From the Nile to Constantinople
9 Days
from
Promotional pricing $3,199 per person*
Highlights:
Egypt
(Cairo, Luxor)
,
Turkey
(Istanbul)
Trip Start/End:
Cairo
/
Istanbul
Explore the Pyramids, Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum with its incredible Tutankhamun exhibit, and the bustling bazaars. Your private guide and air conditioned chauffeur-driven vehicle will take you around this city at your own pace, avoiding the bus tour crowds. Then fly to Luxor to explore the river's edge temples and monuments including; the Valley of Kings & Queens, Karnak temple and Luxor temple. Combining private tours with your own certified Egyptologist, experience the absolute best that Egypt has to offer.
Fly to Istanbul to explore this fascinating city. With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Istanbul is truly a crossroads of ideas and cultures. Having served as the capital of three universal empires at borders joining two continents, Istanbul mixes influences and traditions from East to West, from the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Start your tour with Byzantine architecture and visit St. Sophia Church, the pride and glory of the empire. Continue your tour with the famous Blue Mosque, recognized for its unique blue shaded tiles and design. After a live history lesson visit the impressive Byzantine Hippodrome and the famous Bazaar of over 4000 shops. One of the tour attractions is Topkapi Palace, the former residence of sultans. Drive through the Intercontinental Suspension Bridge and see the Asian side of Istanbul. During the group tour visit Beylerbeyi Palace, the white marble summer residence of Ottoman Sultans. After lunch enjoy a cruise by boat on Bosphorus, the strait that separates two continents.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Cairo
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Airport Assistance and Visa Service
- Dinner (not included)
| Le Meridien Pyramids (4*) Pyramids View (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Le Meridien Pyramids (4*) (Standard )
|
- Day 2
- Cairo
| - Private - Pyramids, Saqqara, Memphis Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch - Vehicle/Driver
- Sunrise/Sunset Desert Trekking (Horse/Camel) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Le Meridien Pyramids (4*) Pyramids View (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Le Meridien Pyramids (4*) (Standard )
|
- Day 3
- Cairo - Luxor
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Air - Cairo - Luxor [Luxor Round-trip] - Economy
- Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Private - 1/2 d East Bank - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Karnak Light Show - Vehicle/Driver
| Steigenberger Nile Palace (4*) Nile View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Luxor
| - Private - 1/2 d West Bank (Valley of Queens & Valley of Kings) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Private - King Tut's Tomb - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Private - Felucca Nile Sailing - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Steigenberger Nile Palace (4*) Nile View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Luxor - Cairo
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Air - Luxor - Luxor [Cairo (return flight)] - Economy
- Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Private - 1/2 d Egyptian Museum Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch - Vehicle/Driver
- Cairo by Night - Vehicle Driver
| Marriott (4*) Deluxe (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Cairo - Istanbul
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Air - Cairo - Istanbul [Direct (2hrs 15mins)] - Economy
- Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Shared - Belly Dancing Show (with Dinner) - Coach/Guide
| Yasmak Sultan (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Istanbul
| - Private - St. Sophia Church, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace & Grand Bazaar Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Yasmak Sultan (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Istanbul
| - Private - Private - Bosphorus Tour (with Cruise) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Dinner (not included)
| Yasmak Sultan (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Istanbul
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
The Mighty Sphinx
Le Meridien Pyramids
Day 1: Cairo
Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.
You will be met in the tunnel by an airport representative who will in turn facilitate the visa process ($15 per person - included in tour cost), escort you through customs and immigration, off to baggage claim and finally to passenger pick up. It is here that you will connect with our representative associate who will arrange airport transfer to your hotel.
Accommodation: Le Meridien Pyramids (4*) Le Meridien Pyramids resort is located twenty minutes from Cairo’s city centre, with a spectacular closeness to the Giza Pyramids, one of history’s greatest treasures and one of the Seven Wonders of the world. With 444 rooms, this hotel is the ideal combination of rich foliage blended with sultry sands and timelessness. From dining North American-style over Tex Mex dishes to closing off the night over traditional Arabic shisha, one can attain a true feel for Egypt while still retaining a level of comfort akin to home. Aside from Le Meridien offering resort-style facilities, from outdoor tennis courts kept lit at night to spa treatments, the distance to the city allows the curious traveler to discover the curving streets and bazaars that mark Cairo’s mysterious aura.
