Egypt Private Tour & Nile River Luxury Cruise
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Why You Should Go
The Great Pyramid of Giza was built approximately 2850 B.C., while Cleopatra reigned as Queen of Egypt (51-30 B.C.). Remarkably, The Great Pyramid was built over 2,700 years BEFORE Cleopatra’s rule, meaning Cleopatra lived closer to our current time versus the time of the Pyramids(!). This striking fact is illustrative of the incomparable depth and longevity of Egypt’s ancient civilization.
Notwithstanding the number of compelling ancients sites we have visited in China and Greece, we feel Egypt’s long, rich history of pharaohs and dynasties dating back from at least 3100 BC is unrivaled!
Based on our Lynch/Xu family trip to Egypt this last March/April 2023, we consider the four-night Nile River cruise aboard the Nile River Explorer or Sun Boat IV ideal for visiting various historic sites. These destinations include Kom Ombo, Temple of Horus, Temple of Khnum, Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, and Karnak (+ Abu Simbel extension from Aswan!).
A critical benefit in mitigating the stress of EGYPT touring is our policy of using private “Through-Guides” (Ms. Assma is among our favorites!). We provide a single, high-quality Egyptologist guide to accompany our clients throughout their Egypt private tour/Nile River cruise, including all internal Egypt flights. Having a private Egyptologist guide travel with you throughout the various stopovers adds a degree of continuity & professionalism to your Egypt private tour experience. What really makes our through-guides special, however, are the fun, long-lasting relationships they create with every traveler!
Though our Lynch/Xu families were grateful and much impressed with our sneak-preview private evening tour of GEM & Zooba dinner on Mar 20, 2023, still no official opening date as of April 2023. We are looking forward to our engaging GEM Egyptologist contact, Nouran, sending us the preview opening date in the near future…keeping our fingers crossed, Nouran!
Nefertari and Ramses II at The Great Temple of Ramses II, Abu Simbel
Sample Itinerary
11 Days
Each private luxury tour is custom to the wishes of each client. This itinerary is a sample. Partnering with our long-established relationship with United Airlines, our sister company, TRAVNET, may provide competitive Polaris/Business Class international airfare, along with mileage points conversion.
1
Day 1
Fly to Cairo
Through our sister company, premium air provider TRAVNET, we may assist with your international airfare, as well as with mileage points conversion.
Mosque of Sultan Hassan, Cairo
2
Day 2
Arrive Cairo
Upon arrival in Cairo, you will be privately transferred to Mariott Mena House followed by a “welcome dinner” at the hotel.
Meals: —
Accommodations: Mariott Mena House
View of the grounds of the Mariott Mena House
3
Day 3
Saqqara + Pyramids Private Tour
Following breakfast, you will be met by your private guide to begin your private tour of Saqqara, the necropolis of ancient Egypt. You will stopover at either the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities or The Grand Egyptian Museum.
Set to open in 2023, the GEM is Egypt’s new museum where many artifacts originally on display at the Egyptian Museum have been moved. Among these is the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including treasures from Tutankhamun and items dating to 4,000 BC. You may also see the remains of ancient Egypt’s pharaohs and nobility, including Ramses II, one of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs.
Following your tour, you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before being returned to your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodations: Mariott Mena House
Camels at The Step Pyramid, Sakkara
World's first hanging obelisk installed at the G.E.M.’s entrance
Larger view of the G.E.M. from our visit to Egypt!
4
Day 4
Fly Cairo to Aswan. Sun Boat or Adventurer from Aswan
Following breakfast, you will be met by your private guide for you will be privately transferred to the Sun Boat IV for boarding. The Sun Boat IV will begin sailing down the west bank of the Nile River to the Necropolis of Thebes, the burial site of the Great Pharaohs of the New Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beginning in the 16th-century B.C. and for a period of 500 years to follow, these tombs were built along the valley for pharaohs and nobles. Here, you will have the opportunity to step inside the tomb of Tutankhamun, “the boy king.” You may also visit the tomb of Seti I, the father of Ramses II, one of the best-preserved tombs in the Valley of the Kings. Later, you will stop at the beautiful Temple of Hatshepsut, dedicated to ancient Egypt’s first female pharaoh, regarded today as one of among its most successful.
