Explore Egypt with Sahily

Welcome to Cairo, capital of Egypt! We’ll start this adventure with a welcome meeting scheduled for 4pm at our accommodation.

If you find yourself with some spare time before, consider taking a leisurely stroll to familiarize yourself with the neighborhood. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Christian Coptic sector, escaping the hustle and bustle while exploring its unique charm.

After our welcome meeting, join your newfound travel companions in exploring the enchanting Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, nestled in the heart of Cairo’s Islamic center. This traditional marketplace weaves a tapestry of narrow alleys adorned with local merchants, providing a perfect introduction to the rhythm of daily Egyptian life.

Important Information:

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting. If your inbound travel means that you might be late for this meeting, you will need to let your hosts know in advance.

This morning, journey to Giza, the home of iconic structures that have graced the landscape for 4500 years. Delve into the mysteries and stories surrounding these ancient wonders alongside your guide.

Enjoy a panoramic view of the three pyramids from a vantage point recommended by your guide, ensuring the iconic Sphinx is not missed.

Lunch leads you to a local restaurant for a taste of Koshary, a delicious and hearty Egyptian pasta dish. Next, venture to the Egyptian Museum, housing a remarkable collection of antiquities. Your guide will unveil the museum’s treasures before you.

In the evening, rendezvous with your leader and head to the nearby train station for an overnight sleeper train to Aswan (approximately 13 hours). Simple dinners and breakfasts are provided, but options are limited on the train. Consider grabbing your preferred snacks before boarding for added comfort.

Welcome to Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city, adorned with the serene Nile, Elephantine Island, and graceful white-sailed feluccas. Today is a leisure day to explore Aswan’s attractions such as the unfinished obelisk, the High Dam, and the vibrant Nubian Bazaar. Don’t miss the renowned Nubian Museum and the Temple of Isis on Philae Island, a masterpiece relocated to escape the Nile’s rising waters.

Along Aswan’s Corniche, indulge in a relaxing stop for mint tea while enjoying the scenic Nile stretch. In the evening, immerse yourself in modern Nubian culture with a visit to a local village. Join a Nubian family for a delightful dinner, gaining an authentic insight into their daily lives.

Your morning is free – consider taking a motor boat to the Tomb of the Nobles or stocking up on snacks for the Nile evening ahead.

Embark on your included felucca journey just before lunch, spending the afternoon on the river, observing Egyptian daily life along the banks.

Enjoy a night under the stars with hearty and delicious meals provided by your Nubian sailing crew. The traditional wooden felucca, with broad canvas sails, offers some shade and protection from the elements, although there’s no cabin or enclosed section. As the sun sets over the Nile, relish this unforgettable highlight of the trip, complemented by local Nubian entertainment from your crew.

Accommodation

Bid farewell to your Nubian hosts and hop on a private van for a 3.5-hour journey to Luxor, often referred to as the ‘open-air museum.’ Luxor boasts well-preserved reminders of the Pharaohs, from the stunning temple complex of Karnak to the renowned Valley of the Kings.

En route, choose between visiting the unique Temple of Kom Ombo with its mirror-image design or the beautifully preserved Temple of Edfu. This afternoon, explore the magnificent Karnak Temple, an impressive testament to ancient Pharaonic monumental works. Visit a local NGO dedicated to caring for wounded working animals in the region. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure—relax, shop in the bazaar open until late, or soak in the atmosphere of a local teahouse.

Accommodation

Embark on a private minivan exploration of ancient Thebes today. Begin with the Colossi of Memnon, two 17-meter-high statues representing Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Carved from granite blocks, these statues were part of an impressive colonnade.

Journey to the Valley of the Kings, a royal burial site housing over 60 richly decorated tombs of pharaohs. With your leader, explore this sprawling and spectacular place, where New Kingdom pharaohs were secretly interred. Learn about the history, legends, paintings, and hieroglyphics from your group leader. Enjoy lunch with a local family, savoring traditional home cooking.

The afternoon is yours to explore, with the Luxor Museum as a great option. In the evening, board an overnight sleeper train from Luxor to Cairo (approximately 10 hours).

• Breakfast