Ancient Egyptian Sphinx of Giza
Camel ride
Day 2: Cairo
Enjoy this tour which explores the relics of ages past, and includes visits to ancient Memphis, Saqqara and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Already millennia old by the birth of Christ, the elaborate statues and astonishing scale of these sites will amaze all who visit. This tour also features the famous Sphinx, whose constructor's still remains unknown, but its sheer beauty and allure has mystified the likes of Alexander the Great and Napoleon Bonaparte. This tour includes a private vehicle, a driver, and a highly trained Egyptologist, and entry to either Chephren (Khafre) or Menkaure (Mycerinus) pyramids, as well as the Solar boat. Entrance to the Pyramids come with an additional cost, and be aware that a limited number of people are allowed inside daily, so arrive early so you will not be disappointed.
Enjoy a buffet lunch at a great local restaurant.
Clients are picked up before sunrise ( or sunset) from hotel and transferred to the desert where they will meet their guide. The guide will lead you out into the desert on your choice of camel or horse, where you enjoy the sunset with a panoramic view of the Pyramids of Giza. This evening includes stopping for dinner at a Bedouin restaurant adjacent to the desert before returning to your hotel.
Accommodation: Le Meridien Pyramids (4*)
Luxor
Luxor Temple II
Steigenberger Nile Palace in Luxor
Day 3: Cairo - Luxor
Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.
Avail this round-trip flight from Cairo to Luxor, and return flight back to Cairo.
Airport transfer with a private vehicle and English-speaking driver in Luxor.
Enjoy a private tour with a qualified Egyptologist guide exploring the East Bank of Luxor. Visit the most impressive temples of Karnak and Luxor, while learning about ancient Egyptian history from your own personal guide. Start your day with a visit to the Temples of Karnak. Walk along the Avenue of Sphinx to enter the complex as your guide explains how the massive facade was constructed. Continue to Luxor Temple which was once joined to the Temples of Karnak by a two-kilometre long Avenue of Sphinx, a portion of which marks the entrance to the temple. Your private guide will offer interpretation and guide you through the most important parts of the temples.
Enjoy a dazzling sound and light show which is projected on the walls of Karnak temple.
Accommodation: Steigenberger Nile Palace (4*) On the shores of the Nile, at the core of Luxor’s ancient soul, sits the Steigenberger Nile Palace. The regal structure stands tall. It begs come hither for curious visitors to witness the glory of the Egyptian Kingdom. The hotel’s 304 rooms and suites are designed to fit the lifestyles of those demanding a combination of comfort, contemporary decor, and panache. Quench your visual and cultural thirsts, with the option of stunning river views or an eyeful of lively streets and the courtyard. Enact gastronomic fantasies with Lebanese cuisine and succulent grilled meats. Wander the city and become immersed in burial places, temples, and museums. Or, pamper yourself with the numerous facilities offered at the Steigenberger Nile Palace, including a spa and swimming pools.
Hatshepsut Temple
King Tut's Tomb
Day 4: Luxor
This morning you will meet up with your guide and explore some of the most incredible sites of the country. You will visit the Valley of the Kings where you will have the chance to explore three tombs. For a period of nearly 500 years from the 16th to 11th century BC, tombs were constructed for the kings and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom (the Eighteenth to the Twentieth Dynasties of Ancient Egypt). The valley stands on the west bank of the Nile, opposite modern Luxor. Then it's off to the nearby Valley of the Queens and also the recently renovated mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Hatshepsut was the second pharaoh of the eighteenth dynasty of Ancient Egypt. She is generally regarded by Egyptologists as one of the most successful pharaohs, reigning longer than any other woman of an indigenous Egyptian dynasty. The tour includes a visit to the huge Colossi of Memnon which are all that remain of the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III.
Done in conjunction with the West Bank private tour. Enter the famous tomb of King Tutankhamen.
Taking a Felucca down the Nile is something you must do when visiting Egypt! Feluccas are non-motorized sail boats that have been used on the Nile since the times of antiquity. Enjoy a short cruise onboard today.
Accommodation: Steigenberger Nile Palace (4*)
Egyptian Museum, home of King Tut
Khan Khalili Bazaar
Cairo Marriott Hotel
Day 5: Luxor - Cairo
Airport transfer with a private vehicle and English-speaking driver in Luxor.
Board your return flght from Luxor to Cairo.
Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.
