Egypt: Ancient Wonders & Temples of the Nile

Welcome to Egypt — where ancient legends and everyday life meet in the most unforgettable ways. This week-long journey invites you to go beyond the postcard pyramids (though yes, you’ll see those too) and dive into the heart of this captivating country. Cruise down the Nile on a graceful dahabiya, swap stories over a home-cooked meal with a local family, and get wonderfully lost in the wonder of hieroglyphs, golden tombs, and bustling Cairo streets. From grand temples to quiet countryside scenes, every day offers a little magic and a lot of meaning.

Day 1: Cairo: Welcome to Egypt
Egypt, a land synonymous with ancient pyramids, awe-inspiring temples, and the legendary pharaohs, offers an experience far richer than its monumental history. While its historical sites are undeniably captivating, it's the vibrant, deep-rooted culture that truly transforms a visit into an unforgettable journey. From the bustling, vibrant energy of Cairo, a city that never sleeps, to the serene, picturesque charm of villages nestled along the life-giving Nile riverbanks, every corner of Egypt pulses with life and tradition.
Day 2: Giza: The Great Pyramid, Sphinx, & Community Farming
Consider the sheer, staggering scale of the undertaking required to construct these pyramids and contemplate the ancient ingenuity while you marvel at their impressive structures. Ponder the mysteries still held within their immense stone blocks – secrets of their construction, the lives of those who built them, and the pharaohs they eternally entombed – mysteries that continue to captivate and challenge archaeologists, historians, and scientists to this very day. While none of this was new to the locals, seeing them for the first time can take your breath away.
Day 3: Aswan: Your OMG day
There’s nothing quite like the freedom of choice while travelling. After flying from Cairo to Aswan you will choose to explore one of two incredible Egyptian temples. Aswan sits near the dam that formed Lake Nassar. The world united around the mission to save the Abu Simbel and Philae temples from being submerged forever in the rising waters of the lake. A global effort was put in place to dismantle and rebuild the temples at a site above the high water mark. That feat of humanity meant that these temples were saved for travellers to continue to enjoy today.
Day 4: Aswan to Kom Ombo: Sailing the Nile
Our journey north begins today along the Nile aboard a traditional dahabiya. Sail past farmlands and small islands that have forever been bathed by rich nutrients, creating fertile land in a narrow green ribbon along the river's banks, surrounded by desert on both sides. Our day ends as we dock near Gebal El Silseila, the perfect vantage point for a sunset on the Nile.
Day 5: Kom Ombo to Luxor: People along the Nile
The sails are up and your first full day of sailing on the Nile. Get ready to discover incredible sites and enjoy an experience only possible on your dahabiya.
Day 6: Luxor: Egypt's Great Temples & Local Hospitality
Embark on an early morning excursion to delve into the tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the temples of the West Bank. While tales of ancient curses persist, the genuine challenge lies in the limited time available to thoroughly explore each tomb. The amazement you feel is profound when your eyes first see the great temples of Egypt. You immediately understand why for centuries people have been coming here to explore and observe these incredible monuments.
Day 7: Luxor: Departure Day
Your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time today. You may be leaving Egypt behind, but the experiences you have will last forever.