9 Days in Egypt Cairo Highlights and Luxor Nile Cruise

Welcome to the timeless land of the pharaohs. Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be warmly greeted and privately transferred to your luxury hotel. Take time to unwind and enjoy its refined surroundings before joining your expert Egyptologist and fellow guests for a welcome reception, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey through Egypt.

This morning, meet your Egyptologist guide and transfer to the airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex of the ancient world. Walk along the historic avenue of ram-headed sphinxes and stand beneath the soaring columns of the Great Hypostyle Hall as your guide reveals the stories carved into its ancient walls.

Later, transfer to your luxury Nile cruise ship — your elegant home for the next four nights. After lunch on board, visit the renowned Luxor Museum, where a refined collection of ancient artefacts and royal mummies offers deeper insight into Egypt’s extraordinary past.

Return to the ship for dinner and relax in the comfort of your suite or unwind in the lounge as the Nile sets the scene for the journey ahead.

This morning, journey by coach to the west bank of the Nile. Begin with the majestic Colossi of Memnon, then explore the remarkable Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, rising dramatically from the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari.

Next, visit the legendary Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Amenhotep I were laid to rest in elaborately decorated tombs.

Enhance your journey with an authentic cultural encounter in the village of Geziret Bahirat. Share bread with a welcoming local family and hear the stories of daily life along the Nile, gaining a rare insight into Egypt’s enduring traditions.

Return to the east bank to admire the magnificent Luxor Temple, unearthed in the 1860s by Auguste Mariette. Conclude your day by returning to your luxury Nile cruise ship and sailing through the Esna Lock toward Edfu, where you will enjoy a relaxing overnight stay on board.

In the early morning, sail to Kom Ombo Temple, Egypt’s unique double temple dedicated to two gods. Explore its perfectly symmetrical design, created to honour Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder, the falcon god, as your Egyptologist guide brings its fascinating history to life.

Enhance your journey with a choice of experiences offered by Monarch Vacations: participate in an Egyptian cooking demonstration or enjoy tea with the ship’s Captain, offering a memorable insight into local traditions.

In the evening, delight in a lively, traditional Egyptian-themed dinner on board, complete with a galabeya party, music, and entertainment for a truly immersive cultural experience.

In the morning, disembark from your luxury Nile cruise and enjoy some time at leisure in Aswan. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider an optional flight to the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples, built by Ramesses II. Overlooking the serene waters of Lake Nasser, this extraordinary site comprises the Great Temple of Ramesses II and the Temple of Hathor.

Alternatively, spend the morning at your own pace. Stroll through the vibrant Nubian Bazaar, relax amidst the lush Botanical Gardens, explore Elephantine Island, or visit the striking Aga Khan Mausoleum.

Later, transfer to the airport for your comfortable flight back to Cairo, where you will spend the evening at your luxury hotel.

Gain a deeper appreciation of the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World during a visit to Pyramids of Giza with your Egyptologist guide. Stand in awe before these monumental structures and encounter the enigmatic Great Sphinx of Giza pharaohs once prepared for the afterlife, before continuing to Memphis Ramesses II and the remarkable Alabaster Sphinx.

At Saqqara, marvel at the Step Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt’s oldest pyramid, dating back to around 2700 B.C. Enhance your journey with a Rethinking Tourism® Experience at a local weaving school, meeting skilled artisans who are preserving Egypt’s traditional crafts.

This evening, celebrate the conclusion of your extraordinary journey with a farewell reception, enjoying canapés and drinks with fellow travellers as you reflect on the wonders of Egypt you have experienced.

Your unforgettable journey concludes with a private transfer to Cairo International Airport