Egypt with Lindsay Mukaddam

TrovaTrip will provide 3 arrival transfers from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to the hotel between 8 am and 5 pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to meet the group at the hotel.

Let's raise a glass together to an exciting trip ahead during your welcome dinner! Tonight's dinner will be at Nile Cruise, just a 30-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.

Overnight in El Cairo.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Breakfast 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 20-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 4,500 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.

The Great Sphinx of Giza, located just 0.5 miles from the Pyramids, is a brief 10-minute walk from the pyramids. Accompanied by your guide, you will explore the details of this colossal 4,500-year-old limestone statue, measuring 240 feet in length and standing 66 feet tall. As one of the world’s largest monuments and a highly recognizable relic of ancient Egypt, take your time to absorb the mystical aura of this awe-inspiring site. Following the Sphinx visit, a vehicle will take you for approximately 10 minutes to a restaurant strategically located for a panoramic view of the Pyramids and the Giza Plateau. You will enjoy a memorable lunch with pyramid views.

Lunch is provided at a restaurant with a stunning view of the magnificent Giza Plateau. You'll enjoy a set 3-course menu featuring traditional Egyptian dishes. Please note that beverages are not included and are at your own expense. Additionally, be aware that the menu is subject to change based on the confirmed restaurant.

Overnight in El Cairo.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Breakfast 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.

After breakfast, a brief 5-minute transfer will take you to the Egyptian Museum, situated in the heart of Cairo. This renowned museum houses a magnificent collection of antiquities and serves as a perfect introduction to Egypt's rich legacy, displaying numerous treasures of the region. Guided by an expert, you'll delve into Egypt's fascinating dynastic history. The vast array of gleaming artifacts recovered from Tutankhamun's tomb is an awe-inspiring sight. From exquisite jewelry to the iconic golden death mask and gilded sarcophagi, this pharaoh's preparation for the afterlife is remarkable. Lasting approximately 2.5 hours, the tour concludes with a transfer back to the hotel, allowing leisure time for lunch. Several dining options are available close to the hotel.

In the late afternoon, a 35-minute drive will transport you to the vibrant and charming Khan El Khalili bazaar. Once there, you'll embark on a walking tour in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Known as an essential Egyptian experience, Cairo's Khan al Khalili Bazaar boasts a wide variety of colors and aromas, being 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. The tour includes a planned stop at El Fishawy Cafe, a must-visit establishment in the bustling Khan El Khalili market, providing an authentic Egyptian experience. This historic cafe has a legacy dating back over 200 years. After enjoying a cup of tea or coffee, you will be transferred back to the hotel. During the tour, you'll explore the labyrinthine streets on foot, covering approximately 0.5 to 1 mile. Restrooms will be available at El Fishawy Cafe.

During the Khan El Khalili bazaar exploration, a stop is scheduled at El Fishawy Cafe for you to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with your fellow travelers. Please note that the tea or coffee is included, but any other drinks or pastries can be purchased on-site.

Overnight in El Cairo.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Breakfast 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 50-minute transfer from the hotel to Cairo International Airport is scheduled to catch a short flight to Aswan. Please note that your flight includes one 7kg carry-on and one 23kg checked baggage. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour 20 min. Upon arrival in Aswan, the visit to the Philae Temple will be your immediate destination from the airport.

Upon arriving in the serene city of Aswan, your first stop will be the Philae Temple, directly from the airport, with a 30-minute transfer. This beautiful Temple of Isis, dedicated to the Goddess of health, marriage, and wisdom, was rescued from the rising waters of the Nile and relocated to Philae Island. Adorned with stunning decorative pylons boasting some of Egypt's most exquisite carvings, it stands as a gem of Upper Egypt. Some Egyptologists believe that Philae was the last active site of the ancient Egyptian religion and the place where the final Egyptian hieroglyph was inscribed. Access to the temple is facilitated by small motorboats, with a short 15-minute ride. Please consider using the airport facilities upon arrival, as the Philae Temple doesn't have available bathrooms. The tour duration is approximately 2 hours. Following the visit, you'll proceed to the hotel for check-in, settling in, and some free time for lunch.

In the evening, a 30-minute transfer will take you to a nearby village, offering an authentic firsthand experience of modern Nubian culture. You'll be welcomed into the house of a local Nubian family for a memorable dinner, gaining insight into their daily lives. Here, you'll witness a different side of Egyptian life, taste delightful Nubian dishes, and engage in storytelling with your warm hosts. A typical Nubian show featuring musical performances will add the perfect touch for a memorable night. Feel free to move to the rhythms of the music and let your body dance. Following dinner, a 30-minute transfer will take you back to your hotel.

Savor a Nubian-style dinner in the cozy home of a local family, featuring a variety of flavorful dishes. The dinner includes a main dish, which may vary based on the family's daily preparation. However, expect options like okra stew, or tagen, a delicious tomato-based dish served with bread to complement the flavorful sauces. Please note that beverages are not included and should be purchased on-site at your own expense.

Overnight in Aswan.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Breakfast 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.

