A small group journey

Treasures of Egypt

Departing October 2025

In the Footsteps of Pharoahs

For thousands of years, Egypt has been the playground of emperors, kings and queens. Great civilisations have risen from its sandy interiors and the Nile continues to bring life to an otherwise barren land. A period of British occupation left its colonial mark but much of the scenery has barely changed since biblical times and the entire nation is wrapped in an ancient mysticism that has beguiled writers and romantics for centuries.

Join us on this awe-inspiring tour through Egypt travelling from the Great Pyramids of Giza to Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel and ending in the bustling city of Cairo. Visit the iconic and legendary Sphinx and witness the jaw-dropping enormity of the great pyramids. Walk through the Valley of the Kings and visit the rock-hewn tomb of King Tutankhamun. Sip tea (or G&Ts) on your balcony and savour the peace and tranquillity of Aswan. Enjoy a four-night cruise on a Dahabiya booked exclusively for us and the only way to truly appreciate sailing the Nile. Photograph magnificent Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, carved out of a rock cliff during the reign of Ramses II. Meander down the sphinx-lined entrance and bask in the grandeur of Luxor Temples at twilight. Meet local Nubian families, learn about traditional customs, delve into history and explore colourful and chaotic bazaars. At the end of each action-packed day, rest and recharge in exquisite heritage hotels which have hosted the likes of Sir Winston Churchill and Agatha Christie. Above all enjoy a hosted journey where you will laugh, learn and celebrate life with a group of like-minded travellers!

Experience Egypt as a modern nation bustling with life and sound, and step back through the sands of time as you follow in the footsteps of pharaohs.

REAL ADVENTURE IN UNREAL STYLE

DAY 1 | TUE 28 OCT | DEPART AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND

Depart Australia / New Zealand bound for Egypt. We recommend flying with Emirates / Qantas via Dubai.

** Please note : for those who prefer to arrive in-country to acclimatise before the tour commences we are offering a pre-tour extension for 3 nights in the fascinating oases town of Fayoum – details on request.

DAY 2 | WED 29 OCT - GIZA | 3 NIGHTS - Nozol Pyramids Hotel

Welcome to Egypt! For thousands of years Egypt has been the playground of emperors and kings. Great civilisations have risen from its sandy interiors and the Nile continues to bring life to an otherwise barren land. Much of the scenery has barely changed since biblical times and the entire nation is wrapped in an ancient mysticism which has beguiled writers and romantics for centuries.

Overlooking the Great Pyramids of Giza, Nozol Pyramids Hotel offers one of the finest views in all of Cairo. We enjoy a welcome drink, a light Egyptian mezze and raise a toast to a fabulous fortnight ahead!

Included meals: Breakfast, light meal & Welcome drink

DAY 3 | THU 30 OCT - GIZA

Visit two iconic ancient Egyptian sites this morning – the Giza Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx. Explore the interior of one of the legendary pyramids & take in the panorama of the Giza Plateau on foot or from atop a camel. Enjoy lunch (on own account) before we head back to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure where you can catch up on sleep or finish that book you started. Take time to recharge after a long flight before we make our way to Mena House for an opulent hosted Welcome Dinner and to view the sunset over the Pyramids.

Included meals: Breakfast & Hosted Dinner

DAY 4 | FRI 31 OCT - GIZA

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is set to be the largest archaeological museum in the world and will house the complete Tutankhamun collection. Larger parts of the museum are expected to be open in 2025, after much anticipation, and so we will spend the morning on a guided tour exploring the collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts currently on show and housed within its cavernous interior including an immersive Tutankhamun exhibition not seen before in Egypt; enjoy a hosted lunch at one of the newly opened restaurants and shop for unique and eclectic gifts in the beautifully curated museum gift shop. Return to our hotel for the remainder of the afternoon & evening at leisure ‐ relax on the rooftop terrace and reflect on the day’s wonders with your birdseye view of the Pyramids.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 5 | SAT 01 NOV - LUXOR | 2 NIGHTS - Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before transferring to the airport for our flight to Luxor | On arrival, transfer to our hotel before a guided tour to of the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple on Luxor’s East Bank. Dubbed the biggest open-air temple in the world, this monumental ancient Egyptian complex is adorned with colossal columns, intricate hieroglyphs, and the iconic Great Hypostyle Hall. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to the architectural marvels of ancient Thebes. In the evening, enjoy a hosted dinner on the banks of the Nile.