Delve into the historical background of Egypt on a half day private tour with a trained Egyptologist guide through the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities and its Mummy Room, which houses a priceless treasure of archaeological finds. This location holds the tomb of the King Tut, Egypt's most famous teenage King!
Enjoy a buffet lunch at a great local restaurant.
During this evening tour, enjoy a delicious Egyptian dinner at Naguib Mafouz, located in the heart of the Khan Khalili bazaar in Cairo. Stroll down the newly opened Al Moaz Street and view the largest concentration of medieval architectural treasures from the Islamic world. Also included in this tour is entrance to Beit El Seheimy. Normally, this location would be closed to the public during the evening, but this exclusive tour allows for entrance inside. This tour includes a private vehicle, driver and english speaking guide.
Accommodation: Marriott (4*) The recently renovated Cairo Marriott Hotel, situated at the centre of the city, is surrounded by lush gardens and with a 19th century palace in its midst, on the Nile River. The grand hotel’s 1250 rooms are well appointed, with splendid views of the city and the Nile. One may take meals in any of the restaurants or cafes, which are reasonably priced and enjoyable, and feature especially hospitable staff. The city of Cairo is in itself a bustling source of amusement and history, including the Pyramids, though some guests prefer to stay on the hotel grounds and make use of the fitness centre or swimming pools.
Istanbul
Yasmak Sultan
Day 6: Cairo - Istanbul
Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.
Take your flight from Cairo to Istanbul. The flight duration is approximately 2 hrs and 15 mins.
Airport transfer with your private car and driver.
This remarkable group tour takes you to a famous night club for a dinner including 1/2 bottle of wine per person at a famous night club, accompanied by a traditional Turkish show -for the performance of folk dancers, belly-dancers, with Turkish music bands, and singers.
Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan (4*) Situated in the heart of downtown Istanbul, Yasmak Sultan (4*) neighbours celebrated museums, mosques, palaces shopping areas. Just a short walking distance from St.Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Grand Covered Bazaar, the centre of old city Istanbul awaits discovery. Hotel Yasmak Sultan brings a refreshing alternative to the typical Istanbul Hotel, pairing boutique style with elegant guest service. Friendly, multilingual staff looks forward to welcoming you to the Yasmak Sultan Hotel.
St. Sophia Church
Day 7: Istanbul
Enjoy a privately guided full day tour of Istanbul and see the most important sights. Visit the St. Sophia Church, the pride and glory of the Byzantine architecture (excluding the Gallery floor); the Blue Mosque, famous for its blue tiles; Byzantine Hippodrome, where once chariot races were held; and the Grand Bazaar, world’s largest covered bazaar with 4000 shops. Visit Topkapi Palace, the famous residence of the Sultans (The Harem section is not included in the tour).
Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan (4*)
Beylerbeyi Palace
Day 8: Istanbul
Enjoy a full day with your own private car and guide. Cross the Bosphorus by driving through the Intercontinental Suspension Bridge to go over the Asian side of Istanbul. A visit to Beylerbeyi Palace, the white marble summer residence of Ottoman Sultans used in the 19th century. Enjoy a cruise by public boat on Bosphorus, the unique winding strait separating two continents.
Accommodation: Yasmak Sultan (4*) Day 9: Istanbul
Airport transfer with your private car and driver.
Accommodation: Depart Depart from Istanbul airport - end of itinerary.
Accommodations
Le Meridien Pyramids
Deluxe Standard Room at Le Meridien Pyramids
Le Meridien Pyramids (4*) - Cairo
Le Meridien Pyramids resort is located twenty minutes from Cairo’s city centre, with a spectacular closeness to the Giza Pyramids, one of history’s greatest treasures and one of the Seven Wonders of the world. With 444 rooms, this hotel is the ideal combination of rich foliage blended with sultry sands and timelessness. From dining North American-style over Tex Mex dishes to closing off the night over traditional Arabic shisha, one can attain a true feel for Egypt while still retaining a level of comfort akin to home. Aside from Le Meridien offering resort-style facilities, from outdoor tennis courts kept lit at night to spa treatments, the distance to the city allows the curious traveler to discover the curving streets and bazaars that mark Cairo’s mysterious aura.
