PREMIUM TOUR: Embark on a five star Egyptian adventure. Stay in one of Cairo's smartest hotels, cruise the River Nile in style aboard a 5 star Nile cruiser and see Egypt’s best sites, guided by a professional Egyptologist guide for your entire stay.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Cairo
Friday. Welcome to Egypt! Upon arrival at Cairo Airport you will be met and transferred to your 5 star hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax by the hotel pool, or those arriving early, opt to join our unique Backstreets tour of Cairo which departs the hotel at 10am today. This optional tour takes you off the beaten track in Egypt's bustling capital, visiting Downtown Cairo, the exquisite mosques and monuments of El Moez Street in Islamic Cairo, Garbage City and the incredible Cave Church of St. Simon.
At 7pm this evening meet your guide and the rest of the group at a Welcome Meeting.
You may also extend your stay in Cairo with our pre or post tour accommodation or tour add-ons.
Overnight: Cairo
The Grand Egyptian Museum
This morning we enjoy a guided tour of the new Grand Egyptian Museum. A mind-boggling array of relics and antiquities from almost every period of ancient Egyptian history are housed inside this incredible 490,000 sq.m complex. Arguably the most famous exhibit is the solid gold funerary mask of King Tutankhamun. Weighing 11kg, the exquisite gold mask was found covering the head of the mummy, where it lay inside a series of 3 sarcophagi.
After our tour we head over to National Museum of Egyptian Civilization to visit the fascinating Royal Mummies' Hall, where the mummies of ancient Egyptian kings and queens are on display. Some of the mummies are so well preserved, they still have thick locks of hair, visible finger nails and smooth, if blackened skin! Spend the remains of the day at leisure, relaxing by the hotel pool.
Please Note: the Grand Egyptian Museum is scheduled to open in summer 2022, though an official opening date has yet to be released. If travelling prior to the opening of the new facility we'll visit the Egyptian Museum instead.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Pyramids of Giza
Cairo - Luxor. Today we visit Egypt's most loved sight - The Great Pyramids of Giza. We explore the Giza plateau, pyramids and massive Sphinx. We continue to explore Saqqara - an ancient necropolis with many half-buried tombs and the famous Zhoser’s Step Pyramid. Later, we travel to Luxor by overnight train. You are accommodated in comfortable twin sleeper cabins and a light dinner is served onboard.
If you don’t fancy travelling by overnight sleeper train, consider our Treasures of the Nile tour that replaces overnight trains with flights and comfortable 5 star hotels.
Overnight: Sleeper Train | Breakfast, Dinner
Valley of the Kings
Arriving into Luxor this morning, we visit the West Bank. The massive pair of statues known as the Colossi of Memnon are the first monuments we see during our morning visit to the West Bank - home to the legendary Valley of the Kings. We also see the colonnaded Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Return to Luxor for check-in onboard our Nile 5 star cruiser where lunch is at leisure and free time to relax until our early evening visit to the Temple of Luxor. Luxor Temple looks stunning at dusk and is beautifully illuminated at night.
Note: Dependent upon Nile Cruiser scheduling it may be required that we also undertake our excursion to Karnak Temple this afternoon. Should this occur, day 5 will be spent at leisure.
Overnight: Nile Cruising | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Luxor & Nile Cruising
Luxor - Nile cruising. This morning we tour the ancient city of Thebes (the East Bank) and take in the magnificent Temple of Karnak. More than a temple, Karnak is a gigantic and stunning complex of sanctuaries and pylons dedicated to the Theban gods. Anchors away this afternoon as we set sail downstream.
Overnight: Nile Cruising | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cruising & Kom Ombo
Nile cruising. Relax and soak in the views as we sail the Nile. Later today we visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique riverside temple. It is unusual in that everything architecturally is doubled and perfectly symmetrical along the main axis of the temple including twin halls, courts, colonnades, sanctuaries and entrances. Arrive in Aswan late evening - a prosperous town at the crossroads of the ancient caravan routes.
Overnight: Nile Cruising | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Beautiful Philae Temple
Nile cruiser - Aswan. Today, we enjoy a short boat trip to Agilika Island to explore Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. The temple dates from 4th century BC, but the Ptolemies and the Romans up to 3rd century AD built most of the existing structures. In danger of being completely submerged by the rising water of Lake Nasser, in 1972 UNESCO stepped in and an 8-year rescue effort was undertaken to relocate the entire temple 20m higher on nearby Agilika Island. We then make a stop at a perfume oil emporium. Perfumed oils in Egypt date back to 2700BC and were used by women, pharaohs and by temple priests.