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6 | SUN 02 NOV - LUXOR

Travel to the West Bank of the Nile and enjoy a local breakfast before exploring the Valley of the Kings and its decorated tombs of the ancient Pharaoh Kings, including Tutankhamun’s tomb enclosed in 35‐century‐old walls. Visit the enormous funerary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, ancient Egypt’s first female pharaoh, followed by the gigantic Colossi of Memnon that acted as the Guardians of the West Bank of Luxor before lunch in one of the famous local restaurants situated on the Nile. Crossing back to the East Bank, the afternoon is at leisure to explore Luxor or relax by the pool, before we make our way to Luxor Temple, an ancient Egyptian marvel nestled along the Nile River. As the sun sets, admire majestic obelisks, graceful statues, and captivating hieroglyphs through the changing light as they whisper tales of pharaohs and gods.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 7 | MON 03 NOV - NILE CRUISE | 4 NIGHTS - Dahabiya

Optional sunrise hot air balloon ride above the Valley of the Kings early this morning.

Today we board Mandalla Dahabiya ‐ a stunning traditional sailboat and our private floating hotel for the next 4 nights. We will discover the Nile’s significant impact on ancient Egyptian civilization as we sail upstream from Luxor to Aswan aboard Mandalla. We have exclusive use of our floating oasis and will enjoy lunch and dinner on board.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8 | TUE 04 NOV - NILE CRUISE

This morning we set sail for Esna, a journey into the heart of Egypt’s cultural tapestry. As we gracefully navigate the Nile, the experience is not just a scenic cruise but a historic voyage. Crossing the Esna Lock is a fascinating part of this journey, where the dahabiya is carefully maneuvered through the lock’s chambers, showcasing the engineering marvels that facilitate the Nile’s navigation. Esna marks the ancient division between Upper and Lower Egypt. The unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under the pharaohs, symbolised by the famous “pschent” double crown, marked a significant event in ancient Egyptian history. As we leave the bustling and cosmopolitan backdrop of Lower Egypt behind, we enter the more serene and traditional landscape of Upper Egypt with its lush riverbanks, ancient temples and slower pace of life.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9 | WED 05 NOV - NILE CRUISE

An early start for our crew as we set sail before sunrise to arrive in Edfu for a pre-breakfast tour of the Temple of Horus, the Falcon‐headed God of the sky. We will board a horse and carriage to arrive at the temple before the crowds to experience its wonders mostly to ourselves. This stunningly well‐preserved & colourful structure is one of the largest in Egypt, built in 230BC by Ptolemy III it reveals what temple worship was like in ancient Egypt. Edfu Temple carries within its walls the legends surrounding Good and Evil represented in the stories of Isis & Osiris. Back on board, we sail to Ğebel el‐Silsila ‐ an archaeological site on both banks of the Nile & once the most important sandstone quarry in Egypt. It is one of the less frequented sites along the mighty Nile as larger vessels cannot reach this site (on our small Dahabiya we can). This evening we dine on traditional Egyptian food & enjoy Arabic Music and dancing ‐ time to break out your bespoke Gallabeyah or Belly Dancing outfit!

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10 | THU 06 NOV - NILE CRUISE

Our Dahabiya moors almost directly in front of the Greco‐Roman Temple of Kom Ombo (Hill of Gold) dedicated to the Sun God Horus & the Crocodile God Sobek, considered by some ancient Egyptians to be the creator of the world. We will walk to the entrance and enjoy a guided tour before viewing the mummified remains of several crocodiles that once basked along the ancient Nile shore, just as their descendants do today. Later we continue sailing upstream watching the golden sand dunes tumble into green fields that melt into the Nile, water buffalo grazing along its shores and kids playing on the banks before we reach Al Ramadi Island where we can swim, sunbathe and walk before we enjoy a BBQ dinner on shore under the stars.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11 | FRI 07 NOV - ASWAN | 3 NIGHTS - Old Cataract Hotel Aswan

On arrival in Aswan this morning, disembark from our dahabiya after breakfast, bidding a fond farewell to our fabulous crew. Here we board a small motorised boat to Philae Temple on the island of Ageilika. This sacred complex was dedicated to the Goddess Isis and reflects a fusion of three great civilizations ‐ Egyptian, Greek, and Roman. The temple was dismantled and painstakingly reassembled when the Aswan High Dam was constructed.

