Compare Ancient Egypt And Modern Dubai by Indus Travels vs Premium Egypt by Intrepid Travel

Make your own way to the International Airport to check in for your flight to Dubai. Enjoy in-flight meals and services. 

Welcome to Cairo! Cairo, called Al-Qahirah in Arabic, with a population of 17 million, is not only Africa’s largest city but the political and cultural center of the Arab World. Cairo’s old quarters retain their ancient charm with many streets still known by descriptions given to them by medieval chroniclers. Modern Cairo’s architecture is distinguished by Ottoman and later European influences, especially in commercial architecture, particularly as the city’s population boomed during the 19th century. On arrival at Cairo International Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check in.

Overnight in Cairo

Today you will visit the Pyramids & Sphinx - reckoned by the Greeks to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World.  A single pyramid is built of 2,300,000 blocks, each weighing an average of two and one–half tons. In the face of such immensity, one cannot help but feel the wonder and awe that so many writers & artists have sought to convey over the centuries. The Cheops Pyramid is especially interesting since its interior burial chambers are open for inspection by the public. Not far from the Pyramids is the Great Sphinx of Giza, which dates from the time of Chephren (2620 BC). Hewn from natural yellowish limestone & standing 65 feet high & 187 feet long, this unforgettable statue combines the head of a Pharaoh with a lion’s body. Afterwards return to the hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure or perhaps book one of the following optional tours.

Overnight in Cairo

This morning we are transferred back to Cairo International Airport for a flight to Luxor. Upon arrival in Luxor, we will be escorted to our cruise ship for our embarkation. This will be our home for the next four nights. Lunch on board and in the afternoon, we will visit Luxor and Karnak Temples. Luxor Temple was the center of the most important festival, the festival of Opet. Built largely by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, the temple served as a setting for the rituals of the festival, which was held to reconcile the human aspect of the ruler with his divine office. The procession of images of the current royal family began at Karnak and ended at the Luxor temple. Karnak Temple was erected in 1928 BC as a small shrine dedicated to Amun, god of Thebes. The Temple of Karnak comprises three main temples, smaller enclosed temples, and several outer temples - all constructed over 1300 years. The three main temples of Mut, Monthu and Amun, are enclosed in enormous brick walls, with the temple of Amun at the center. Karnak is now the largest and oldest temple compound on earth.

Dinner and overnight on board in Luxor.

After breakfast, cross the newly constructed Luxor Bridge to visit the Valley of the Kings, which includes the tombs of the Theban rulers, Seti I and Tutankhamen. The Valley of the Kings in Upper Egypt is home to many pharaonic tombs of the New Kingdom, including those of King Tutankhamun and Ramses the Great. Each king's formal name and title is inscribed in his tomb, which are also adorned with his images and statues. Most of the tombs were cut into limestone following a similar pattern: three corridors, an antechamber, and a sunken sarcophagus chamber. Explore several amazing Royal Tombs. Then visit the Valley of the Queens which includes between 75 and 80 tombs. These tombs belong to queens of the 18th, 19th and 20th Dynasties. Among these is the famous tomb of Nefertiti, one of the five wives of Ramses II. Afterwards tour the mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, the only woman Pharaoh to rule ancient Egypt. The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut of the 18th dynasty was built just north of the Middle Kingdom temple of Mentuhotep Nebhepetre, amid the bay of cliffs known as Deir El-Bahri. In ancient times the temple was called Djeser-djeseru, meaning the sacred of sacreds. The female pharaoh chose to build her temple in a valley sacred to the Theban Goddess of the west, on a direct axis with Karnak Temple of Amun on the East Bank. After lunch on board we sail to Edfu via Esna. Ancient Nubia was known to the pharaohs as the “Land of Gold,” and its wealth and lands were eventually incorporated into Egypt around 1500 BC. This afternoon, join your shipmates for afternoon tea.

Dinner and overnight on board in Edfu

Enjoy breakfast on board before visiting the Temple of Edfu. This temple is not only the best-preserved ancient temple in Egypt, but also the second largest after Karnak. It was believed that the temple was built on the site of the great battle between Horus and Seth. Hence, the current temple was but the last in a long series of temples build on this location. We then sail to Kom Ombo and have lunch and afternoon tea on board the ship. This afternoon, disembark and enjoy a short walk to the Temples of Kom Ombo. This temple complex consists of two temples: The Temple of Sobek and the Temple of Haroeris. In ancient times, sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the riverbank near here. The Temple has scanted remains, due first to the changing Nile, then the Copts who once used it as a church, and finally by builders who used the stones for new buildings. As we sail toward Ancient Nubia, participate in an Egyptian Galabeya Party.