Steigenberger Nile Palace in Luxor
Bedroom
Steigenberger Nile Palace (4*) - Luxor
On the shores of the Nile, at the core of Luxor’s ancient soul, sits the Steigenberger Nile Palace. The regal structure stands tall. It begs come hither for curious visitors to witness the glory of the Egyptian Kingdom. The hotel’s 304 rooms and suites are designed to fit the lifestyles of those demanding a combination of comfort, contemporary decor, and panache. Quench your visual and cultural thirsts, with the option of stunning river views or an eyeful of lively streets and the courtyard. Enact gastronomic fantasies with Lebanese cuisine and succulent grilled meats. Wander the city and become immersed in burial places, temples, and museums. Or, pamper yourself with the numerous facilities offered at the Steigenberger Nile Palace, including a spa and swimming pools.
Cairo Marriott Hotel
Marriott (4*) - Cairo
The recently renovated Cairo Marriott Hotel, situated at the centre of the city, is surrounded by lush gardens and with a 19th century palace in its midst, on the Nile River. The grand hotel’s 1250 rooms are well appointed, with splendid views of the city and the Nile. One may take meals in any of the restaurants or cafes, which are reasonably priced and enjoyable, and feature especially hospitable staff. The city of Cairo is in itself a bustling source of amusement and history, including the Pyramids, though some guests prefer to stay on the hotel grounds and make use of the fitness centre or swimming pools.
Yasmak Sultan
Yasmak Sultan (4*) - Istanbul
Situated in the heart of downtown Istanbul, Yasmak Sultan (4*) neighbours celebrated museums, mosques, palaces shopping areas. Just a short walking distance from St.Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Grand Covered Bazaar, the centre of old city Istanbul awaits discovery. Hotel Yasmak Sultan brings a refreshing alternative to the typical Istanbul Hotel, pairing boutique style with elegant guest service. Friendly, multilingual staff looks forward to welcoming you to the Yasmak Sultan Hotel.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Egypt
VISA/PASSPORT
A passport and visa are required for both US and Canadian citizens. Tourists can obtain a renewable thirty-day tourist visa on arrival at an Egyptian airport for a $15 fee, payable in U.S. dollars. Visitors arriving overland and/or those who previously experienced difficulty with their visa status in Egypt should obtain a visa prior to arrival. Processing generally takes 5 working days and is approximately US$30.
Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Egypt for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Proof of yellow fever immunization is required if arriving from an infected area. Evidence of an AIDS test is required for everyone staying over thirty days, for the purpose of studying or working in Egypt. All passengers arriving in Egypt now undergo certain measures at the Cairo International Airport as a precaution due to the 2009-H1N1 virus. The passengers’ passports are examined and they are screened at immigration via infrared cameras. HEALTH Health insurance is required. Medical facilities are poor quality and not widespread. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/egypt.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Cairo (El Qahira).
Government: Republic.
Language: Arabic is the official language. English and French are widely spoken.
Religion: About 90% of the population follows Islam; the majority of the rest is Christian. All types of Christianity are represented, especially the Coptic Christian Church. There is also a small Jewish minority.
Time: GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from last Friday in April to last Thursday in September).
Electricity: Most areas 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Certain rural parts still use 110 to 380 volts AC.
Telephone: Country code +20.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming exist with many international mobile phone companies. Coverage is limited to Cairo, Alexandria and along the north coast line of the Red Sea from Suez to Sharm el-Sheikh and the major towns along the Nile.
Internet: There are Internet cafes in the main cities, including Cairo, Alexandria, Dahab and Luxor. Tourists can also access the Internet in hotels.
Travel tips of Turkey
VISA/PASSPORT
A passport and visa are required for both US and Canadian citizens. Currently, holders of all types of passports, if they are traveling as tourists, can purchase a 90-day sticker visa at the port of entry for approximately USD$20 cash. Visas san also be obtained prior to arrival for approximately $75. Processing generally takes 3 working days. Travelers arriving by cruise ship for a day trip to Turkey do not require a visa if they are not staying on shore overnight.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Turkey for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/turkey.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Ankara.
Government: Republic since 1923.
Language: Turkish. Kurdish is also spoken by a minority in the southeast. French, German and English are widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas.
Religion: Muslim, mostly Sunni, with a very small Christian minority. Turkey is a secular state which guarantees complete freedom of worship to non-Muslims.
Time: GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz.
Telephone: Country code +90.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is mostly good, but can be patchy in some rural areas in eastern Turkey.
Internet: Internet cafes exist in main urban areas. Some restaurants and hotels have Wi-Fi Internet access.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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