s first pyramid, the Step Pyramid. Free time for shopping and visits. Accommodation.
Breakfast. Free time. Possibility of an optional city tour: Egyptian Museum, Cairo Citadel and Alabaster Mosque, Coptic District, and Khan Elkhalili Bazar.
Breakfast. Free time. Possibility of an optional visit to Alexandria, Egypt’s old capital where Kom El Shoqafa Catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar, Qaitbay Fort, and Alexandria Library are located.
Breakfast. At the scheduled time, transfer to take a flight to Sharm Elsheikh. Arrival, assistance at the airport and transfer to the hotel. Accommodation on an all-inclusive basis.
Free day on an all-inclusive basis. Possibility of an optional tour to Ras Mohamed National Park by bus, which is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant marine life or the White Island tour on boat in the Red Sea, which is perfect for sunbathing, relaxing and snorkeling.
Free day on an all-inclusive basis. Possibility of an optional tour to Dahab, which is home to the Blue Hole, one of the most amazing places in the world for diving and snorkeling.
Breakfast. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport and flight to Cairo. Connection, according to flight schedule, to Spain. Arrival. End of our services.
Notes:
· The order of the itinerary may change without affecting the content of the visits.
· Inécia Tours is dedicated to supporting stray animals in archaeological sites during tours while promoting responsible tourism. For more information, please click here.