Egypt with Christina Afia

Let's raise a glass together to an exciting trip ahead during your welcome dinner! Tonight's dinner will be at a local restaurant, just a 20-minute transfer away from the hotel. It will feature a 3-course set menu with a modern twist on traditional Egyptian cuisine. Please note that drinks are not included and are at your own expense. Kindly be aware that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed restaurant.

I'm thrilled to welcome everyone and start our journey through Egypt with a quick info session. To set the stage, let's gather for a brief discussion about Egypt's role as the cradle of civilization and why it's so significant for the modern-day Black Travel Movement. I'll be sharing insights from my dissertation research on cultural heritage tours, focusing on the groundbreaking work of scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop, Anthony Browder, and Molefi Asante. We'll explore how their perspectives illuminate the rich connections between ancient Egypt and the African diaspora. I hope this conversation will deepen our appreciation for the places we'll visit and the stories we'll encounter during our trip. Looking forward to seeing you all there!

Overnight in Cairo.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Novotel Cairo El Borg offers a buffet-style breakfast that includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries, and fresh fruit. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel

Your adventure begins with an early pick-up from the hotel. Following a 30-minute transfer, you'll arrive at the iconic Giza Plateau, where time seems to stand still. Stepping out of the vehicle, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking majesty of the Pyramids, instantly captivated by their mystique and historical significance as marvelous pharaonic tombs. You'll have ample time to explore these ancient structures that have towered for over 4500 years. While you wander around the three largest Pyramids, capturing countless photos, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with the fascinating history and mysteries behind these imposing structures. The exploration will last about 2 hours, covering approximately 1 to 1.5 miles over flat terrain. Right after this, you'll start a camel ride to see the area from a different angle. Please note that restrooms are available at the gate of the pyramids, and it's recommended tipping for the housekeeping staff.

Continuing the Pyramid tour, you'll embark on a camel for a ride closer to the pyramids, relishing panoramic views of the surrounding dunes. These animals are an iconic representation of Egypt, known for their friendliness and leisurely pace, allowing you to capture photos and converse with your fellow travelers while on the ride. This captivating experience spans approximately 30 minutes, offering an opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of one of the world's most iconic sights. Following the camel ride, the tour will immediately proceed to the visit to the Sphinx. TrovaTrip collaborates closely with the local operator to ensure the humane and respectful treatment of all animals. Please be advised there is a 220lb weight limit for this activity.

Just 0.5 miles from the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx of Giza is a quick 10-minute walk. Guided by your expert, delve into the details of this colossal 4,500-year-old limestone statue, stretching 240 feet in length and towering 66 feet tall. As one of the world’s largest and most recognizable relics of ancient Egypt, take your time to absorb the mystical aura of this awe-inspiring site. After the Sphinx exploration, enjoy some free time for lunch in the Pyramids' surroundings. Discover restaurants with incredible flavors, some boasting impressive views of the Pyramids. Following lunch, a 45-minute transfer will return you to Cairo for a visit to one of the world's foremost museums.

Back in the heart of Cairo, your journey through time continues with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of antiquities, that serves as a captivating introduction to Egypt's rich legacy. Guided by an expert, you'll delve into the fascinating dynastic history, exploring a vast array of gleaming artifacts recovered from Tutankhamun's tomb. From exquisite jewelry to the iconic golden death mask and gilded sarcophagi, witness the remarkable preparations for this pharaoh's afterlife. Lasting approximately 2.5 hours, the tour concludes with a brief 10-minute transfer back to the hotel, allowing leisure time for the rest of the day.

Overnight in Cairo.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Novotel Cairo El Borg offers a buffet-style breakfast that includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries, and fresh fruit. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Depart from the hotel after breakfast for a one-hour transfer to the southern outskirts of modern-day Cairo, marking the commencement of your exploration of Saqqara. Guided by an expert, delve into the depths of this expansive and historically significant archaeological site, renowned as one of ancient Egypt's paramount burial grounds and serving as a necropolis for the ancient capital city of Memphis. Your tour will include an outside visit to the imposing Pyramid of Djoser, a monumental structure constructed during the 27th century BCE and recognized as one of the earliest large-scale cut-stone constructions. The tour encompasses other notable sites such as the Pyramid of Unas, Pyramid of Teti, Mastabas of Kagemni and Ti, The Serapeum, and the Imhotep Museum. Lasting approximately 3 hours and covering approximately 1.5 miles on foot, this comprehensive exploration offers a deep insight into the rich history and architecture of Saqqara. Following this, a transfer will take you to the Memphis Outdoor Museum. Please be advised that restrooms are available at the Saqqara gate, and it's recommended to express gratitude through tipping for the housekeeping staff.

