James Anderson
Oct. 6, 2024, 6:05 a.m.This 5-day Egypt itinerary was everything I hoped for and more. The pace was perfect, allowing us to fully enjoy the majesty of the historical sites. The trip to Alexandria was the cherry on top! Excellent and highly recommended tour.
1) Day 1- Arrival in Cairo
Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, an A1toureg representative will meet and assist you. You'll then be transferred to your hotel by a private air-conditioned vehicle. The evening is free for you to relax or explore the city, depending on your arrival time. If you arrive early, feel free to contact us for recommendations on a tour or additional activities.
For an unforgettable evening, you can book an optional Nile Dinner Cruise. Experience Cairo by night as you sail along the Nile. Enjoy a vibrant show with traditional Dervish dances, Egyptian music, and folklore. The cruise features an open buffet with a selection of Egyptian and Western dishes, giving you a taste of local culture and cuisine. This Nile dinner cruise is a perfect way to kickstart your Egyptian adventure with a mix of tradition, culture, and scenic views.
No meals included on arrival day.
Overnight stay at your hotel in Cairo.
2) Day 2- Giza and the Egyptian Museum
After breakfast, your private guide will meet you at your hotel in Cairo for an exciting day of exploration. Start with a visit to the iconic Pyramids of Giza-Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus-where you'll learn about the fascinating history of these ancient wonders. Next, proceed to the Great Sphinx, one of Egypt's most famous landmarks, and explore the nearby Valley Temple.
A delicious lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Giza, offering a chance to relax and enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to over 250,000 priceless artifacts spanning 5,000 years of history. Highlights include the famous Tutankhamun exhibit, showcasing treasures, gold, and jewelry that lay buried for more than 3,500 years until their discovery in 1922. For those interested in mummies, ask your guide to take you to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where you can visit the royal mummies hall (extra charge of $50 per person).
Though the New Grand Egyptian Museum is not officially open until the end of 2023, we offer limited tours to explore the Grand Hall, commercial area, and exterior gardens. The galleries and collections are currently closed to the public until the official opening.
To end your day, consider booking an optional Sound and Light Show at the Giza Pyramids ($40 per person). The show brings the pyramids' ancient history to life, with the Sphinx narrating the tales of the great pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Overnight: Hotel in Cairo
3) Day 3- Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo
After breakfast, your journey will begin with a transfer from Cairo to Alexandria for an exciting day of exploration. Your first stop will be the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, believed by archaeologists to date back to the 2nd century A.D. These ancient catacombs were used for over 200 years, offering a glimpse into the fusion of Egyptian and Greco-Roman cultures that shaped Alexandria during this period.
Next, visit the Pompey’s Pillar, an impressive 25-meter tall red granite column, historically linked to the possible burial site of the Roman general Pompey, though the pillar was likely erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian. This is the tallest ancient monument in Alexandria, providing stunning views of the surrounding area.
The Citadel of Sultan Qaitbay is your next stop. Built in the 15th century by the Mamluk Sultan Qaitbay, this fortress was designed to protect Alexandria from Crusader threats. The citadel was constructed using the remains of the Great Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the ancient wonders of the world, which was damaged in an earthquake in 1303.
Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant in Alexandria, where you can taste authentic flavors of Egyptian cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the modern-day Library of Alexandria. Reopened in 2002, this awe-inspiring structure pays tribute to its ancient predecessor, and it is now a hub for art, history, philosophy, and science. It offers a wealth of exhibitions and activities, making it a cultural and intellectual center for dialogue and open discussion.
After your tour, you will return to Cairo for an overnight stay at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Overnight: Hotel in Cairo
4) Day 4- Luxor Day Tour from Cairo
On Day 4 of your Egypt tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cairo and transferred to Cairo International Airport for an early flight to Luxor. The flight is approximately one hour long, and upon arrival in Luxor, you will be greeted by our representative who will guide you through a full day of exploration.
The day begins with a visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex in the world. The Karnak Temple covers 247 acres and is dedicated to the gods Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. It stands as a testament to the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture and is one of the most impressive historical sites in Egypt.
After exploring Karnak, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Egyptian restaurant in Luxor, where you can savor authentic Egyptian dishes.
In the afternoon, you will cross the Nile River to visit the West Bank of Luxor. Your first stop will be the Valley of the Kings, the burial site of many Pharaohs, including Ramses II and Tutankhamun. This historic site is home to incredibly well-preserved tombs, vibrant murals, and treasures that were placed in the tombs to accompany the Pharaohs in the afterlife. If you wish to visit the Tomb of Tutankhamun, it is available for an additional fee of 300 Egyptian Pounds.
Next, you will visit the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Amenhotep III. These statues, which stand 18 meters tall, are the only remains of the mortuary temple built by Amenhotep III and offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Egypt.
Your last stop for the day is the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a stunning funerary temple dedicated to Egypt's only female Pharaoh. The temple is beautifully set against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari and is one of the most iconic structures in Luxor.
After a full day of sightseeing, you will be transferred to Luxor Airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo, you will be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay, concluding an unforgettable day of ancient Egyptian exploration.
5) Day 5- Cairo City Tour and Departure
On Day 5 of your Egypt tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in Giza at 08:00 AM by your expert Egyptologist guide. Enjoy an exciting 8-hour Cairo city tour that covers the must-see landmarks of Old Cairo, along with the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a bustling hub of history and culture.
The tour begins with a visit to the Saladin Citadel, an iconic historic fortress perched on the Moqattam Hills. Built by Salah al-Din in 1183 AD as a defense against the Crusaders, the citadel now houses important mosques and museums. You'll be mesmerized by panoramic views of Cairo and its impressive skyline, making this a highlight of your Cairo sightseeing experience.
The Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, is next. Designed by Turkish architect Yousif Boushnaq, the mosque’s stunning alabaster structure stands in perfect contrast to the sandstone city. This Ottoman-style mosque is one of the most important landmarks in Cairo and offers a serene escape with breathtaking views of the city.
Afterward, enjoy a delicious local lunch in a traditional restaurant in Old Cairo, where you can sample authentic Egyptian dishes.
Next, head to Coptic Cairo to explore key religious sites. Visit the Hanging Church, one of the oldest Christian churches in Cairo, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, the Church of St. Barbara, and the Church of Abu Serga, each rich in religious and historical significance.
The last stop on your Cairo tour is the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest and most famous markets in the Middle East. Wander through a maze of vibrant alleys, brimming with traditional crafts, antiques, spices, and jewelry. This historical market has been the heart of Cairo’s trade for centuries, offering a unique cultural experience.
At the end of this enriching day, a representative will transfer you to Cairo Airport, assisting you with your departure formalities. This concludes your incredible Egypt tour package, leaving you with lasting memories of the ancient wonders and vibrant culture of Egypt.
Meals: Breakfast