After spending time on both vessels, Sun Boat IV and the Adventurer, we can safely say that we thoroughly enjoyed our experience aboard the vessel, including the duration of the cruise. We were impressed by the laundry service and the food, which we deem the best we had in Egypt!
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodations: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan
Aswan
5
Day 5
Fly Aswan/Abu Simbel
Following breakfast, you will disembark the Sun Boat IV and be privately transferred to the airport for your flight to Abu Simbel. Upon arrival, you will be met by your private guide for your tour of one of the most recognizable sites in all of Egypt, the twin temples of Ramses II and his wife, Queen Nefertari. The entrances were built in such a way that, every year, on October 22nd and February 22nd the sun perfectly lights the three seated statues inside the sanctuary. Historians believe that these dates mark both coronation and birth. Following your tour, you will be privately transferred back to Cairo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodations: Sun Boat IV
Temple of Hatshepsut
6-10
Day 6-10
Sun Boat IV or Adventurer 4-Night Cruise
Day 6
Following breakfast, meet your through-guide to be transferred by private vehicle to board the luxury Sanctuary Nile River Adventurer or the Sun Boat IV. We consider the 32-cabin Sanctuary Nile River Adventurer and the 40-cabin Sun Boat IV to offer the highest level of personal service, safety, and luxury accommodations.
Day 6: Aswan
After exploring the boat and settling into your rooms, you will have the chance to take a ride on a felucca (a typical Egyptian sailboat) around Elephantine Island, Lord Kitchener’s Botanical Gardens, and the Agha Khan Mausoleum.
Day 7: Aswan to Edfu
Following a buffet breakfast onboard, take a short motorboat ride to visit the High Dam and Philae Temple. Following lunch on the boat, you will sail to the Temple of Komombo.
Day 8: Edfu to Luxor
After breakfast, you will visit the Temple of Horos, followed by an Egyptian cooking lesson back on board of the vessel. The main attraction will be a visit to the Temple of Khnum, where you will be guided around the Greco-Roman temple by a seasoned Egyptologist. Your night sail to Luxor will begin with a lavish party where guests are encouraged to wear galabeyya, traditional Egyptian garments.
Day 9: Luxor
Your first stop of the day includes the expansive Valley of the Kings, which will take you on a tour of King Tut’s tomb, the Temple of Medinet Habuis, and Dier El Medina. In addition to Valley of the Kings stopover, visit the Valley of the Queens, which houses the tomb of Nefertari (!), and explore Luxor Temple. Following a full day of touring Ancient Egyptian sites, you will return to the luxury vessel for a gala dinner complete with Dervish and belly dancing performances.
Day 10: Luxor to Cairo
Fly Luxor/Cairo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodations: Sun Boat IV or Adventurer
Feluccas, traditional Egyptian sailboats on the Nile River
11
Day 11
Cairo Private Tour
Following breakfast, you will be met by your private guide for a day of Cairo exploration at your discretion. Optional stopovers include Coptic Cairo, the Mosque and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan, the Bab el-Foutouh, and Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, one of the city’s major souks (open-air marketplaces). Bargaining is expected here, so be prepared to negotiate.
Though above options are fascinating and picturesque, we strongly suggest visiting the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC). The first veritable museum of civilization in Egypt, the newly inaugurated NMEC is located on the archaeological site of El-Fustat in Old Cairo, overlooking the Ain el-Seera Lake. The museum showcases Egyptian civilization from prehistoric times to the present day, using a multidisciplinary approach that highlights the country’s comprehensive heritage.
Considered the crown jewel of the museum, the Royal Mummies’ Hall is specially designed to display the mummies of the ancient King and Queens of Egypt. The design aims to give the visitor the feeling of strolling down Valley of The Kings, where most of these mummies were originally resting. The hall includes 20 Royal Hatshepsut (Maatkare), Thutmose III (Menkheperre), Seqenenre Taa II, and our favorite (!), Ramesses II.
