This short and sweet tour of ancient Egypt is perfect for families travelling with teenagers aged 12 years and over, taking in the legendary Pyramids of Giza, the iconic Sphinx, vast Valley of the Kings and fascinating Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
The Pyramids of Giza
Cairo - Luxor. Home to one of the world’s first great civilizations, Egypt is brimming with ancient wonders and today we will discover some of its most impressive. Our first stop will be at the Giza Plateau home to the legendary pyramids and iconic Sphinx. Marvel at these incredible architectural feats that even to this day puzzle archaeologists and consider opting for a camel ride to make the experience truly unforgettable. Leaving the pyramids behind us, we travel on to the necropolis of Saqqara, brimming with sand strewn temples, ancient tombs and the site of Zhoser’s step pyramid. Later this evening we will make our way to the train station for our overnight journey to Luxor by sleeper train.
Overnight: Sleeper Train | Breakfast
Luxor
Upon arrival in Luxor we transfer to the hotel for check-in. Considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, ancient Thebes – known today as Luxor, will be our base for the next two days. Today there is free time to kick back and relax and later in the evening there will be an optional excursion to the Temple of Luxor. Already impressive during day light, the temple takes on a magically glow after dark as it becomes illuminated by a thousand coloured lights (book and pay locally). Spend the rest of the evening at your own leisure.
Overnight: Luxor | Breakfast
Valley of the Kings
Luxor - Cairo. Today we explore the West Bank of the Nile, home to the famed Valley of the Kings, a vast and ancient necropolis which marks the burial place of pharaohs from the New Kingdom period. First stop will be at the Colossi of Memnon, a towering pair of statues that are all that remain of temple of Amenophis III. Touring will continue in the Valley of the Kings and on to the Valley of the Queens, the site of the imposing colonnaded temple of Queen Hatshepsut.
Crossing back over to East Bank we will return to our hotel for some free time before heading to Karnak. More than a temple, Karnak is a spectacular complex of sanctuaries, pylons and obelisks built on a grand scale. During the height of Theban power, Karnak was the most important place of worship. Later this evening we will return to Cairo by overnight sleeper train.
Overnight: Sleeper Train | Breakfast
Egyptian Museum
Upon our morning arrival in Cairo we transfer to the hotel for check-in. After some time to freshen up we head to the famous Egyptian Museum for a guided tour. Arguably one of the capital city’s main attractions, this fascinating museum contains the most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world, including the stunning gold funerary mark of King Tutankhamun. You can also opt to see the eerie Royal Mummy room, where nine mummified bodies of ancient royals can be seen on display. The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to do any last minute shopping or sightseeing.
Overnight: Cairo | Breakfast
Cairo
Sunday. Our tour comes to an end after breakfast and hotel check-out. A departure transfer will take you to the airport for your onward travel.
Breakfast
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.
Holiday Inn Cairo Maadi, Cairo
Overlooking the Nile and offering distant views of the Great Pyramids of Giza, this Holiday Inn provides the perfect location for your stay in Cairo. Each guestroom features a balcony (not Nile View as standard) and is well-equipped with modern amenities including free WiFi. Evenings can be spent enjoying international or Egyptian cuisine and unwinding with a cocktail at one of the hotel’s bars. Thanks to the friendly hotel staff, you’ll soon feel at home. And with panoramic views of the city from the rooftop lounge and pool, there’s no better place to base yourself for exploring Egypt’s ancient wonders.
Le Meridien Heliopolis, Cairo
Just a short drive from Cairo’s Old Town and international airport, the 5-star Le Meridien Heliopolis combines comfort with convenience. The guest rooms are spacious and equipped with air-conditioning, satellite television and a minibar, plus there’s complimentary WiFi throughout the property. Dining options include a choice of four on-site restaurants, serving Egyptian and international cuisine. Guests can also enjoy live entertainment and cocktails at The 51 Bar. During the warmer months hotel guests can take a dip in the outdoor pool or relax on a sun lounger on the terrace. There’s also a fitness centre and tennis courts for those who like to stay active whilst on holiday.
Mercure Cairo Le Sphinx, Cairo
In a great location for the Pyramids, the Mercure Cairo Le Sphinx is a contemporary hotel with excellent amenities. Guest rooms are well furnished with modern interiors and en suite facilities. Wi-fi is available in the lobby and there is a beautiful outdoor pool, which is perfect for relaxing by. Why not head to the restaurant on the roof for a delicious meal and impressive views of the Pyramids.
Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel, Cairo
This 5-star hotel is situated in New Cairo approx. 50 min from the down town/ Egyptian Museum area but only a 10 minute drive from Cairo International Airport and Heliopolis shopping area. The elegantly decorated air-conditioned rooms each offer views of the Mirage City or on-site swimming pool and are equipped with WiFi, minibar, and all other modern amenities. Work up a sweat in the fitness centre, take a dip in the heated outdoor pool or relax poolside with a cocktail in hand before heading to one of the two on-site restaurants which offer a mix of local and international cuisine. Alternatively, take advantage of the hotel's complimentary shuttle bus to Cairo Festival City Mall, which has an outdoor dining hub with a choice of 50 restaurants.
Sonesta St. George Hotel, Luxor
An elegant and luxurious classical hotel, the Sonesta's sophistication will ensure 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. All its rooms offer views of the city or the river, complemented by a wide range of restaurants and cafes. Just minutes away you will find the temples at Luxor and Karnak, home to two of ancient Egypt's most famed sanctuaries.
Steigenberger Nile Palace, Luxor
The Steigenburger Nile Palace is a grand hotel and stylishly furnished, with many rooms overlooking the Nile River. The hotel has a health club with massage rooms, sauna, steam room and fitness room, and a tennis court on the roof, not to mention a riverside pool. Its four restaurants offer a choice between Nubian, Lebanese, Italian, and Thai cuisine.
In Brief
Tour Add-ons
Enhance your trip with these amazing added extras and add-ons