Overnight on board in Aswan

After breakfast, visit the Aswan High Dam (completed in 1971); the Old Dam (completed in 1902). You will also visit the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, a structure rescued from the rising waters of lake Nasser at the time of the High Dam's construction. The High Dam, just north of the border between Egypt and Sudan lies the Aswan High Dam, a huge rock fill dam which captures the world's longest river, the Nile, in the world's largest artificial reservoir, lake Nasser. The dam, known as “Sadd El-Aali” in Arabic, was completed in 1970 after 10 years of work. Later take a short trip on a motorboat to discover the Philae Temple. The boat ride will bring the visitor to a magnificent vista of the island, before landing at what would have been the ancient quay on the south side. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Isis and has many legends connected to it. The most well-known legend tells the story of how Isis found the heart of Osiris here after his murder by his brother Seth.

Dinner and overnight onboard in Aswan

Disembark the cruise after breakfast before being transferred to Aswan Airport for our flight back to Cairo where we will be met and escorted back to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure or perhaps take an optional tour.

Overnight in Cairo

Today you will be transferred back to Cairo International airport for your flight to Dubai. Upon arrival to Dubai you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight in Dubai

This morning enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of the cosmopolitan city of Dubai. Even with all its modern buildings Dubai has maintained its Islamic architecture through such monuments as the Jumeirah Mosque. You will have a chance to make various photo stops as the still of the moment guides you towards the oldest part of the city, Batakia. Batakia remains nestled within the bustling city where one can admire the serenity of the old wind-tower houses built by wealthy merchants at the beginning of the century. "Al Fahidi Fort' nearly 200 years old houses the Dubai museum and reveals the history of this city. Walk through the vibrant colors of the textile market to the 'abra' station. Then drift across the creek in 'water-taxis' to feel the warmth of the city. On the other side we proceed across the busy alleys where the aroma of the 'spice souk' filters through the air to the dazzling glitter of the famous Gold Souk to round off the tour. At approx. 3.30 PM you will meet your safari guide and head out on a dune drive at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. The mysterious desert beckons you for a magical evening out – an adventure you’ll never forget. Leaving behind the bustle of the city in the afternoon, our safari guides will transport you for a thrilling journey over rolling dunes deep into the heart of the desert. From the crest of a high dune, watch the sun cast its orange glow over the vast expanse of rippling sand all round you as it sets. Like a shimmering mirage in the distance you will see the flickering lights of your camp where a traditional Arabian welcome awaits you. The encampment conjures up images of the Arabian nights. Relax on comfortable low cushions in Bedouin tents and quench your thirst, have your hands painted with intricate henna designs, experience a short camel ride, or just enjoy the aromatic shisha. A feast of grilled meats, fresh salads and delectable Arab sweets is served and under a galaxy of stars, you will be entertained by the bewitching belly dancer swaying to the haunting strains of Arabian music. You won't want this enchanting evening to end.

Overnight in Dubai

Today after breakfast at the hotel, enjoy the day at leisure or perhaps take an optional tour. Late evening transfer to Dubai international airport.

Overnight onboard flight

Late evening transfer to Dubai international airport.

Day 1 Cairo

Welcome to Cairo! On arrival at the airport, take an included transfer to your hotel. You are free to arrive at any time today before an important welcome meeting, held at 6 pm. If you do arrive early, perhaps get out and explore the busy streets, finding a hole-in-the-wall eatery for a snack like ta’ameya – Egypt’s take on falafel. Or you may wish to make the most of your hotel – the pool area offers magnificent pyramid views. After your welcome meeting, where you will meet your local leader and fellow travellers, head out for an included dinner with the group. Here your leader will introduce you to the dazzling variety of Egyptian cuisine, known for being fresh, delicious and unique to the country. Best enjoyed when shared, tuck into an array of traditional dishes like fatta, a dish made with rice, bread and meat in a garlic and vinegar sauce, and kushari, a tantalising mixture of pasta, rice, lentils and fried onions.

Day 2 Cairo

This morning, tour the mighty Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx with your small group and expert leader, who is a trained Egyptologist. Seeing these ancient and iconic structures up close is a memory that will stay with you long after your time in Egypt is over. For an additional charge, you may be able to go inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu (or Cheops). After stopping to purchase some lunch, your adventure continues to the Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world's great collections of ancient artefacts. The masses of gleaming artefacts recovered from the tomb of Tutankhamun are an impressive sight – from jewellery to the famous golden death mask and his gilded sarcophagi, this pharaoh was certainly prepared for the afterlife. Your leader will take you through some of Egypt’s dynastic history, and you will have plenty of time to explore on your own – home to almost 100,000 artefacts, there’s a whole ancient world to uncover.