Meals: Breakfast
Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo
Double statue of Rahotep and Nofretnational at the Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NEMC)
12
Day 12
Fly Cairo/Home
Meals: Breakfast
Hotels
Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel
Located in the Garden City neighborhood, a quiet and upscale district in the heart of Cairo’s social and business scenes, the Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel is the best luxury 5-star property in the country’s capital. All rooms feature elegant, bright decor and design with a private terrace, perfect for enjoying the gorgeous view! In addition to a poolside grill, a café, two lounges, and a bar, the hotel also features three noteworthy restaurants, our favorite being Zitouni, their 24-hour restaurant serving authentic Egyptian fare. Enjoy!
Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel
Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel
Located in the Garden City neighborhood, a quiet and upscale district in the heart of Cairo’s social and business scenes, the Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel is the best luxury 5-star property in the country’s capital. All rooms feature elegant, bright decor and design with a private terrace, perfect for enjoying the gorgeous view! In addition to a poolside grill, a café, two lounges, and a bar, the hotel also features three noteworthy restaurants, our favorite being Zitouni, their 24-hour restaurant serving authentic Egyptian fare. Enjoy!
Sun Boat IV
Though we are not huge fans of cruises, we feel this is the best way to experience all that Egypt and the Nile River has to offer. As the longest river in the world (4,132 miles!) and considered to be the “source of life” by ancient Egyptians, a journey on an expedition vessel cannot be missed! With 36 cabins and four suites, we feel the Sun Boat IV is the only cruise on the Nile to visit the Temple of Hathor at Denderah on a four-night itinerary. The boat’s aesthetic was strongly influenced by art-deco design but still has several traditional Egyptian touches, never lacking for the comforts of modern amenities. On the sun deck, the teak-wood flooring used throughout is combined with Egyptian marble around the heated swimming pool, giving it an eclectic look, whereas the dining room, featuring hand-painted images depicting everyday life in Nubia, has deep leather chairs that perfectly compliment the overall art deco feel of the boat. Each spacious en-suite cabin room has air conditioning, a minibar, and LCD television with satellite, as well as views of the Nile!
Sun Boat IV
Sun Boat IV
Though we are not huge fans of cruises, we feel this is the best way to experience all that Egypt and the Nile River has to offer. As the longest river in the world (4,132 miles!) and considered to be the “source of life” by ancient Egyptians, a journey on an expedition vessel cannot be missed! With 36 cabins and four suites, we feel the Sun Boat IV is the only cruise on the Nile to visit the Temple of Hathor at Denderah on a four-night itinerary. The boat’s aesthetic was strongly influenced by art-deco design but still has several traditional Egyptian touches, never lacking for the comforts of modern amenities. On the sun deck, the teak-wood flooring used throughout is combined with Egyptian marble around the heated swimming pool, giving it an eclectic look, whereas the dining room, featuring hand-painted images depicting everyday life in Nubia, has deep leather chairs that perfectly compliment the overall art deco feel of the boat. Each spacious en-suite cabin room has air conditioning, a minibar, and LCD television with satellite, as well as views of the Nile!
Zein Nile Chateau
We highly recommend this luxury cruise down the Nile River. Accommodating up to 12 passengers in its 4 cabins and 2 suites, the chartered Zein Nile Chateau is a bespoke dahabiya (traditional sailing boat). With its extended open spaces, the Zein features a beautiful upper deck, an Arabian themed sun deck, and an opulently styled dining area. We particularly enjoy the tailored sightseeing opportunities for a truly unique experience.
Zein Nile Chateau
Zein Nile Chateau
We highly recommend this luxury cruise down the Nile River. Accommodating up to 12 passengers in its 4 cabins and 2 suites, the chartered Zein Nile Chateau is a bespoke dahabiya (traditional sailing boat). With its extended open spaces, the Zein features a beautiful upper deck, an Arabian themed sun deck, and an opulently styled dining area. We particularly enjoy the tailored sightseeing opportunities for a truly unique experience.
