Sonesta Nile Dahabeya & Pyramids (ex-Sat)
12 Days
from
$5,292
to
$7,068
per person*
Highlights:
Egypt
(Cairo, Nile)
Trip Start/End:
Cairo
/
Cairo
Experience mystical legends with this spell-binding journey through Egypt featuring the most elegant ship on the Nile, the Sonesta Dahabeya. You will be treated like Pharaohs as you tour the wonders of this epic civilization led by your own certified Egyptologist. While on the 7 night cruise portion of the tour, you’ll depart for spectacular shore excursions, stopping in places that stereotypical Nile cruises cannot. Behold the timeless treasures and ancient wonders that make Egypt one of the world’s most desirable destinations and many more! In Cairo, ride horses or camels around the pyramids at sunset, stroll lively night markets, explore the world renowned Egyptian Museum and enjoy dinner at a delectable Egyptian banquet. Whether you’re encountering Egypt for first time or returning with family and friends, this classic grand tour is simply exquisite.
Sonesta Dahabeya - Saturday departure from Luxor.
NOTE; Travel in Egypt often involves early-morning starts, designed to avoid crowds and the hottest midday hours. It can be hot, especially in June, July and August, but there is virtually no humidity and evening temperatures cool off dramatically. Egypt is a moderate secular state, well used to hosting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. While you will want to avoid revealing clothing, loose shorts and short-sleeved shirts are fine for both genders.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Cairo
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Airport Assistance and Visa Service
| Mena House Hotel (5*) Pyramids View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Cairo
| - Private - Pyramids, Saqqara, Memphis Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch Exclusive - Vehicle & Driver
- Sunrise/Sunset Desert Trekking (Horse/Camel) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Mena House Hotel (5*) Pyramids View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Cairo - Luxor - Nile
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Air - Cairo - Luxor [Direct (1 hr)] - Economy
- Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Private - 1/2 d West Bank (Valley of Queens & Valley of Kings) - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Cabin (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Luxor - Nile
| - Private - 1/2 d East Bank - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Cabin (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Nile
| - At Leisure
- Sailing to Esna
| Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Cabin (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Nile
| - Private - Edfu Horus Temple - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Cabin (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Nile
| - Private - Kom Ombo Temple - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Cabin (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Nile
| - At Leisure
- Sailing to Aswan
| Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Cabin (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Aswan - Nile
| - Private - 1/2 d High Dam, Philae, Obelisk - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
| Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Cabin (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Aswan - Cairo
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Air - Aswan - Cairo [Daily - Direct (1.5 hr)] - Economy
- Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Dinner at Abou El Sid Restaurant - Vehicle and Dinner
| Sofitel El Gezirah (4.5*) Nile View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 11
- Cairo
| - Private - 1/2 d Egyptian Museum Tour - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Lunch Exclusive - Vehicle & Driver
- Cairo by Night - Vehicle Driver
| Sofitel El Gezirah (4.5*) Nile View Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 12
- Cairo
| - Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
The Mighty Sphinx
Mena House Hotel
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: Mena House Hotel (5*) The Mena House Hotel stands tall, yet guarded by the mighty heights of the Great Pyramids of Cairo. Fascinating guests since 1869, the 523 room hotel has continuously held the attention of royalty, political thinkers, and celebrities over time. A range of continental dining and Egyptian specialty restaurants and bars satisfy even the most critical of appetites. The Mena House grants guests the opportunity to relax or stay active by checking out its golf courses, horse and camel stables, and extensive fitness options. Wander a few steps outside the hotel and you may run smack into a pyramid. Forty acres of jasmine-scented gardens will leave their scent on those who depart the hotel. It’s hard to leave this embellished haven of lush furnishings, oriental prints, and hand-woven fabrics.
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 the city's finest cuisine as you stop for lunch on your tour day..
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: Mena House Hotel (5*)
Nile
Luxor Temple II
Sonesta Dahabiya
Day 3: Cairo - Luxor - Nile
Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.
Take your flight from Cairo to Luxor. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.
Airport transfer with a private vehicle and English-speaking driver in 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.
Accommodation: Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Sonesta Dahabiya combines comfort and beauty on a remarkable journey along the River Nile. This boutique Nile Cruise combines old-world charm and sophistication with the luxury of modern amenities and technology. The Sonesta Dahabiya is built in the style of a traditional Dahabiya, a beautifully crafted Egyptian sail boat. With just 6 cabins and 2 suites, this cruise offers an intimate and exclusive atmosphere of personal service and refined hospitality. Facilities aboard the Sonesta Dahabiya include an elegant lounge and an open-air oriental style Jacuzzi. The spacious deck is the ideal spot to rest in the shade as you watch 5,000 years of history unfold before you. The Sonesta Dahabiya Nile Cruise is an unforgettable journey through Egypt.
Karnak Temple
Day 4: Luxor - Nile
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.
Accommodation: Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Day 5: Nile
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Accommodation: Sonesta Nile Dahabeya
Temple of Horus
Day 6: Nile
Visit the Nile-side Temple of Horus, the falcon god, built in 230 BC by Ptolemy III. The Temple of Horus in Edfu (also known as the Temple of Edfu) is considered the best-preserved cult temple in Egypt. This is partly because it was built later than most: in the Ptolemaic era from 237 to 57 BC. Despite its later date, it reflects traditional pharaonic architecture and so provides an excellent idea of how all the temples once looked. Edfu is also very large: the second largest in Egypt after Karnak Temple.
Accommodation: Sonesta Nile Dahabeya
Kom Ombo Temple
Day 7: Nile
Visit a unique Greco-Roman temple dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, the sun god. The Temple in Kom Ombo (also known simply as Kom Ombo Temple) dates from about 180 BC, during a period known as the Ptolemaic era, and had some additions built on to it during Roman times. It stands right on the bank of the Nile between Edfu and Aswan. The temple is unusual in that it is a double temple, with one side dedicated to the god Haroesis and the other side to Sobek. The design is almost perfectly symmetrical, with two side-by-side sanctuaries and two parallel passageways leading through the outer parts of the temple. The right side is dedicated to Sobek-Re (the crocodile god combined with the sun god Re), along with his wife (a form of Hathor) and their son Khonsu-Hor. Sobek is associated with Seth, the enemy of Horus. In the myth of Horus and Osiris, Seth and his followers changed themselves into crocodiles to escape. The ancient Egyptians believed that by honouring the fearsome crocodile as a god, they would be safe from attacks. The left side is dedicated to Haroeris, the "Good Doctor" (a form of the falcon-headed god Horus the Elder) along with his consort Ta-Sent-Nefer, the "Good Sister" (another form of Hathor).
Accommodation: Sonesta Nile Dahabeya Day 8: Nile
Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Accommodation: Sonesta Nile Dahabeya
Temple of Philae on the island of Agilika
Day 9: Aswan - Nile
This 1/2 day tour begins with a visit to the impressive Aswan High Dam. The water which was collected behind created Lake Nasser, the world's largest artificial lake. View the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the Goddess Iris, on the island of Agilika, stopping at the “unfinished obelisk,” a practical demonstration of the methods used by ancient craftsmen to create impressive monuments.
Accommodation: Sonesta Nile Dahabeya
Traditional Egyptian Cuisine
Sofitel Gezirah
Day 10: Aswan - Cairo
Airport transfer with private vehicle, and driver in Aswan.
Take your flight from Aswan to Cairo. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and a half.
Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.
Experience a traditional Egyptian meal at Cairo's famous Abou El Sid restaurant.
Accommodation: Sofitel El Gezirah (4.5*) The Sofitel El Gezirah, recently refurbished to perfection and now sporting the gleam of clean cut elegance, sits conveniently in the core of Cairo. With 433 rooms, this tall, cylindrical hotel is perched on the tip of Gezirah Island on the Nile. Step onto your balcony and try to absorb the river as it drifts past your bedroom. Later, stop by the trendy international hotspot, Buddha Bar, for the most eclectic of ambient music and culinary enterprises. The floating cocktail bar, a barge on the Nile, is ideal for drinks. A gaming room, spa, and the latest amenities will surely keep the restless visitor busy. One may take a quick stroll to the Opera or a half hour bus ride to the Pyramids. Otherwise, wander around the city, get lost a little, and discover your way back to this fantastic haven.
Egyptian Museum, home of King Tut
Khan Khalili Bazaar
Day 11: Cairo
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 the city's finest cuisine as you stop for lunch on your tour day..
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: Sofitel El Gezirah (4.5*) Day 12: Cairo
Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.
Accommodation: Depart
Accommodations
Pyramids View Room
Mena House Hotel
Mena House Hotel (5*) - Cairo
The Mena House Hotel stands tall, yet guarded by the mighty heights of the Great Pyramids of Cairo. Fascinating guests since 1869, the 523 room hotel has continuously held the attention of royalty, political thinkers, and celebrities over time. A range of continental dining and Egyptian specialty restaurants and bars satisfy even the most critical of appetites. The Mena House grants guests the opportunity to relax or stay active by checking out its golf courses, horse and camel stables, and extensive fitness options. Wander a few steps outside the hotel and you may run smack into a pyramid. Forty acres of jasmine-scented gardens will leave their scent on those who depart the hotel. It’s hard to leave this embellished haven of lush furnishings, oriental prints, and hand-woven fabrics.
Sonesta Dahabiya
Cabin
Sonesta Nile Dahabeya - Nile
Sonesta Dahabiya combines comfort and beauty on a remarkable journey along the River Nile. This boutique Nile Cruise combines old-world charm and sophistication with the luxury of modern amenities and technology. The Sonesta Dahabiya is built in the style of a traditional Dahabiya, a beautifully crafted Egyptian sail boat. With just 6 cabins and 2 suites, this cruise offers an intimate and exclusive atmosphere of personal service and refined hospitality. Facilities aboard the Sonesta Dahabiya include an elegant lounge and an open-air oriental style Jacuzzi. The spacious deck is the ideal spot to rest in the shade as you watch 5,000 years of history unfold before you. The Sonesta Dahabiya Nile Cruise is an unforgettable journey through Egypt.
Sofitel Gezirah
Spa at Sofitel Gezirah
Sofitel El Gezirah (4.5*) - Cairo
The Sofitel El Gezirah, recently refurbished to perfection and now sporting the gleam of clean cut elegance, sits conveniently in the core of Cairo. With 433 rooms, this tall, cylindrical hotel is perched on the tip of Gezirah Island on the Nile. Step onto your balcony and try to absorb the river as it drifts past your bedroom. Later, stop by the trendy international hotspot, Buddha Bar, for the most eclectic of ambient music and culinary enterprises. The floating cocktail bar, a barge on the Nile, is ideal for drinks. A gaming room, spa, and the latest amenities will surely keep the restless visitor busy. One may take a quick stroll to the Opera or a half hour bus ride to the Pyramids. Otherwise, wander around the city, get lost a little, and discover your way back to this fantastic haven.
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.
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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