Day 3 Aswan

Catch a morning flight to Aswan – Egypt’s southernmost city. Its relaxed charm is due in no small part to its large Nubian population. Check in to your hotel then travel to Philae Island and visit the beautiful Temple of Isis – the goddess of health, marriage and wisdom – rescued from the rising waters of the Nile and relocated here. Your leader will share stories of the history and changing landscape of the island. Then, take a boat to a Nubian village on an island in the middle of the Nile. Walk through the village before sitting down to dinner with a local Nubian family in their home. Enjoy traditional Nubian food, swap stories with your friendly hosts and gain a unique perspective into their way of life.

Day 4 Aswan - Nile Cruise

After breakfast, you may like to take a stroll around Aswan or join an optional tour of Abu Simbel, a temple complex that was dismantled and moved to make way for the Aswan High Dam, before you board a Nile riverboat, your Feature Stay accommodation for the next three nights. Travelling by riverboat allows you to get to the heart of each destination while ensuring the journeys in between are every bit as interesting. In the afternoon, board a traditional felucca sailing boat where you can sit back and relax with some drinks as the sun sets over your beautiful surroundings. Return to your riverboat for dinner.

Day 5 Nile Cruise - Edfu

Enjoy a peaceful morning on board your riverboat, then set out in the afternoon along the river, relaxing in the sun on deck and taking in the desert hills forming a backdrop over the lush riverbanks. Arrive at Kom Ombo Temple, sitting spectacularly on the river’s edge. Your leader will let you in on the secrets of this ancient temple. Built in approximately 181 BC, Kom Ombo is dedicated to two gods – Horus (god of protection) and Sobek (god of fertility, linked to the Nile’s water). Each god has a dedicated section – north or south – and there have been recent discoveries of mummified crocodiles in the Sobek section. Afterwards, return to your riverboat and continue to Edfu where you will dock for the evening.

Day 6 Nile Cruise - Luxor

This morning, you will be moored near Edfu and may have the option to venture independently into town to see the nearby temple. Sail towards Luxor passing through the Esna Locks. You may have to queue to proceed through the locks, but this is a great opportunity to sit back with a drink in hand and observe life on the Nile – listen to the shouts of the many captains as they navigate their way through the various small boats of merchants selling their wares to a captive audience. Arrive at the open-air museum of Luxor – from the spectacular temple complex of Karnak to the Valley of the Kings, Luxor is full of wonderfully preserved reminders of the Pharaohs. Today you'll explore the Karnak Temple. One of the world's most celebrated temple complexes, Karnak is a house of the gods built over a period of some 200 years. Your guided tour of this vast temple of impressive pylons, obelisks and chapels will reveal its finest sections, such as the Avenue of Sphinxes and the Great Temple of Amun.

Day 7 Luxor

Disembark your riverboat and travel to the Valley of the Kings. Buried under the arid hills here are over 60 tombs of pharaohs, many richly decorated with reliefs and paintings. With your leader, explore this place, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BC) were secretly interred for all eternity, and where discoveries are still being made. Your leader will explain the history and legends of these remarkable people, and the significance of the many paintings and hieroglyphics, still well preserved in the deepest tombs. Entry is included to three tombs of your choosing, as well as access to the tomb of Tutankhamun. The unearthing of the young Pharaoh’s resting place is one of the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries, and today you will have the chance to explore the painted chamber and marvel at his famous golden sarcophagus. Continue to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut – a colonnaded building set against high cliffs that create a spectacular natural amphitheatre, then view the Colossi of Memnon – two 17-metre-high statues on Luxor's west bank.

Day 8 Cairo

Board a flight bound for Cairo this morning. On arrival, settle in to your hotel then head with your group to the Al-Azhar neighbourhood to visit Khan al-Khalili Bazaar – a sprawling maze of alleyways including the gold market, cloth market, 'perfume street' and the spice market. Continue to the 9th-century Al-Azhar Mosque – one of the oldest and largest in Egypt. Its perfectly proportioned courtyard and distinctive minaret make it a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Stop off in Cairo’s oldest coffeeshop for an Arabic coffee or mint tea as you watch the world go by. It’s a known fact that the very best food in Cairo is made inside local homes, but few visitors get the chance to experience this for themselves. This afternoon, you will be one of the lucky few as you are welcomed into the home of a local family for a meal. Sit down to a wonderful meal of traditional dishes which you’ll share with your friendly hosts and gain an inside look at modern Egyptian life.

Day 9 Cairo

Your trip will come to an end today after breakfast. Check-out time is usually around 12pm and you are free to leave at any time. If you have arranged a private airport transfer you will be advised of the pick-up time. If you would like to spend more time in Cairo, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).