The coffee shop at the temple is a good place to get a cooling drink and light refreshment before we make our way to the Aswan High Dam. This monumental engineering feat spanning the Nile River was completed in 1970, and stands as one of the world’s largest dams, providing flood control, hydroelectric power for the region, and regulating water flow for Egypt’s agricultural development.

Our accommodation for the next three nights is the Old Cataract Hotel, a historic icon perched on the banks of the Nile. Established in 1899, this colonial-era gem has hosted royalty, dignitaries, and literary legends. Its timeless charm, blending Victorian and French influences, complements stunning Nile views. After check-in, the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to enjoy this spectacular iconic hotel, before we meet again for a hosted dinner overlooking the Nile.

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 12 | SAT 08 NOV - ASWAN + ABU SIMBEL

An early breakfast (or optional boxed breakfast) before we travel through the Southern Desert to the famed temple of Abu Simbel. Most famous for the two massive rock-cut temples built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BCE, the Great Temple of Abu Simbel is dedicated to Ramesses II, while the smaller temple honours his queen, Nefertari. These awe-inspiring structures were relocated in the 1960s to save them from submersion following the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

We’ll enjoy lunch in a local falafel café on our return to Aswan, and on arrival you can take time to explore the town or simply relax and swim in the pool, enjoy the complimentary spa or indulge in a treatment. You can also join a tour given by one of the resident hotel guides and learn about the history of this magnificent hotel which inspired Agatha Christie’s ‘Death on the Nile’.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 13 | SUN 09 NOV - ASWAN

Aswan, with its rich history and unique cultural blend, has also become a hub for the perfume industry in Egypt. Local artisans in Aswan craft exquisite fragrances using traditional methods and natural ingredients, influenced by the region’s flora. After breakfast at the renowned 1902 Restaurant, we visit an essential oil workshop and learn how ancient Egyptians first used perfumes, and immerse ourselves in the scents that echo Aswan’s distinctive charm. Stock up on gifts or treat yourself to a beautiful fragrant oil as a reminder of your time in Egypt.

Before lunch, we board a traditional felucca for a days sailing, a chance to relax and enjoy local life and scenery. A lazy lunch on board as we take in the sights, chat and inevitably sneak in a snooze.

In the late afternoon, we jump onto a motor boat for a sundowner cruise around the islands of Aswan, enjoying a gin and tonic, glass or bubbles or ice cold beer. Dinner will be enjoyed in a local restaurant this evening.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 14 | MON 10 NOV - CAIRO | 2 NIGHTS - Four Seasons Nile Plaza - Nile View

After an early breakfast we transfer to the airport for our flight to Cairo. On landing we will explore Old Cairo, discovering the cultural treasures of The Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches in Egypt, the Abo Serga Church with its ancient icons, and The Synagogue of Ben Ezra which stands on the site where it is believed baby Moses was found in the bulrushes. Immerse yourself in the bustling charm of Khan el Khalili bazaar, a labyrinth of narrow alleys, local shops and historic tea houses, before a hosted lunch at the famous Nagib Mahfouz cafe.

After lunch we will visit the well renowned Atef Wassef Silver Shop, enjoy mint tea with the owner and haggle over stunning silver treasures and antiques you won’t want to leave behind, before we take a leisurely stroll through downtown Cairo to admire the colonial architecture and maybe pop into one of Cairo’s famous patisseries for a little baklava to round off the day.

After check-in at our hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind at leisure.

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 15 | TUE 11 NOV - CAIRO

TWe start our day with a guided tour of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation, the first museum in the Arab world focused on the earliest civilisation in history, and home to 22 royal mummies that are part of a grand exhibit known as ‘The Pharaohs’ Golden Parade’, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian royalty, their rituals, and the cultural context of their time.

Following lunch (to own account) in the Civilisation cafe, we will enjoy a tour of the Citadel of Saladin, a medieval Islamic fortification perched high above Cairo and constructed in the 12th century to defend against Crusader attacks. The Citadel offers panoramic views of Cairo, making it a captivating destination for both history enthusiasts and admirers of Islamic architecture. Situated within the Citadel, the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Muhammad Ali Pasha Mosque, is a striking masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha in the 19th century the mosque showcases a blend of Ottoman and Mamluk architectural styles. Its grand dome and towering minarets, made of alabaster, contribute to its imposing presence on Cairo’s skyline.