Four Seasons Luxor
Four Seasons Luxor is a welcome addition to the Four Seasons family. This hotel will transport you to the ancient city of Thebes as you overlook the Luxor Temple, which dates back to 1400 B.C. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the hotel boasts exclusive access to the manmade wonders of ancient Egypt.
The Four Seasons Luxor is set to make its debut in 2025 and will feature 200 rooms and suites, all with views of the nearby attractions like the Nile River, Luxor Temple, and Valley of the Queens.
Four Seasons Luxor
Four Seasons Luxor
Four Seasons Luxor is a welcome addition to the Four Seasons family. This hotel will transport you to the ancient city of Thebes as you overlook the Luxor Temple, which dates back to 1400 B.C. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the hotel boasts exclusive access to the manmade wonders of ancient Egypt.
The Four Seasons Luxor is set to make its debut in 2025 and will feature 200 rooms and suites, all with views of the nearby attractions like the Nile River, Luxor Temple, and Valley of the Queens.
Marriott Mena House
Located in Cairo, the 5-Star Marriott Mena House is an essential destination for Egypt travelers, doting 331 luxury rooms and suites, two expansive swimming pools (one heated!), and lavish surrounding gardens. Though we are normally not fond of hotels with more than 200 rooms, each suite’s astounding views of the nearby pyramids more than make up for it! Make sure to check out Mena House’s three onsite restaurants as well, which offer general, Egyptian, Indian, and Italian cuisines. When the Lynch family stayed here while travelling to Egypt in March, 2023, we were blown away by its beauty, views, and proximity to the Pyramids of Giza!
Mariott Mena House
Marriott Mena House
Located in Cairo, the 5-Star Marriott Mena House is an essential destination for Egypt travelers, doting 331 luxury rooms and suites, two expansive swimming pools (one heated!), and lavish surrounding gardens. Though we are normally not fond of hotels with more than 200 rooms, each suite’s astounding views of the nearby pyramids more than make up for it! Make sure to check out Mena House’s three onsite restaurants as well, which offer general, Egyptian, Indian, and Italian cuisines. When the Lynch family stayed here while travelling to Egypt in March, 2023, we were blown away by its beauty, views, and proximity to the Pyramids of Giza!
The St. Regis Cairo
Located in the administrative city center, we feel that The St. Regis Cairo provides the perfect Egyptian experience, mixing peace and serenity with life and energy! Along with The Four Seasons Hotel, we find The St. Regis to be of the top two highest-end luxury hotels in Egypt. Mixing traditional elegance with modern luxury, the St. Regis offers 268 rooms and suites, all which feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Cairo’s business and finance capital and the beautiful Nile River. The hotel features an Arts and Culture Center showcasing ancient and contemporary designs by local artists! We recommend strolling through the center to check out the painting of the Grand Opera House. Additionally, St. Regis offers a grand outdoor pool, luxury indoor pool & spa, fitness center, game room, sports arena, and three gastronomy options. The Al Khedewy serves Egyptian cuisine, La Sponda offers traditional Italian, and Montego provides beautiful views of the outdoor pool and lake with all-day dining.
Based on our Lynch/Xu family’s last trip to Cairo in March 2023, three out of six of our family members gave a “thumbs up” to the St. Regis and the other three gave a thumbs up to the Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel– so we call it a tie. We love both hotels!
The St. Regis Cairo
The St. Regis Cairo
Located in the administrative city center, we feel that The St. Regis Cairo provides the perfect Egyptian experience, mixing peace and serenity with life and energy! Along with The Four Seasons Hotel, we find The St. Regis to be of the top two highest-end luxury hotels in Egypt. Mixing traditional elegance with modern luxury, the St. Regis offers 268 rooms and suites, all which feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Cairo’s business and finance capital and the beautiful Nile River. The hotel features an Arts and Culture Center showcasing ancient and contemporary designs by local artists! We recommend strolling through the center to check out the painting of the Grand Opera House. Additionally, St. Regis offers a grand outdoor pool, luxury indoor pool & spa, fitness center, game room, sports arena, and three gastronomy options. The Al Khedewy serves Egyptian cuisine, La Sponda offers traditional Italian, and Montego provides beautiful views of the outdoor pool and lake with all-day dining.
