Egypt Special

Description

Set off on an unforgettable 8-day adventure through the ancient treasures of Egypt, beginning with a direct flight from Spain to Aswan. Upon arrival, board a Nile cruise that will be your floating sanctuary as you journey along the legendary Nile River, one of the world’s most iconic waterways. As you sail from one incredible destination to the next, you’ll uncover the timeless beauty, monumental architecture, and rich culture of ancient Egypt.

Your journey begins with a visit to the breathtaking Abu Simbel Temples, one of Egypt’s most impressive archaeological sites. These monumental temples, carved into the cliffs by the mighty Pharaoh Ramses II, include the Great Temple dedicated to Ramses himself and the smaller Temple of Hathor, honoring his beloved queen Nefertari. In the 1960s, these structures were meticulously relocated to higher ground to protect them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, making this UNESCO World Heritage site a truly remarkable example of engineering and preservation.

From Abu Simbel, return to Aswan to explore the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Located on an idyllic island in the Nile, this ancient temple is known for its stunning architecture and intricate hieroglyphic carvings that bring to life the myths surrounding Isis. The peaceful surroundings offer a tranquil escape, and you may be greeted by the playful cats that have long called this temple home.

Next, sail to Kom Ombo, where you’ll visit the fascinating Temple of Kom Ombo. This unique dual temple honors two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. The temple’s symmetrical design, with its grand columns and finely detailed carvings, provides insight into ancient Egyptian religious practices. Nearby, the Crocodile Museum offers additional context on the role of these revered creatures in Egyptian mythology and daily life.

Your Nile cruise continues to Edfu, where you’ll discover the magnificence of the Edfu Temple, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Dedicated to the god Horus, the temple’s towering pylons, majestic entrance, and detailed reliefs depict the rituals and beliefs central to ancient Egyptian religion. It’s an extraordinary place to explore, offering a deep connection to Egypt’s spiritual past.

Afterward, you will arrive in Luxor, the jewel of ancient Egypt, home to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring temples and tombs. Begin your exploration at the massive Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious site in Egypt. Karnak is a vast collection of sanctuaries, halls, and massive columns dedicated to the gods of ancient Egypt. The sheer scale of the complex, with its towering columns and monumental statues, leaves visitors in awe. Nearby, the Luxor Temple captivates with its grand avenue of sphinxes and its remarkable statues, bringing the power of the pharaohs to life.

On the West Bank of Luxor, visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, a stunning structure carved into the cliffs at Deir Elbahari. This temple, dedicated to one of Egypt’s most powerful female pharaohs, tells the story of her reign and her divine birth through its exquisite reliefs. A short distance away lies the Valley of the Kings, the burial site of many of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs, including the tombs of Tutankhamun and Seti I. The tombs are decorated with vibrant murals and intricate hieroglyphs that depict the journey to the afterlife, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian beliefs. Don’t miss the Colossi of Memnon, two monumental statues that have guarded the entrance to the valley for centuries.

After your exploration in Luxor, take a short flight to Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, where history and modernity blend seamlessly.

In Cairo, your first stop is the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Great Pyramid of Khufu, the largest of the three pyramids, dominates the landscape, while the Pyramid of Khafre offers spectacular views from its summit. Explore the Pyramid of Menkaure and gain insight into the ancient Egyptian burial rituals. The Great Sphinx, with its mysterious and timeless expression, stands guard over the pyramids, adding to the mystique of this incredible site. Next, immerse yourself in the world’s most extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). This modern museum houses thousands of artifacts, including treasures from the tomb of King Tutankhamun, providing a fascinating look into the wealth, culture, and artistry of ancient Egypt.

The following day, dive deeper into Cairo’s rich history by visiting the Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world’s most impressive collections of ancient artifacts. Explore the Cairo Citadel, a historic fortress that offers sweeping views of the city. Within the citadel, discover the stunning Alabaster Mosque, an architectural masterpiece built by the Ottoman ruler Mohamed Ali. Next, visit the Coptic District of Cairo, where you can explore the Hanging Church, the Abu Serga Church, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. These ancient Christian landmarks offer a glimpse into the early Christian history of Egypt. Finally, wander through the bustling streets of the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a vibrant market known for its colorful stalls filled with traditional crafts, spices, perfumes, and jewelry. This is the perfect place to experience Cairo’s lively atmosphere and pick up unique souvenirs to remember your Egyptian adventure. The adventure concludes with a flight back to Spain.

This carefully curated trip provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the magic of Egypt, from its colossal temples and tombs to its rich cultural heritage and fascinating history. With every stop offering a new perspective on one of the world’s oldest civilizations, Egypt promises an unforgettable journey through time.

Visits

Nile Cruise: Abu Simbel Temples, Philae Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Edfu Temple, Karnak Temples, Luxor Temple, Hatchepsut Temple, Valley of the Kings, Colossi of Memnon.
Cairo: Giza Pyramids with entrance included to the second or third Pyramid, the Sphinx, Grand Egyptian Museum, Egyptian Museum, Cairo Citadel, Alabaster Mosque, Coptic District, Khan Elkhalili.

Flights

Departures from Madrid: Every Friday.

Itinerary

Included and excluded