Depending on how ‘open’ the Grand Egyptian Museum is, this afternoon we will visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities which currently hosts the finest pieces of Egyptian civilisation and history. Tonight we say farewell with a hosted dinner in a restaurant on the Nile, a time to reflect on the fun we’ve had and the new friends we have made!

Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 16 | WED 12 NOV - CAIRO | DEPARTURE

Enjoy your last morning in Egypt at leisure – do some last-minute shopping, enjoy a stroll along the Nile, or have a final dip in the pool before packing your bags and transferring to the airport either to board your flight home OR if you are keen to extend your exploration of the Middle East you may wish to take a look at our post-tour add-on – the ‘Jewels of Jordan’

Bid farewell to newfound friends if you are flying home. Those continuing to another Middle Eastern gem – Yalla! Let’s go!

A more detailed itinerary is available on request – please click here

ACCOMMODATION

A handpicked selection

Nozol Pyramids Hotel – Cairo

Overlooking the Great Pyramids of Giza, Nozol Pyramids Hotel offers a spectacular rooftop view of the Giza complex and is a short 15 minute walk from this ancient wonder. Newly built and offering modern amenities, Nozol promises an escape to a world of luxury and relaxation with breathtaking views of Egypt's great pyramids Read More

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa – Luxor

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa is located on the east bank of the lush River Nile, boasting glorious views over the river and the historic city of Luxor. It provides the perfect base for exploring the Valley of the Kings, visiting the temples of Karnak and Luxor or wandering the souk areas in search of treasures to take home. Read More

MS Mandalla Dahabiya – Nile River Boat

Dahabiyas are river-going sailboats which were common in Egypt during the 1920s-40s, when aristocrats and sophisticated travellers used them to cruise the Nile in style. Sailing aboard a dahabiya remains one of the most exclusive and relaxing ways to experience the Nile, watching scenery float by. Read More

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract – Aswan

Rising grandly from a pink granite shelf at the edge of the Nubian Desert with views of Elephantine Island, the five star Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan hotel sits within a 19th-century Victorian palace and blends a stunningly beautiful setting with ancient heritage and modern design. Read More

Four Seasons at Nile Plaza – Cairo

Situated on the banks of the Nile with panoramic views Cairo and the pyramids beyond, the Four Seasons at Nile Plaza offers an iconic Egyptian experience. The rooms are luxurious and plush, styled with ornate light fittings, thick carpets, and golden colour palettes - gilded luxury fit for a pharaoh. Read More

NEED TO KNOW

14 nights | 29 October - 12 November 2025

14 nights
29 October - 12 November 2025

FROM USD10,970 PER PERSON TWIN SHARE

START: Cairo | Finish: Cairo

Book Treasures of Egypt AND Jewels of Jordan before 31 December 2024 and receive a

complimentary Business Class flight from Cairo to Amman

HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR JOURNEY

10 nights in stunning hotels and 4 nights on a private dahabiya
STAYING in the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan (not just visiting!)
Great Pyramids of Giza – one of the World’s Seven Wonders
Egyptologist guide accompanying throughout
Riding camels on the Giza Plateau for that iconic photo
The Grand Egyptian Museum – open for the first time
Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Karnak Temple
Watching the moon rise over Luxor Temple
Wandering through ancient tombs in the Valley of the Kings
Sailing the majestic River Nile on a private dahabiya
Swimming in the cool waters of the Nile (optional!)
Discovering the Greco-Roman Temple of Kom Ombo
Tasting delicious street food and meeting friendly locals
Creating your own signature scent at an Aswan perfumery
Being entertained by Nubian musicians aboard a local family’s Felucca
Marvelling at the enormity of the Great Temple of Abu Simbel
Whiling away the afternoon on board a traditional felucca
Historical walking tour of Old Cairo and its labyrinthian streets
Discovering Egypt’s rich and diverse history
Sip tea under the canopy of Khan El Khalili’s covered bazaar
Retail therapy at its absolute best!
Travelling with a small group of like-minded travellers
And even more surprises…..

Inclusions

Escorted by Sarah Hoyland, Director of The Classic Safari Company
10 nights in 5 star hotels as speciﬁed (or similar)
4 nights aboard a traditional, exclusive Egyptian Dahabiya Sailing Boat
Economy class domestic flights Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo
Breakfast daily + 9 lunches + 9 dinners
Bottled water whilst touring
Airport arrival and departure transfers on dates specified to / from Emirates/Qantas flights on arrival & departure days
Land transportation in air-conditioned deluxe vehicle throughout the itinerary
Special entry to Tutankhamen’s Tomb in Luxor & Mummies Room in the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation
Camel ride at the Great Pyramids
Felucca sailing in Aswan
Music & dancing with a Nubian Family
Visit the Valley of the Kings & Hatshepsut’s Temple
Walking tours in Old Cairo, Luxor and downtown Cairo
Day trip to Abu Simbel & Lake Nasser
All sightseeing hosted by English speaking guide + all entrance fees to monuments outlined
All gratuities for porters, local guides & group restaurant meals whilst on tour
Once in a lifetime, experiences throughout the journey
Small group of like-minded travellers

Exclusions

International air arrangements plus all applicable pre-paid departure taxes
Travel Insurance and individual health requirements
Additional meals & snacks + all drinks (essentially 6 lunches + 5 dinners + drinks)
Room or ﬂight upgrades
Transfers to any flight other than specified Emirates/Qantas flights
Laundry, camera fees (minimal) and personal purchases
Discretionary tip for Dahabiya boat crew (budget US$300)
Egypt Tourist Visa
Items of a personal nature & any item not speciﬁed

Minimum – 8 travellers

Maximum – 16 (plus host)

FLIGHTS & AIRFARES

We recommend flying with Emirates or Qantas (codeshare) via Dubai as they offer a seamless connection. Airfares are not included in the tour cost to allow you the freedom to choose your preferred carrier, class of travel and/or to utilise frequent flyer points if you wish. Airfare quotes are available on request.

Terms and conditions apply – please click here for full details.
This tour departs with a minimum of 8 people and a maximum of 16 people (plus host).
A single room supplement applies of USD 3,990 if you wish to secure your own room. If you are ‘willing to share’ we will do all possible to pair you with another participant. If unsuccessful the single supplement will apply. Call us to discuss.
The price is subject to change due to currency fluctuation and unforeseen changes beyond our control.
Due to situations beyond our control, we reserve the right to substitute any hotel or boat with another of comparable quality – this would be advised as soon as possible.
Any quoted airfares & taxes are subject to change at any time before, or at the time of, ticketing.
Australian & New Zealand passport holders require a visa for Egypt for a stay of up to 30 days. A visa must be obtained online before arrival. If you do not travel on an Australian or New Zealand passport please let us know.
By making any payment for this tour, and joining this tour, you acknowledge you have read and understood our Booking Terms & Conditions

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Hosted by...

Sarah Hoyland

Sarah is a Director of The Classic Safari Company and this, our Treasures of Egypt tour in 2025, will be her fourth hosted journey through this incredible destination. Sarah has handpicked the accommodation, your private Nile sailing boat and curated many of the experiences you will enjoy. Having travelled to all seven continents (twice) and hosted tours across more than seven exotic countries she is adept at organisation, hosting and ensuring you have a lot of fun!

The trip was superbly organised, the hotels brilliant and activities, informative and spectacular. This definitely won't be the last trip that I take.

Sarah was full of fun, life, ideas, knowledge and of course madly making it all happen seamlessly for us!! So so appreciate everything you did for us, our survey was just full points on every score because everything to do with the trip was full points on every score!

OMG – what an unbelievably, amazing experience we all had. All accommodation and staff were fabulous. So blessed and so lucky – still smiling as I think about my adventure!! Thank you Sarah for such an amazing trip. I can’t begin to tell you how fabulous it was and how much of a spectacular time I had.

What an incredible trip with the best crew. Still seems surreal to me.

JMc

Thank you all for such a wonderful trip. It really was fabulous and your companionship made it extra special.

I'm still pinching myself a week later, as I remember our spectacular Egypt adventure. Look forward to seeing you again soon.

That was a spectacular holiday! Can't imagine how I'll answer if I'm asked to pinpoint a standout experience. Every day was an incredible experience never to be forgotten. Thanks all for such a special group, and huge thanks to Sarah and Iman for making it the wonderful experience that it was.

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