Based on our Lynch/Xu family’s last trip to Cairo in March 2023, three out of six of our family members gave a “thumbs up” to the St. Regis and the other three gave a thumbs up to the Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel– so we call it a tie. We love both hotels!
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan
Agatha Christie’s famous “Death on the Nile” was inspired by (and penned inside of) the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract! Located on the Nile River in Aswan, right across from Elephantine Island, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract is known for occupying one of the most beautiful scenes in Egypt. Dating back to 1899, the British-colonial hotel enriches guests with historic significance through its sophisticated interior design reminiscent of the pharaonic period. In 2008, the hotel closed for three years for a complete restoration, reopening in 2011. The rebuilt Nile Wing now offers 62 rooms and 37 suites that all have an accompanying balcony facing the beautiful Nile River.
Sofitel offers luxurious accommodations such as 1902, its signature French Cuisine restaurant, and an indulgent spa, offering a variety of Egyptian-based treatments. As of 2014, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract is a member of Historic Hotels Worldwide.
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan
Agatha Christie’s famous “Death on the Nile” was inspired by (and penned inside of) the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract! Located on the Nile River in Aswan, right across from Elephantine Island, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract is known for occupying one of the most beautiful scenes in Egypt. Dating back to 1899, the British-colonial hotel enriches guests with historic significance through its sophisticated interior design reminiscent of the pharaonic period. In 2008, the hotel closed for three years for a complete restoration, reopening in 2011. The rebuilt Nile Wing now offers 62 rooms and 37 suites that all have an accompanying balcony facing the beautiful Nile River.
Sofitel offers luxurious accommodations such as 1902, its signature French Cuisine restaurant, and an indulgent spa, offering a variety of Egyptian-based treatments. As of 2014, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract is a member of Historic Hotels Worldwide.
Sanctuary Nile Adventurer
Since experiencing both the Sanctuary Sunboat IV and Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, we prefer the slightly smaller 32-cabin 218-ft Sanctuary Nile Adventurer. Having gone through a complete renovation back in 2018/2019, the vessel offers an understated casual style of sailing, despite its 5-star luxury vessel rating. Combining Pharaonic and Egyptian-aesthetics, all the air-conditioned rooms offer wonderful Nile River views with 24/7 service. Laundry services available.
We particularly enjoyed the Adventurer’s nice sun deck with its rich teak floors and its private cabanas around the pool. Though there is no spa on board, massage treatments are available. Two critical advantages of this vessel are its experienced, engaging Egyptologists and many delicious dining options. Enjoy!
Sanctuary Nile Adventurer
Sanctuary Nile Adventurer
Since experiencing both the Sanctuary Sunboat IV and Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, we prefer the slightly smaller 32-cabin 218-ft Sanctuary Nile Adventurer. Having gone through a complete renovation back in 2018/2019, the vessel offers an understated casual style of sailing, despite its 5-star luxury vessel rating. Combining Pharaonic and Egyptian-aesthetics, all the air-conditioned rooms offer wonderful Nile River views with 24/7 service. Laundry services available.
We particularly enjoyed the Adventurer’s nice sun deck with its rich teak floors and its private cabanas around the pool. Though there is no spa on board, massage treatments are available. Two critical advantages of this vessel are its experienced, engaging Egyptologists and many delicious dining options. Enjoy!
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1
Location
Overview
| Population |
|---|
| 97.55 Million |
| Language |
|---|
| Arabic |
| Currency |
|---|
| Egyptian Pound |
| Temperature |
|---|
| Highs: Low 50’s |
| Lows: High 80’s |
| Area |
|---|
| 390,121 SQ KM |
| 1.01 SQ MILES |
| Capital |
|---|
| Cairo |
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