Private Nile Cruise

Upon arrival you will be met by a representative and driven to the hotel overlooking the Nile in the Giza Quarter of Cairo. A private guide will accompany you for the day and show you the many sites of the ancient city of Cairo.  Begin with a visit to Sakkara, one of the earliest burial grounds for the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis, where the Step Pyramid of Djoser, built for the King of the Third Dynasty, is found. In the afternoon explore the ancient Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Afterwards, you have the option of visiting the funerary boat of Kufu, considered one of the world’s great archaeological artefacts.

You will have the morning to further explore Cairo, accompanied again by your guide.  Perhaps visit the astonishing Egyptian Museum or the bustling Khalil Bazaar where you can find delicious eateries and a whole host of wares from skilled local craftsmen.  In the afternoon, you will take the short flight to Luxor. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.  The next morning you will set out with your private guide to the famous Valley of Kings and the Valley of the Queens, and explore these ancient relics. Walk amongst these awe-inspiring edifices and marvel at how they were constructed by human hands all those centuries ago. Continue onto the Tombs of the Nobles and Hatshepsut’s Temple, where you will learn all about these historically significant sites.

This morning, you will be transferred to your private dahabaya boat where you will spend the rest of the day sailing down the Nile to Awan. The dahabaya is a replica of the boats that the grand tourists of the 19th century sailed on the Nile.  Cruising by the power of wind and using a small tug boat when wind is low, this journey is peaceful and serene.  Spend the days relaxing, hopping on and off at sites or just to go on walks.  At night listen to the sounds of life around you, or perhaps take a dip in the hot-tub watching the Egyptian night sky.  Enjoy the peaceful cruise passing by Luxor’s countryside and daily life along the banks.
Spend the next five nights on the dahabaya stopping at ancient sites and small rural villages.

Have a leisurely morning on the dahabaya or wander into Aswan.
Transfer to Aswan Airport in time for your short flight to Cairo where you will have one night before the direct flight to London.