The step pyramid of Zoser is the oldest known pyramid dates back to 2700 BC.

Following the Saqqara visit, a one-hour transfer will take you to Memphis, strategically situated at the center of the Nile's western floodplain. Renowned as the first capital of Ancient Egypt, Memphis held immense significance as a pivotal political, cultural, and economic hub. In Memphis, you'll explore an Open-Air Museum, an archaeological site that meticulously displays a rich collection of artifacts and monuments from the ancient city. Highlights include the colossal limestone statue of Pharaoh Ramesses II, the Alabaster Sphinx, and a diverse array of statues and artifacts. This guided tour offers a profound insight into the historical importance of Memphis in ancient Egyptian civilization. Around midday, a 1 hour and 10 minutes drive will bring you back to the hotel. Once there, you'll have free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure, rest, and freshen up before embarking on the evening sleeper train.

Check out of the hotel in the evening and take a brief 20-minute transfer to the train station, where you'll embark on the Sleeping Train, an authentic journey through Egypt. The approximately 11-hour trip from Cairo to Luxor offers a back-to-basics experience with modest onboard facilities. Please note that the overall cleanliness of the train might not meet your typical standards. Your accommodation will be in a cozy yet compact two-bunk bed cabin. Despite the limited quarters, the cabin is equipped with air conditioning, a small washbasin, a mirror, a power socket, and a convertible lower bed that transforms into chairs and a table. Shared bathrooms, one per carriage, are part of the experience. Bedding is provided, and you'll keep your luggage within the cabin. It's recommended to lock the compartment doors from the inside during the night to safeguard your personal belongings. Please be aware that the train lacks common spaces, so both dinner and breakfast are served directly in your cabin. Upon your early morning arrival at Luxor train station, you'll commence the exploration of the magnificent Karnak Temple.

Dinner is included during your journey on the sleeper train, and you can expect a typical airline-style meal. The staff will deliver the dinner tray to your cabin, consisting of a portion of steamed vegetables, cooked rice, beef or chicken, along with bread, fruits and orange juice. While the provided meal is comprehensive, it's advisable to bring along some additional snacks and beverages to ensure you have all your preferences covered. Please note that there are no options to purchase extra food or beverages on the train.

Overnight on board the Sleeper Train.

In the same format as dinner, breakfast is delivered to your cabin on a tray and includes basic items such as a croissant, bread with jam, a piece of cake, and cheese. While the provided breakfast is sufficient, it is advisable to bring some of your preferred breakfast items to ensure a personalized start to your day.

Upon your arrival in Luxor, a swift 30-minute transfer will take you to the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple, renowned as one of the most impressive temple complexes globally, and a testament to ancient Egyptian architectural brilliance. This monumental structure, dedicated to the god Amun, unfolded over an astonishing period of approximately 2000 years. Guided by a professional, you'll delve into the labyrinthine halls, towering columns, majestic obelisks, and statues that adorn the temple grounds. A sacred lake, likely utilized for ritualistic practices and ceremonial cleansings, adds an extra layer of intrigue. The sheer size, historical significance, and architectural grandeur make Karnak Temple an indispensable destination for those captivated by ancient Egyptian history and culture. You'll have roughly 2 hours to explore this extraordinary site before being transferred to your hotel for check-in, with free time for lunch at your leisure. Expect to cover approximately 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain during this tour. Restrooms are conveniently available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

After a well-deserved rest at the hotel, a 30-minute afternoon transfer awaits to take you to Luxor Temple, once the largest and most significant religious center in ancient Egypt. Guided by your specialist, you'll delve into the temple's historical significance and architectural beauty during a comprehensive 2-hour exploration. Throughout the tour, you'll uncover the remnants of the avenue of sphinxes, an ancient pathway that once connected Luxor Temple to the Karnak Temple complex. Some sections of this path are currently under restoration, providing a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient processional way. Expect to cover approximately 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain during this visit After the tour concludes, you'll be transferred back to the hotel, where you'll have free time for dinner at your leisure. Restrooms are conveniently available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

Overnight in Luxor.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Aracan Eatabe offers a buffet-style breakfast that includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries, and fresh fruit. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel

In the morning, a transfer from your hotel will take you on a 20-minute drive to the remarkable royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings. Concealed beneath these arid hills are over 60 lavishly adorned pharaohs' tombs. Guided by your professional guide, immerse yourself in this expansive and awe-inspiring location, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BC) were secretly laid to rest for eternity, and ongoing discoveries continue to unfold. Explore three of the most attractive tombs—Ramesses IV, Ramesses IX, and Merenptah—during your approximately 2.5-hour visit before heading to the next attraction, the Hatshepsut Temple. Expect to cover around 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain during this tour. Restrooms are available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

A quick 10-minute transfer separates the Valley of the Kings from the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the renowned queen who held the longest reign—21 years—in ancient Egypt. This colonnaded building, set against towering cliffs, forms a spectacular natural amphitheater and is hailed as a masterpiece of ancient architecture. You'll have approximately 2 hours to explore the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, covering around 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain. After immersing yourself in this impressive structure, a brief 10-minute transfer will take you to the Colossi of Memnon. Restrooms are available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

The Colossi of Memnon is a mere 10-minute transfer from the Hatshepsut Temple. Upon arrival, you'll be awestruck by these towering statues that were once integral to an impressive colonnade. Each statue, reaching a height of around 60 feet, was intricately carved from a single piece of stone. You'll have approximately 30 minutes to explore the Colossi of Memnon before returning to the city, where a traditional lunch awaits in a local house. It's important to note that restrooms are not available at the Colossi of Memnon.

Straight from the Colossi of Memnon, a transfer will take you to a local family house located in Luxor West Bank for an unforgettable lunch. Immerse yourself in a different facet of Egyptian life as you savor delicious local cuisine and engage in storytelling with your gracious hosts. Following this delightful experience, a 45-minute transfer will bring you back to your hotel, allowing some free time for rest. Lunch will consist of a main dish, which may vary based on the family's daily preparation, typically featuring meat or chicken with rice and vegetables. Please note that beverages are not included and should be purchased on-site at your own expense. It is advisable to bring cash with you.

In the afternoon, a 15-minute transfer will drive you to the banks of the Nile River, where you'll board a private Felucca, a traditional wooden sailing boat used for centuries on the Nile. The serene ride provides an opportunity to appreciate the city from a unique perspective while enjoying the company of fellow travelers and the hospitable staff against the backdrop of the setting sun. Lasting about 2 hours, the sailing experience includes traditional Nubian cookies and tea. The boat's motion is generally gentle, but if you are prone to dizziness, it's advisable to bring any necessary medication. After the sail, you'll be transferred back to the hotel, allowing free time for dinner.

As a certified yoga teacher, I'm thrilled to share with you an opportunity to practice yoga with a unique twist—right by the seaside, inspired by the ancient traditions of Kemet. Did you know that our ancestors practiced yoga, as seen in various hieroglyphs? It's fascinating to think about how these ancient practices have endured and transformed throughout time. This session will be a perfect moment to ground ourselves, meditate, and deepen our connection with the knowledge and wisdom of ancient Kemet. We'll explore Kemetic asanas (yoga poses) as we take in the calming sea breeze and soak in the beautiful surroundings. I look forward to sharing this peaceful experience with you all. Ase!

Overnight in Luxor.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Aracan Eatabe offers a buffet-style breakfast that includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries, and fresh fruit. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel

In the morning, a 30-minute transfer from the hotel to Luxor International Airport is scheduled to catch a short flight to Cairo. Please note that your flight includes one 7kg carry-on and one 23kg checked baggage. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. Upon arrival in Cairo, a 50-minute transfer will take you to your hotel, allowing for some free time to freshen up and enjoy lunch on your own.

In the afternoon, a 15-minute drive will transport you to the vibrant and charming Khan El Khalili bazaar. Once there, embark on a walking tour in the heart of Islamic Cairo on El Moez Street, adjacent to the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. As an essential Egyptian experience, Cairo's Khan al Khalili Bazaar is renowned for its array of colors and aromas, making it one of the world’s oldest marketplaces. You'll have ample time to immerse yourself in this fascinating environment, observing vendors as they prepare popular food and exploring the Al Attarin spice and El Sagha gold markets. After the bazaar tour, a transfer will take you back to the hotel. During the tour, explore the labyrinthine streets on foot, covering approximately 0.5 to 1 mile. Restrooms will be available at restaurants and cafes during the tour, with an additional cost.

Later in the afternoon, a quick 30-minute transfer will take you to a local restaurant for your final dinner with fellow travelers. Enjoy a delightful 3-course set menu featuring traditional Egyptian cuisine. Please note that drinks are not included and are at your own expense. Keep in mind that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed restaurant.

Overnight in El Cairo.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Novotel Cairo El Borg offers a buffet-style breakfast that includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries, and fresh fruit. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel