Girls striking an Egyptian pose in front of the Sphinx and pyramid on the Giza Plateau

Anzac & Ancient Egypt - 18 days

ANZAC Day Tours, Gallipoli 2013. Starts: 23 April. Pay your respects at Gallipoli then head to Egypt to explore Pyramids tombs and temples, and round it off with snorkelling or relaxation time on the sunny coast of Dahab

Day 1: Istanbul - towering minerets & modern skyscrapers

Tuesday 23rd April 2013. Welcome to Turkey and the start of your awesome ANZAC experience! Choice of shuttle transfers to hotel. Rest of the day free in Istanbul – a city that straddles both Europe and Asia! Overnight - Istanbul

Day 2: ANZAC Eve - Gallipoli

Istanbul - Gallipoli. This morning we drive to the WW1 battlefields on Gallipoli Peninsular. This afternoon, enjoy a guided tour (subject to ANZAC Cove opening hours and traffic conditions) of the evocative war memorials that dot the region, for example; Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair, Johnston’s Jolly, the trenches and Kabatepe - the modest ANZAC museum. Early this evening, we’ll relax at our exclusive ANZAC Eve Turkish BBQ before later taking our places amongst the many at the Dawn Service site for the atmosphere charged ANZAC Eve vigil. Overnight - Dawn Service site (ANZAC Cove) (B, L)

Anzac & Ancient Egypt - 18 days Go Guide : :Check out the go guide for details of the tour, info on visas, climate, money, what to bring and more!

Crowds at the ANZAC Dawn Service site in Gallipoli

Day 3: ANZAC Day - Gallipoli 2013

First light heralds a poignant bugle call and commencement of the Dawn Service. After the service and armed with your maps, you’ve a chance to independently explore many of the trenches and memorial sites as you head up to Lone Pine or Chunuk Bair for the Australian or New Zealand National services. Later this afternoon, we return to Istanbul, where upon our late evening arrival, we check into our hotel for a well-earned rest after such an emotion-filled day. (Timing on 25th April subject to coach traffic). Overnight - Istanbul

Day 4: Istanbul Old City Tour

This morning we spend a couple of hours cruising the Bosphorus before embarking on a guided sightseeing tour of the old city, taking in the stunning Iznik tiled Blue Mosque, Hippodrome area, Topkapi Palace, the 6th century Hagia Sofia (exterior only) and more. This afternoon time is given for you to explore the mammoth Grand Bazaar and exotic Egyptian Spice Market, the later located opposite from the ferry terminal. From here you can opt to stay and discover the old city by night or return with your guide to our hotel for a little R&R.

When the sun sets, why not enjoy our optional Istanbul by night bolt on! With dinner, belly dancers and entertainment at a great Istanbul venue. It's an entertaining evening and a great farewell fling! (transportation included). Overnight - Istanbul (B)

Day 5: Egpyt on the horizon

Saturday 27 April 2013. Today, make your own way to Cairo where your Egyptian adventure begins. Turkish Airlines offers open jaw flights between London, Istanbul and Cairo, check the THY website for more details or we can arrange flights on your behalf! If you provide us with your incoming flight details to Egypt we will be there to meet you at Cairo airport and transfer you to our hotel. Remainder of the day and evening at leisure Overnight - Cairo (B)

Day 6: Pyramids & Saqqara

Cairo - Aswan. Visit to the famous pyramids and lion-headed Sphinx at Giza Plateau. Sole survivors from the ancient Greek-listed Seven Wonders of the World, the pyramids are the planet’s oldest tourist attraction! Gaze in awe at Cheops (Khufu) - the largest of the three great pyramids. Constructed from over 2.5 million limestone blocks it is thought to have taken more than 20 years to construct. Continuing to Saqqara, we can explore the myriad tombs and temples at this site and see Zhoser’s step pyramid - constructed by Imhotep, the pharaoh’s chief architect in 27BC! We later enjoy a chance to freshen up then catch the overnight seater train to Aswan. Sleeper cabin upgrade available. Overnight - Train (B)

Day 7: Philae Temple

Arrive Aswan and check into our hotel. Today, we visit the High Dam and travel by boat to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Remainder of day and evening free. Overnight - Aswan (B)

Days 8 - 9: Felucca Cruise

Aswan - Nile felucca cruising. Optional early morning air excursion to famous Abu Simbel. This afternoon, we board our Nile felucca for a 2 night cruise upstream toward Kom Ombo. Relax, top up your tan and chat with new friends as the felucca gently plies its route. Stops are made en route at local villages and at the waterside Temple of Kom Ombo. If sailing by felucca is not your style, consider upgrading to a 5 star luxury Nile Cruise with our Nile Cruise Upgrade. Overnight - Felucca Cruise (B:2, L:2, D:2)