An early morning transfer will pick you up from the hotel for a 30-minute drive to Aswan airport, where you'll board a short 45-minute flight to Abu Simbel. Upon arrival, a shared bus will transport you for approximately 15 minutes to the majestic Abu Simbel Temple, a remarkable structure commissioned by Ramses II. This location served as the gateway to Egypt for Southern Africans, and its grand facade clearly marked the boundary of Pharaoh's domain. Featuring the four colossal statues of Ramses II guarding the Great Temple, directly carved out of the mountain on the west bank of the Nile, this site stands among Egypt's most memorable sights. You'll have approximately 2 hours to explore the temple, capturing plenty of photos with your camera. Restrooms are available at the temple's entrance, and it's recommended to offer tips for the housekeeping staff. After the temple visit, you will be transferred to the Abu Simbel airport for the flight back to Aswan. You'll return to your hotel after midday, allowing free time for lunch and relaxation before the sunset felucca navigation. The tour includes shared vehicle transfers, domestic flight, entrance fee to the temple, and guide fees.

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.

Overnight in Aswan.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Breakfast 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

This early morning transfer lasts approximately 3.5 hours, taking you to the majestic city of Luxor. Stops will be made for bathroom breaks and snacks along the way as needed. Upon arrival in Luxor, you will proceed directly with the Karnak temple tour. After the tour, you will be transferred to the hotel for check-in.

Upon arriving in Luxor, you will immediately visit the magnificent Karnak Temple, one of the most impressive temple complexes in Egypt and the world. This incredible structure was constructed over approximately 2,000 years and dedicated to the god Amun. Accompanied by your professional guide, you'll explore the vast halls, enormous columns, obelisks, and statues. The temple also features a sacred lake, likely used for ritual purposes and ceremonial cleansings. The sheer size, architectural brilliance, and historical importance make Karnak Temple a must-visit for anyone fascinated by ancient Egyptian history and culture. You'll have about 2 hours to explore this extraordinary site before being transferred back to your hotel, with free time for lunch at your leisure. During this tour, expect to cover around 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain. Restrooms are available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

This tour commences in the afternoon with a 30-minute transfer to Luxor Temple, once the largest and most significant religious center in ancient Egypt. Accompanied by your specialist guide, you'll explore the temple for approximately 2 hours, uncovering its historical significance and architectural beauty. During the tour, you'll discover the remnants of the avenue of sphinxes, an ancient pathway that connected Luxor Temple to the Karnak Temple complex. Parts of this path are currently under restoration, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the ancient processional way. 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 available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

Overnight in Luxor.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Breakfast includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries, and fresh fruit.

Today, you will be picked up from your hotel before sunrise, embarking on a 30-minute journey to the western bank of the Nile River. Upon arrival at the launch site, the hot air balloon staff will welcome you and provide a briefing about the activity. Climb into the balloon basket, and your approximately 30-minute flight will commence. As you ascend gently into the tranquil morning air, suspended in a wicker basket, the breathtaking views below will unfold. The western side of the Nile offers an incredible vista with flyover sights of the Valley of Kings and Queens temples. Gracefully gliding above the landscape, you'll be immersed in silence, save for the occasional whisper of the flame heating the balloon and the gentle rustling of the wind. A boxed breakfast will be provided with you. Following the balloon, you'll head directly to the West Bank to visit the Valley of Kings. Please note that the balloon basket is shared, with a maximum capacity of 28 persons. The ascent is very gradual, almost imperceptible; however, if you are prone to dizziness, it's advisable to bring any necessary medication.

In the morning, transfer to the remarkable royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings. Concealed beneath these arid hills lie over 60 lavishly adorned pharaohs' tombs. Accompanied 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. You'll have approximately 2.5 hours to explore this extraordinary site before heading to the next attraction, the Hatshepsut Temple. During this tour, expect to cover around 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain. Restrooms are available at the temple gate, and it's customary to consider tipping the housekeeping staff.

A quick 10-minute transfer will take you from the Valley of the Kings to 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 celebrated as a masterpiece of ancient architecture. You'll have approximately 2 hours to delve into the wonders of the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Following that, a short transfer will bring you to the Colossi of Memnon. During this tour, expect to cover around 0.5 to 1 mile on flat terrain. 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 Memnon Colossi before returning to the hotel for some free time, allowing you to enjoy lunch and relaxation by the pool. Please note that restrooms are not available at the Memnon Colossi site.

Later in the afternoon, a 30-minute transfer will whisk you to a nearby village, welcoming you into the home of a local family for an unforgettable farewell dinner. Immerse yourself in a different facet of Egyptian life as you savor delicious local cuisine and participate in storytelling with your gracious hosts. Experience an enchanting live show featuring traditional Egyptian musical performances that will make the evening truly memorable. Move to the rhythms of the music and dance freely if you're inclined. After dinner, a 30-minute transfer will bring you back to your hotel. The dinner 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 on your own expense.

Overnight in Luxor.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Breakfast includes a variety of options, such as hot dishes, a selection of cold cuts, exquisite pastries, and fresh fruit.

Trova Trip will provide two departure transfers from the hotel to Luxor International Airport (LXR) between 8 am and 12 pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to the airport.