After lunch, we visit the High Dam and take a traditional felucca sailing trip to Elephantine and Kitchener Island. As the sun sets, enjoy free time to shop in the colourful souqs and markets or simply relax and watch an amazing sunset in Egypt’s southernmost town straddling the River Nile.
Overnight: Nile Cruising | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional excursion to Abu Simbel
Aswan - Cairo. Consider our optional early morning excursion to the Temples of Ramses II at Abu Simbel. Possibly the most awe-inspiring temple of all ancient Egypt, with its gargantuan rock-cut facade is the magnificent Abu Simbel. Guarding the entrance to the temple are 4 colossal seated statues of the pharaoh himself, staring out across Lake Nasser. This excursion is not to be missed!
Alternatively you can spend the morning at leisure. If you choose not to embark upon this optional excursion, there is plenty to do in Aswan. You can explore Aswan with its beautiful shoreline and corniche or perhaps do a spot of shopping. Late this afternoon, we board the overnight train (twin berth sleeper cabins provided) for our journey back to Cairo. A light dinner is served on board.
Overnight: Sleeper Train | Breakfast, Dinner
Explore Cairo your way
This morning, have breakfast in your train cabin and upon arrival to Cairo we transfer to our hotel for check in. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy the hotel facilities or you can join our optional tour of Old Cairo, Coptic Cairo and the Citadel of Saladin (book/pay locally).
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Cairo
Sunday. Our amazing holiday comes to an end and we bid farewell to our guide and fellow travellers. Included airport departure transfer.
For information about visas, top travel tips and much more, take a look through our travel guide.
Breakfast
Sun Festival Tour
If you are planning on travelling with us in October consider our Jewel of the Nile Sun Festival tour, which includes arrangements similar to those of our Jewel of the Nile with the added highlight of witnessing the Sun Festival of King Ramses II at Abu Simbel.
Ramses II had his grand temple carefully angled and oriented in order that the sun's rays would align twice a year on the date of his ascension to the throne (21 February) and on his birthday (21 October) and illuminate the inner sanctum of the temple. This incredible natural phenomenon provides for a most spectacular sight as the sun illuminates the 3 statues of the living world, whilst the statute of Ptah - the god of darkness - remains in the shadows. The temple was re-located in a multi-million dollar operation in 1972, further up from the shoreline of Lake Nasser. In the temples new position the sun now strikes a day later than Ramses had originally planned.
Includes: Coach from Aswan to Abu Simbel early morning on the day of the festival. Guided visit to Abu Simbel, the sunrise event, entrance fees and visitor ticket for this excursion. Return coach journey to Aswan after the event.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
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Extra Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Steigenberger Cairo Pyramids Hotel, Cairo
Just footsteps away from the Great Pyramids of Giza is the Cairo Pyramids Hotel. Combining ancient history with world-class hospitality, the hotel is the perfect base for sightseeing. Guestrooms are spacious and comfortable, with friendly staff offering 24-hour room service. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to food, with four restaurants offering international and local specialities. Enjoy stunning views of the pyramids from the lush gardens and end your day with a refreshing dip in the pool.
InterContinental Semiramis, Cairo
Situated on the banks of the River Nile in the heart of the capital, the luxury InterContinental Semiramis is conveniently located next to the Egyptian Museum and the bustling bazaars of Old Cairo. The tastefully appointed guest rooms have been designed with comfort in mind, with all modern amenities and balconies offering Nile or city views. The hotel's large rooftop pool is perfect for a refreshing dip and with 12 restaurants offering cuisine from across the world there's certainly no shortage of dining options. At the end of the day, head to the Nile Terrace to watch a spectacular sunset over the Nile, with a cool drink in hand.
Sleeper Train, Cairo
When travelling on an overnight train in Egypt, sleeper carriages offer the highest level of comfort. Cabins are equipped with two beds (one above the other), a basin, electric points and air conditioning. Freshly laundered bedding is provided and in the early evening an attendant will come round and make up your bed for you. The carriages have toilets at each end and there is a club car which serves snacks and beverages. In the morning a very basic breakfast is provided.