Day 10: Kom Ombo Temple & Edfu

Kom Ombo - Edfu - Luxor. Disembarking near Kom Ombo we visit the temple before travelling to the Temple of Horus at Edfu, a huge complex that began construction in 237 BC! We then continue to Luxor. Home of the legendary Valley of the Kings and Temple of Karnak, 4000 year-old Luxor is ancient Egypt at it’s best. Enjoy some rest and relaxation. Tonight, an optional visit to the Temple of Luxor is available alternatively, enjoy the facilities of our hotel. Overnight - Luxor (B)

Statues at the Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor

Day 11: Valley of the Kings

Luxor - Cairo. Why not watch the sunrise from the heady heights of a hot air balloon - take the optional hot air balloon ride over Luxor and see it come alive in the morning sun. Early today, we visit Luxor’s famous West Bank. The twin seated statues known as the Colossi of Memnon represent the first view of what is to come. We then visit the legendary Valleys of the Kings and the imposing ramped and limestone - colonnaded Temple of Hatshepsut. Hatshepsut was one of only 3 Egyptian ruling queens. Perhaps the most famous tomb in the Valley of the Kings is that of the boy-King Tutankhamen. Archaeologist Howard Carter discovered his intact and treasure -filled tomb in 1922. Taking a break, we later visit the colossal Temple of Karnak.

There's time for R&R by the hotel swimming pool this afternoon, before returning to Cairo by overnight seater train. sleeper cabin upgrade available. Overnight - Bus (B)

Day 12: The Egyptian Museum

Arriving into Cairo, we set off on a guided tour of the Egyptian National Museum of Antiquities. The museum is home to an extensive collection of some 120 000 ancient Egyptian antiquities, with a representative amount on display and the remainder in storerooms. You can choose to visit the Royal Mummy Room, where 9 royal mummies from the New Kingdom is displayed. The afternoon and evening offer free time or there is the option to take part in a city tour. Overnight - Cairo (B)

Divers in the Red Sea with tropical fish

Day 13: Dahab

Cairo - Dahab. Today we cross the Suez Canal and travel onto Dahab, located on the Red Sea. Dahab has developed from a hippy village to a respected haven with a solid infrastructure for SCUBA divers, snorkellers and travellers seeking sun, sea and relaxation. The waterfront is dotted with laid back cafes, bars and shops, perfect for eating, drinking or relaxing with a little retail therapy. You’ve 4 whole days to do as you please. Overnight - Dahab (B)

Days 14 - 16: Dahab & beyond

Enjoy time at leisure in Dahab. Optional activities (book and pay locally) include a snorkelling excursion to the Blue Hole. 80 metres deep, the Blue Hole boasts an abundance of colourful coral, fish and marine life. Most of the aquatic species live within the first 5 metres beneath the sea level, allowing even the novice a fantastic display of the underwater world.

You can also opt for an energetic climb to the summit of Mt Sinai and visit St Katherine's Monastery or camel and jeep treks into the surrounding Sinai Desert.

If you would like to extend your stay in Dahab, consider our exciting range of 4 day dive bolt-ons or hop over to Jordan for a 5 day middle eastern treat on our Petra & Wadi Rum bolt-on. Overnight - Dahab (B:3)

Day 17: Cairo - free time

Dahab - Cairo. After a leisurely breakfast we return to Cairo. The remainder of the day and evening offer free to enjoy Cairo your way. You can enjoy the remains of the day shopping and exploring Cairo. Perhaps take a cab to Cairo’s Khan al-Khalili bazaar and enjoy a few hours wandering through the many alleyways. It’s a top spot for the purchase of ornate free-standing tobacco pipes, pharaonic tat, belly dancing costumes, spices and carpets. Overnight - Cairo (B)

Day 18: Cairo

Friday 10 May 2013. Hotel check out and included onward transfer to airport. (B)

Botl-on Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel, possibly the most awe-inspiring temple of all ancient Egypt, with its gigantic rock–cut façade, was created to revere the mighty ruler Ramses II. Guarding the entrance to the temple, the 4 colossal statues of Ramses II sit majestically staring out across the desert, seemingly since time began. We offer an amazing excursion to visit the Temples of Abu Simbel on the morning of day 8. Click here for further information.

FROM USD $1,879

Prices & Departure Dates

Prices shown are per person travelling. 'Twin/Double' prices per person apply when there are 2 people travelling, sharing a room. Due to capacity restraints we do not offer single rooms on the Turkey component of this ANZAC tour. We will match up all single travelers with another fellow passenger of the same sex. We can also do this in Egypt, should you choose. Alternatively it is possible to book a single room for the Egypt component of your holiday and the single supplement detailed below can be added to the 'Twin/Double' price, allowing for the comfort of single room from days 5 - 18.

If booking pre or post tour accommodation in either Istanbul or Cairo, single travellers will need to pay the single supplement for nights booked.

Please note that the connecting flight between Istanbul-Cairo or v v. is not included in the cost of the tour and will need to be arranged independently, or contact us and we will be happy to arrange it for you.

2013

Date	Price/Person	Single Supp.
23 APR - 10 MAY	USD $1,879	USD $369
2014

Date	Price/Person	Single Supp.
23 APR - 10 MAY	USD $1,879	USD $369

Anzac & Ancient Egypt - 18 days Go Guide : :Check out the go guide for details of the tour, info on visas, climate, money, what to bring and more!

Bolt-ons

Make the most of your time away! Listed below are the optional activities that are available on this trip. Please note that you will need to book these prior to travel as we cannot always guarantee availability of these activities once you are on holiday.

Anzac Bolt-ons - Istanbul by Night

USD $99

Istanbul's skyline at night, with the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia

When you've explored Istanbul by day, its time experience the city at night! As well as being a great way to get to know your fellow travellers, this evening out at a traditional Turkish venue includes a tasty 3 course meal and live entertainment including belly dancers. A top night out!

Experiences

If you are interesting in trips with similar experiences to this one, then check out some of the ones we've listed below.

The Great Outdoors

The crystal clear waters and white sands of a Sri Lankan beach

By the Sea

Nothing beats a little rest and relaxation by the sea - wind down from an action packed tour with a few days lazing on golden sands or spend your entire holiday soaking up the sun. From the coral rich Red Sea and the azure Aegean and Mediterranean to the crystal clear waters of the Indian ocean, choose from a wide range of idyllic destinations.

Feluccas

One of the highlights of our Egypt group tours, is felucca sailing on the mighty River Nile. Feluccas are simple, traditional sailboats, with broad sails, that have plied the mighty Nile since ancient times. Sail during the day, taking in the colourful sights of the Nile village life en-route, soak up the sun, relax, jump in for a swim and let the peaceful routine of life aboard allow, you to escape the stress of everyday life! At night sleep ondeck under a blanket of stars! What better way to experience the great outdoors!

Wonders of the World

Pyramids of Giza

Sole survivors from the ancient Greek-listed Seven Wonders of the World, the amazing pyramids at Giza are the planet’s oldest tourist attraction! Known as Cheops, Chephren and Mycerinus, the pyramids were already more than 2,000 years old when Herodotus the Greek historian visited them (5th century BC).

Highlights & Inclusions

Below is a list of key highlights and what is included on this tour. Further, where appropriate, we have listed the items that are not included in the tour price.

Trip Highlights

Istanbul - old city, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Underground Cistern
Gallipoli Peninsular - ANZAC Cove, Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair memorials, National Services of Australia or New Zealand
ANZAC Dawn Service
Aswan - High Dam and Philae Temple
Kom Ombo - Temple of Kom Ombo
Luxor - Temple of Karnak
Dahab - Red Sea coast - swim, relax, opt to snorkel or scuba dive in the clear coastal waters

Cruise along the Bosphorus Strait
Battlefields and trenches
Cairo - Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza Plateau, Necropolis of Saqqara, Egyptian Museum
Nile felucca cruising - islands en route
Edfu - Temple of Horus
Valley of the Kings and Queens, Colossi of Memnon and Temple of Queen Hatshepsut

What's Included

13 breakfasts, 3 lunches including our ANZAC Eve Turkish BBQ and 2 dinners
1 overnight bus - Luxor - Dahab
Airport arrival transfer to Cairo on day 5 and departure transfer to Cairo airport on day 15.
Afternoon Bosphorus cruise – Istanbul
Modern air-conditioned touring coach
Touring of Cairo, Giza, Saqqara, Aswan, Edfu and Luxor
3 days Dahab - Red Sea stay - swim, sun and sand

