THE ROYAL EGYPT TOUR – THE ESSENCE

Following an orientation with representatives from Archaeological Paths, embark on a visit to the ancient necropolis of Saqqara. Dr. Hawass describes it as one of the most remarkable places on Earth, often referred to as the "birthplace of architecture." Marvel at the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in Egypt, constructed 4,700 years ago by the legendary architect Imhotep. Explore the intricately adorned Tomb of Mereruka and the Pyramid of Teti, featuring one of the oldest pyramid texts ever discovered. Conclude your Saqqara exploration with a visit to the Imhotep Museum.

After a satisfying lunch, proceed to the ruins of Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt. Here, behold the imposing 35-foot-tall statue of Ramses II, intricately carved from limestone. Subsequently, head to Dahshur, home to the Bent and Red Pyramids, commissioned for Pharaoh Snefru. These pyramids, among the oldest, largest, and best-preserved in Egypt, await your exploration.

In the morning, as the entire Giza Plateau remains off-limits to other tourists, guests of Archaeological Paths are granted exclusive access to this iconic ancient site. This crowd-free experience, typically reserved for royals, heads of state, and other esteemed guests, unfolds as a unique privilege.

To begin, you enjoy private entry to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the sole survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Accompanied by an Egyptology Expert throughout the entire visit, you are led through the Great Pyramid's interior, where its history, construction, and mythology come vividly to life. Going beyond the standard visit, the Director of the Giza Pyramids opens two additional chambers exclusively for you—the Queen's Chamber and the Subterranean Chamber—both typically closed to the public.

Following this extraordinary experience, you receive VIP access to the Great Sphinx Enclosure. While other tourists view the Sphinx from a distant observation terrace, you stand right in front of the world's largest sculpture.

In the morning, board a flight from Cairo to Luxor, renowned in ancient times as Thebes, a significant capital of ancient Egypt. Upon arrival, check into a luxurious 5-star cruise ship, marking the commencement of your 5-day Nile cruise. Embark on a journey to explore the most impressive monuments from the time of the pharaohs.

The first destination is Karnak, recognized as the largest temple complex globally. Stroll through the awe-inspiring avenue of sphinxes, marvel at the towering 97-foot-tall obelisk, and wander amidst the colossal pillars of the Great Hypostyle Hall.

Within the Karnak Temple Complex, guests of Archaeological Paths enjoy exclusive access to the Temple of Khonsu—an exceptionally well-preserved and complete New Kingdom temple usually off-limits to the general public.

Continue your exploration with the magnificent Luxor Temple. Constructed over centuries by New Kingdom pharaohs, including Tutankhamun and Ramses II, the temple stands as an enduring testament to the power and supremacy of the pharaohs.

Before dinner, indulge in a traditional belly dance performance. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Luxor Market—an authentic, open-air souk. Here, connect with locals at every turn and savor regional delicacies.

Following breakfast, embark on a brief motorboat ride across the Nile to reach the Valley of the Kings—a royal cemetery spanning over 500 years, with 62 pharaohs and nobles laid to rest. Within the valley, explore renowned tombs, including that of King Tutankhamun, famously discovered intact in 1922 by British archaeologist Howard Carter.

Later in the day, delve into the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, an iconic Luxor temple built in honor of one of Egypt's most successful female pharaohs. En route back to the cruise ship, pause to admire the Colossi of Memnon, two imposing stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.

The remainder of the afternoon offers leisure time. Whether enjoying the panoramic Nile views from the cruise ship's sundeck while sailing to Edfu or indulging in the ship's amenities, the choice is yours. Before dinner, savor an invitation to the captain's cocktail party—a delightful occasion to meet the crew and relish delicious local and international cocktails.

Commence your day with a visit to the splendid Temple of Edfu, recognized as one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. Erected between 237 and 57 BC, this temple is dedicated to the falcon god Horus.

As you sail along the Nile towards the next destination, relish a refreshing drink on the ship's scenic sundeck. Take in the sights of local wildlife, verdant fields, charming villages, palm trees, and the distant desert. Utilize the ship's amenities, such as the pool, spa, jacuzzi, or gym, for a relaxing experience. Amidst these options for leisure, engage in a captivating Q&A session with your Egyptology Expert, delving into questions about the history and daily life of both ancient and modern Egypt.

In the late afternoon, reach the Greco-Roman Temple of Kom Ombo, constructed between 205 and 180 BC as a dual place of worship for two gods: Horus and Sobek, the crocodile god. Conclude the day with a visit to the Crocodile Museum, housing a collection of mummified crocodiles and ancient carvings.

The evening's onboard dinner showcases exquisite Egyptian cuisine, followed by an Egyptian Night costume party featuring traditional galabeyas.

Embark on your first day in Aswan with a journey to the majestic Abu Simbel Temples—a testament to the grandeur of ancient Egypt. Carved into the mountainside in the 13th century BC for Ramses II and his wife Nefertari, these temples stand as one of the most impressive monuments of the era. En route back to the cruise ship, pause to witness the imposing 2-mile-long Aswan High Dam. Constructed over 8 years, starting in 1960 and costing $1 billion, the dam brought an end to the cycle of flood and drought in the Nile River region.

Following lunch, embark on a motorboat ride through the cataracts of the Nile to reach a Nubian village. Immerse yourself in the Nubian way of life as you meet the locals, visit their homes, and explore the local school. Returning to the cruise ship, indulge in a Nubian party featuring traditional music and folk dances.

As the evening unfolds, take a leisurely stroll through the Aswan Old Souk—an atmospheric open-air market. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local shisha and savor some traditional Egyptian tea.

Commence the day with a visit to the Unfinished Obelisk, the largest-known ancient obelisk, lying horizontally in a stone quarry. This colossal structure is nearly one-third larger than any ancient Egyptian obelisk ever erected, standing at approximately 140 feet tall and weighing nearly 1,200 tons.

Following this, embark on a motorboat ride to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Erected in 208 BC, this temple was meticulously reassembled on an island in a reservoir created by the Aswan Low Dam, safeguarding it from flooding that threatened its original location.

In the afternoon, you'll take a flight back to Cairo to continue your tour.

Conclude your tour with a visit to the eagerly awaited Grand Egyptian Museum*, housing the world's most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts that span 7,000 years of Egyptian history. The standout feature of the visit is the breathtaking Pharaoh Tutankhamun collection, presented in its entirety for the first time. Among the priceless collection of Egyptian antiquities, make sure not to overlook the Khufu Solar Boat, a symbolic vessel that transported Pharaoh Khufu from the living world to the afterlife.

Following breakfast, you will be transported to Cairo International Airport for your return flight home.