Sheraton Cairo Hotel, Cairo
The recently renovated Sheraton Cairo Hotel, Towers and Casino is a stylish, contemporary hotel with fantastic views over the Nile. The rooms are particularly spacious with large bright windows, complimentary WiFi and all of the modern amenities required to ensure a comfortable stay. If you're feeling lucky head to the casino, or relax in the spa tub and soak up the sun by the large outdoor pool. The hotel has a choice of three restaurants and bars, where you can enjoy a tasty meal and refreshing drinks after taking in the ancient wonders of Egypt's capital city.
M/S Royal Lotus, Nile Cruising
Movenpick MS Royal Lotus is a 5-star deluxe Nile cruise that will enable you to discover the ruins of Ancient Egypt with style and comfort. This cruiser is appointed with elegant accommodations of 60 cabins and 2 magnificent Royal Suites. The Movenpick MS Royal Lotus also offers a range of public spaces from where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the banks of the Nile as you cruise by in relaxed settings. The cruiser features a range of leisure activities with a plunge pool and jacuzzi surrounded by a spacious sun deck, along with a spa and gymnasium with amazing views of the Nile. The restaurant offers both international and local cuisine in both buffet and a la Carte styles, with a selection of bars for enjoying a sunset cocktail whilst taking in the breathtaking views.
M/S Farah, Nile Cruising
MS Farah is an elegant, first-class experience combined with an old-world spirit of adventure and state-of-the-art comfort. The MS Farah ship offers 60 deluxe cabins and 2 Royal Suites that feature luxurious comfort with oversized windows that are virtually wall-sized and boast the most magnificent views of the passing banks of the Nile. Relax with onboard features, including fitness and spa services, pool and sun deck, gourmet dining, and a caring crew who help create the wonderful onboard experience. A variety of regional and international cuisine can be enjoyed at the lavish restaurant, with breakfast and lunch served in a buffet style and dinner a la carte, with one night a week offering an Egyptian buffet.
M/S Moon Dance, Nile Cruising
MS Moon Dance Nile Cruise is a floating hotel, designed for luxury 5 star cruising on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. It offers exquisite comfort for up to 132 passengers with its 60 cabins and 8 suites, which provide an ideal refuge for relaxation, along with a variety of enterainment and recreation on board. All rooms have a range a facilities you would expect from a luxury hotel, and enjoy panoramic view windows to take in the wonders of the Nile. On board the cruise, features include a luxurious lounge bar; plunge pool, sun deck with bar; beauty salon; spa and fitness equipment and gift shop. Breakfast and lunch are served as an open buffet, with a delicious variety of French, Italian and local specialties, whilst dinner is served on a la carte and buffet basis, with a fine list of international and local cuisine.
M/S Nile Premium, Nile Cruising
The modern and luxurious M/S Nile Premium cruise boat boasts stylish cabins equipped with all modern amenities and large panoramic windows. Facilities on board include a fitness centre, spacious deck with swimming pool, large restaurant and cocktail bar. Grab a good book and a refreshing beverage and relax on the Sund Deck - the perfect way to spend the day. The M/S Nile Premium sets sail on Mondays on a 4 and 7 night cruise from Luxor and on Fridays on a 3 and 7 night cruise from Aswan.
Fantastic trip - Well organised, took in all the sights I wanted to see, excellent service & great guide.”
I have done a variety of tours in my past travels but none shape up to this. Egypt blew my mind and I think we were incredibly lucky to have Helal as our tour guide. You can see how passionate he is about Egyptology and no matter how tired we may have been from a huge day of travel he always made sure we were looked after.
My only tiny suggestion is if theres another way to have large suitcases transported between locations for the nights spent on the sleeper train, with the rooms being so small you can only fit your luggage and that's about it. However I can appreciate most people would want to keep them close by. I would not have traded the experience on the train for anything though, it may be small but so much fun exploring the train and watching Egypt roll by the window.
I'm very thankful on the go got us up and going early to arrive at the temples early so we could see so much before the sun got too hot everyday and returning to the hotel or to the cruise in the afternoon for a few hours of relaxation was perfect.
Once again a big big thank you to Helal. We could overhear other tour guides and how quickly they would run over the topics at each site. Helal however took us to spots that others didn't and made sure we knew the reasons why. It made each temple so much more enjoyable.