Turkey: 3 nights 4 star & Special Class hotels, 1 night ANZAC Cove. Egypt: 7 nights 4 - 5 star hotels, 2 nights aboard felucca (open deck) and 1 night seater train: Cairo - Aswan. Sleeper cabin upgrade possible!
Airport arrival transfer on day 1 from Ataturk International Airport at any time of day or from Sabiha Gokcen Airport at 2.30pm and 8pm.
Guided sightseeing of the Blue Mosque, Underground Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Hippodrome, Hagia Sofia (exterior only) and Gallipoli
Escorted by an English speaking, degree qualified Turkish tour guide in Turkey and degree qualified Egyptologist in Egypt
Commemorative ANZAC hoodie/ jumper
All relevant transfer and transportation in private modern air-conditioned vehicles

What's Not Included

International flights, visas and flight from Istanbul to Cairo
Entrance Fees: $90-110 USD

Tip for your tour guides in Turkey and Egypt. We recommend you allow $3 - 5 USD per day, per traveller. Tip for your driver in Turkey and Felucca Crew/ Nile Cruise staff in Egypt, we recommend you allow $10 USD for each. Tipping of these persons mentioned above is an entirely personal gesture
Tipping Kitty: $50-70 USD

Hotels

Ibis Hotel Istanbul - Istanbul

Guest rooms are inviting, modern & cosy. Large comfy beds are a treat as is the modern well fitted bathroom. Enjoy a top all you can eat buffet every morning.

Our Rating : Superior — Local Rating: 4 Star Hotel

Oasis Hotel - Cairo

The Oasis Hotel is surrounded by a palm forest and tropical gardens and boasts a swimming pool and an array of recreational facilities. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, with views over the gardens.

Our Rating : Superior — Local Rating: 4 Star Hotel

Pyramisa Isis Corniche - Aswan

The Isis Corniche has panoramic views of the Nile. There is a range of rooms, which have views over the garden or Nile. The hotel has a wellness centre, with sauna, jacuzzi and steam bath.

Our Rating : Standard — Local Rating: 3 Star Hotel

Felucca Cruise - Felucca Cruise

Feluccas are simple, traditional Egyptian sailboats, that have plied the mighty Nile since ancient times. Feluccas carry between 8 - 12 passengers comfortably. The boat’s deck is draped with soft colourful cushions that serve as your lounging and meal area during the day and as your sleeping area at night. You'll need to bring a sleeping bag/sleeping sheet and also a towel with you. The crew, as well as being experienced sailors, are responsible for the preparation of the included meals, though they welcome would-be helpers! Water, soft drinks and beer can be purchased aboard at a very reasonable cost.

Our Rating : Simple — Local Rating:

Sonesta Hotel - Luxor

A grand and classical hotel, the Sonesta is luxurious, ensuring you a comfortable stay. The hotel has a sweeping terrace with fantastic views of the Nile, a grand entrance of polished marble and handsomely appointed furnishings with exquisite detail and a beautiful health spa.

Our Rating : Deluxe — Local Rating: 5 Star Deluxe Hotel

Pyramids Park Resort - Cairo

Pyramids Park Resort Cairo is in an enviable location near the Giza Pyramids! Surrounded by 25 acres of lush gardens it is an Oasis in the desert offering good facilities and cosy rooms.

Our Rating : Superior — Local Rating: 5 Star Hotel

Mercure Bay View - Dahab

The Mercure Bay View stretches over an a sandy beach with the colourful mountains of Sinai in the backdrop. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated.

Our Rating : Superior — Local Rating: 5 Star Hotel

Postcards

Here's what some of our past travellers have written in to us and said about their experiences on this trip.

Dear on the go,

I have been meaning to write for ages but time has got away from me. I would like to thank everybody involved in my brilliant tour of Turkey and Egypt. I took part in the Anzac and Ancient Egypt tour in April and had the time of my life. Anzac was incredible and something I have wanted to do my whole life and Egypt was amazing especially finishing the whole tour off in Dahab. This made for a relaxing finale. Thank you again and keep up the good work, Lachie.

Lachlan Turner, Jul 2010

I had a great time on the tour. So worth flying over from Australia to experience Anzac Day and of course see the pytamids! I had a wonderful time. Thank you.

Taryn Schultz, May 2010

What a great tour! Great idea to combine the Anzac experience with Egypt! I will treasure some great memories from this trip.

Stephanie B, May 2010

Anzac day was amazing. It is hard work but a pilgrimage all Aussies have to do at some point in their lives. My tour was great and now I am off to Egypt which I can't wait for. Keep up the good work and thanks to everyone both in London and Turkey. Cheers.

Julia G, May 2010