Tour Details
DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Cairo & Giza
As you arrive in Cairo, you’ll discover a city that at once awes and invigorates. In your hotel, gazing upon the Great Pyramids, perhaps the world’s most recognizable structures, you’ll begin your Journey into an ancient world and people whose influence on your life today is both surprising and immeasurable. Our Egyptologist brings insights and perspective to our visits of these iconic sites – the Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, and the fascinating Solar Boat Museum.
From our luxurious setting in Giza, we also travel to the ancient city of Memphis, the oldest capital of Egypt, and Sakkara, the oldest ancient Egyptian cemetery. It is here that we’ll find the world’s first large- scale stone construction, the famous Step Pyramid. Immersed in this ancient world, we are escorted to our VIP seating for the Pyramids’ incredible Sound and Light Show.
Aswan
A short flight this morning takes us to Aswan, where we will explore the island Temple Philae, a sacred temple complex dedicated to the Goddess Isis. This ancient treasure was dismantled and painstakingly reassembled when the Aswan Dam was constructed in the 1970s.
Nile Cruise
We’ll fly to Abu Simbel this morning where we’ll enjoy a stunning visit to the 3,300-year-old temples carved out of a hillside by Ramses II. Still steeped in the wonders of this ancient civilization, we return to Aswan to encounter a wonder of our modern world – our beautiful cruise ship, Sonesta St. George I. This luxurious vessel will be our home on the Nile for the next three nights as we encounter a privileged view of the temples and art treasures of Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna, and the incredible sites of Luxor, built on the site of the even more ancient city of Thebes. Here we’ll find Egypt’s richest collection of antiquities.
Luxor
We disembark this morning to continue our exploration with a visit to the legendary Valley of Kings. Here we’ll find beautifully painted tombs of the world’s most magnificent burial ground. And here, too, is the tomb of the boy king Tutankhamen. We’ll also explore the misnamed Valley of Queens and the Temple of Madinat Habu, where the entire Temple of Ramses III still stands. A boat ride across the Nile takes us to our hotel, where we’ll prepare for a special sunset cruise on a traditional felucca.
Cairo
A short flight returns us to Cairo, where we’ll enjoy this city where ancient and modern Egyptian civilization creates a magnificent fusion of modern skyscrapers and ancient monuments standing side by side. We’ll browse through souks and bazaars, explore narrow alleys lined with old shops, or simply observe daily life in the city’s famous coffee shops.
We have arranged a special opening of the Egyptian Museum for Travcoa guests. Here you’ll find world-famous treasures you can hardly believe you’re seeing in person, especially the showcase Tutankhamen complete collection and the fabled Mummies Room. We’ll enjoy lunch as guests in a local home – and gather tonight to share the highlights of our Journey at a special Farewell Dinner.
Cairo & Home
We’ll say a reluctant farewell as you depart to the airport for your flight home or to your next destination.
Mena House, Cairo
This palatial hotel in the shadow of the Great Pyramids in Giza has enchanted guests since 1869. Located in forty acres of jasmine scented gardens, Mena House has played host to kings and emperors, Heads of State and celebrities. Its royal history is reflected in luxurious interiors that are embellished with exquisite antiques, handcrafted furniture and rich textiles. A variety of international as well as Egyptian cuisine is on offer at the excellent restaurants and bars in the hotel. All guest accommodation at Mena House is air conditioned with satellite television, broadband internet access, electronic safes and hair dryers. Rooms and Suites are lavishly appointed with traditionally inspired furnishings and rich carpets. The hotel offers 2 different luxury experiences in which its heritage has been preserved; in the Old Palace Wing are located 76 rooms and suites, while contemporary elegance has been lavishly designed into the Nile Wings 62 rooms and suites. A 2014 Travel+Leisure World's Best Hotel
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract, Aswan
Indulge in personalized service at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan. Located in the Nubian desert on the banks of the Nile, opposite Elephantine island, the hotel is majestically positioned on a shelf of pink granite overlooking the grand river. Behind its Victorian façade, the hotel retains its original beauty, receiving visitors in an historic lobby with polished marble floors and high, classic Islamic arches.
Sonesta St. George I, The Nile River
Arguably the best boat on the Nile, the Sonesta St. George I boasts five star deluxe facilities with the service to match. This elegantly refined cruise ship is perfect for discerning travelers. See many of Egypt's ancient wonders and take the opportunity to relax and unwind in sumptuous surroundings. Sail serenely between Aswan and Luxor on the majestic River Nile as 5,000 years of history unfold before you on a magnificent journey. Travcoa guests stay in Presidential Suites—each a 474 sq. ft. outside cabin on the C or D deck. Amenities include direct-dial international phone, 23 LCD screen TV with 16 channels, memory stick, and live sailing channel. Sound proof and fire resistant walls, wireless internet facilities, digital safe, mini bar, hair dryer, laptops in suites, double glass panoramic French windows, and coffee and tea tray in all cabins and suites. Tech wood bathrooms are fitted with a full spa unit which includes steam bath, jacuzzi, and water massage.
Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor, Luxor
Discover Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor a 5-star luxury hotel built in 1886 by British explorers perched on the Nile River amid luxuriant tropical gardens and ancient temples. This opulent Luxor hotel blends rich colonial design with the glory of Pharaonic times. In this 19th-century palace once a winter retreat for the Egyptian royal family Agatha Christie wrote her famed 1937 novel Death on the Nile.Illustrious dignitaries - from presidents and politicians to artists and celebrities - have stayed in this Luxor hotels sumptuous suites overlooking the Valley of the Kings.Archaeologist Howard Carter, discoverer of Tutankhamen's tomb, wandered the gardens of this sumptuous hotel in Luxor almost a century ago. Relax by the pool or venture out to explore Luxor Temple or peruse Luxors bustling market steps away.
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, Cairo
This beacon of sophisticated hospitality rises on the legendary Corniche along the bank of the river. With commanding views of both the Nile and the Citadel, Four Seasons unites its timeless, caring, personalized attention with the dynamism of fast-forward Cairo. It is steps from Garden City's historic mansions and a short taxi ride from Cairo's attractions. The Four Seasons features an unparalleled spa, lush pool oasis, and eight eclectic choices for dining or entertainment. The guest rooms and suites are generously sized and reflect the vibrancy of contemporary Cairo, with bright interiors, natural wood finishes and chic, comfortable furnishings. All guest quarters offer panoramic views, whether across the Nile to the island of Zamalek and beyond, or towards the 12th-century Citadel. Triple-glazed windows ensure that interiors remain cool and quiet. Up-to-the-minute technology for communication and entertainment includes high-speed Internet wired and wireless access throughout. The spacious marble bathrooms incorporate Four Seasons' signature features: deep soaking tub, separate glass-enclosed shower, and a large double vanity.