The hotels were great, the Nile cruise was FANTASTIC, so comfortable and swimming in the pool while sailing down the nile at sunset won't be forgotten quickly.
A perfect holiday, a perfect group of new friends for life and two very happy customers. Thank you!”
The reception by On The Go on our arrival was particularly exceptional. They literal propelled us through Customs very efficiently and were there waiting for us.
However the train trip was an uncomfortable ride. It was too small especially with the luggage. I would not for any reason recommend the train to a colleague or family. ”
Our tour guide was Ahmed (Helal). This was a trip of a lifetime and we loved every minute of it, we were very much left wanting more and sad it was over.
Helal is an amazing tour guide and you can see he truly loves what he does. He made sure everyone was looked after and had an amazing time. Helal is a wealth of knowledge and experience.
We loved every part of this tour from the sites to the accommodation. We would highly recommend this tour to our friends and family. ”
Absolutely fabulous. I learnt so much especially due to Saleebs engaging storytelling full of facts. Dispelled so many myths about Egypt the middle east and ancient civilisations.
Professionally organised and top quality hotels and cruise boat. Egyptian overnight train was something else but l wouldn't have missed it for the world.
Thank you On the Go Tours”
Hotels were typically 4 star western accommodation and were good. Not too sure about the location of the Giza hotel as it was a little out on a limb although close to the Pyramids
The Nile cruiser was very good again 4 star western accommodation. The overnight sleeper train x 2 was grim and I would suggest flying as did the other group.
Excellent and very knowledgeable tour guide, he made the tour for me and others and is a big plus. Overall a fantastic experience with no security issues. I would recommend to friends and colleagues.”
What an amazing adventure. The organisation was superb from beginning to end.
We met pre passport control in Egypt, which seemed a bit over the top - however, it ensured a very speedy route through the airport.
The tour was expertly managed, our guide Medo (Ahmed Esmet) who was amazing. He was extremely knowledgeable, helpful, funny and became part of the family. His wealth of knowledge bowled us all over, how can any one person remember all those facts from the last 6000 years! By the end of the tour we had grasped the basics and didn't feel quite so stupid in respect of Egyptian history, culture and lifestyle.
There were so many highlights, seeing Tutankhamen's mask for the second time in my life (the first time in London in the 70's) and all the other objects found in the tomb; Luxor at night - similar feelings to those of seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise and Abu Simbel. Oh yes and the Nile cruiser too - could have stayed another week!
If you are in any doubt do it. Our safety never felt compromised at any time and in fact everyone was so friendly. The country is colourful and vibrant and alive! It's a once in a lifetime trip, one not too miss. ”
Wow... totally exceeded our expectations. When we arrived at the airport we were met by a representative from On The Go and that feeling of being welcomed was displayed the entire tour. Ahmed Esmat ( medo) our tour guide was absolutely amazing, his knowledge and passion are un measurable, everyday was a mind blowing experience. He was with us every step of the way not only as our tour guide but as part of the group. Every meal was enjoyed with great conversation and a family atmosphere of experiences. We made friends for life on the tour,we were so fortunate to travel with an amazing group. From Ahmed Salah’s fantastic organisation, Medos love and education of Egypt, the bus drivers,the train attendants the total team on the Nile cruise we will have this experience for a lifetime.
Would we go again? yes in a heartbeat. If you have the opportunity to go, just do it. ”
We had the most fabulous guide, he exceeded our expectations. We did not expect to have someone so highly qualified as our guide. The depth of knowledge that he was able to pass on to us was amazing.
The tour was tremendous, the trains overnight were an experience, although we survived I wouldn't rush to repeat an overnight train journey again.
We will highly recommend On The Go Tours in the future.”
We enjoyed the holiday and it did not disappoint in any respect. The hotels were very good and we used the ATM to obtain local currency as this seemed to be easier than changing Sterling. All the food was very good and we did not suffer any 'ill' effects!
The overnight sleeper train was very basic, the food OK the bed OK but the toilets on the car were pretty run down. (We did expect this but it was the weak link in the package).
The tour guide was very knowledgeable about the history aspects and accommodated as much of the requests of the party as he could. A bit more info on the modern Egypt would have been useful.”
In Brief
Tour Add-ons
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Fantastic trip - Well organised, took in all the sights I wanted to see, excellent service & great guide.”
