EGYPT
Introduction
The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi seamlessly blends ultramodern skyscrapers, opulent luxury, and deep-rooted Arabian traditions. From the architectural marvel of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the vast dunes of the Liwa Desert, the cultural hubs on Saadiyat Island, and the serene Corniche waterfront, it offers a rich tapestry of history dating back to 3000 B.C., world-class museums, diverse cuisine, and unparalleled hospitality in a safe, cosmopolitan setting.
Top Regions to Explore
Cairo
Bustling capital with the Pyramids of Giza, Egyptian Museum, and Khan El Khalili bazaar blending ancient wonders with urban energy.
Alexandria
Mediterranean port with Greco-Roman heritage, Qaitbay Citadel, and Bibliotheca Alexandrina; vibrant coastal city vibes.
Aswan
Nubian gateway with Philae Temple, Abu Simbel, and serene Nile islands; ideal for felucca sails and cultural immersion.
Sharm El-Sheikh (Red Sea Coast)
Resort hub for pristine beaches, world-class diving reefs, and luxury escapes amid turquoise waters and marine life.
Luxor
Ancient Thebes featuring Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, and Luxor Temple; the epicenter of pharaonic history.
Key Cultural and Historical Highlights
Cultural Practices
Hospitality key; accept tea graciously, use right hand, remove shoes indoors/mosques.
Major Festival
Ramadan iftars
Abu Simbel Sun Festival (Feb/Oct)
Coptic Christmas (Jan)
Eid al-Fitr
Seasonal Connection
Ramadan fasting/iftars; winter evenings for tea in cafes; summer late-night bazaars.
UNESCO Sites
Pyramids of Giza, Ancient Thebes (Luxor), Historic Cairo, Abu Simbel, Saint Catherine, Whale Valley, Abu Mena.
Unique Experiences
Hot Air Balloon Over Luxor
Soar at dawn above Valley of the Kings and temples for breathtaking Nile vistas.
Nile Felucca Cruise
Sail traditional wooden boats at sunset, drifting past temples and villages.
Entering a Pyramid
Descend into ancient chambers at Giza or Dahshur for pharaonic history immersion.
Khan El Khalili Bargaining
Haggle for spices and crafts in Cairo's historic bazaar.
Signature Food
Shawarma
Grilled meat wrap with garlic sauce and veggies.
Falafel
Deep-fried chickpea balls in pita with tahini.
Manakish
Flatbread topped with za’atar, cheese, or meat.
Arabic Coffee (Gahwa)
Spiced black coffee served with dates.
Sample Itineraries
7-Day Egypt: Cairo & Luxor Luxury
A curated luxury journey connecting the vibrant energy of Cairo with the timeless majesty of Luxor. Stay in 5-star Nile-view hotels, enjoy private tours of the Great Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum, and witness the history of Thebes come alive with exclusive access and evening light shows.
- Giza Plateau: Stand before the Great Pyramids and Sphinx.
- Grand Egyptian Museum: Explore the world’s largest archaeological museum.
- Royal Mummies: Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.
- Luxor Temples: Walk the halls of Karnak and Luxor Temple.
- Valley of the Kings: Descend into the colorful tombs of pharaohs.
Day 1: Welcome to Cairo
- Arrive at Cairo International Airport.
- Meet representative for visa assistance and private transfer.
- Check-in to Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile with river views.
- Relax and enjoy the hotel’s infinity pool by the Nile.
Day 2: Pyramids & Grand Museum
- Visit the Giza Plateau to see the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinos.
- Stop at the Panoramic View point for photos of all three pyramids.
- Visit the Great Sphinx and the Valley Temple.
- Enjoy a Camel Ride in the desert sands.
- Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) to see Tutankhamun’s treasures.
- Lunch at a local restaurant with pyramid views.
Day 3: Old Cairo & Civilization
- Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) to see the Royal Mummies Hall.
- Explore Old Cairo, walking through ancient stone alleyways.
- See historic churches and synagogues in the Coptic area.
- Lunch at a traditional local restaurant.
- Return to hotel for a free evening.
Day 4: Fly to Luxor & Karnak Light Show
- Private transfer to Cairo Airport for flight to Luxor.
- Arrival in Luxor and transfer to Steigenberger Nile Palace.
- Check-in and relax at the riverside hotel.
- Evening visit to Karnak Temple for the spectacular Sound and Light Show.
- Walk through the illuminated columns listening to the history of Thebes.
Day 5: West Bank & East Bank Treasures
- Cross to the West Bank to visit the Valley of the Kings.
- Enter royal tombs including King Tutankhamun and Seti I.
- Visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut built into the cliffs.
- Photo stop at the towering Colossi of Memnon.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Return to the East Bank to explore the massive Karnak Temple Complex.
- Visit the elegant Luxor Temple in the city center.
Day 6: Return to Cairo
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Private transfer to Luxor Airport for flight back to Cairo.
- Transfer to Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile for final night.
- Evening tour of Khan el-Khalili Bazaar at night.
- Farewell dinner at the historic Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant.
Day 7: Departure
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Private transfer to Cairo International Airport for final departure.
9-Day Egypt: Cairo & Sharm El Sheikh
A luxurious blend of Cairo’s ancient wonders and the relaxing coastal vibes of Sharm El Sheikh. Experience the grandeur of the Pyramids and the new Grand Egyptian Museum before retreating to the Red Sea for snorkeling, desert safaris, and stargazing.
- Giza Pyramids: Stand before the Great Pyramids and Sphinx.
- Grand Egyptian Museum: Exclusive early access to the world’s largest archaeological museum.
- Red Sea Relaxation: Snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs of Ras Mohamed.
- Desert Adventure: Quad biking and stargazing in the Sinai desert.
- Cairo Nightlife: Dinner cruise on the Nile and exploring Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
Day 1: Welcome to Cairo
- Arrive at Cairo International Airport.
- Meet representative for visa assistance and private transfer.
- Check-in to Kempinski Nile Hotel with river views.
- Relax in your Nile Deluxe Room.
Day 2: Pyramids & Museum (or Nile Cruise)
- Option 1: Private tour of the Giza Plateau (Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, Mykerinos) and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Includes camel ride and lunch.
- Option 2: Magical Nile River Cruise with fine dining, belly dancing, and folkloric shows (4 hours).
- Return to hotel.
Day 3: Egyptian Civilization
- Tour the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) to see the Royal Mummies.
- Explore Old Cairo, visiting ancient churches like the Hanging Church.
- Walk through Islamic Cairo, admiring majestic mosques and minarets.
Day 4: Fly to Sharm El Sheikh
- Private transfer to Cairo Airport.
- Flight to Sharm El Sheikh.
- Private transfer to Movenpick Sharm El Sheikh.
- Check-in to a Sea View Room and relax by the beach.
Day 5: Sinai Desert Adventure
- Morning leisure at the resort.
- Afternoon Quad Biking across golden dunes.
- Camel Trek through peaceful desert landscapes.
- Stargazing with an expert guide and telescope in a Bedouin camp.
Day 6: Ras Mohamed Boat Trip
- Full-day boat trip to Ras Mohamed National Park.
- Snorkel at three different stops in vibrant coral reefs.
- Buffet lunch served on board with soft drinks.
- Return to hotel in the late afternoon.
Day 7: Return to Cairo & Night Bazaar
- Private transfer to Sharm El Sheikh Airport for flight to Cairo.
- Transfer to Kempinski Nile Hotel for one night.
- Evening tour of Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.
- Farewell dinner at the historic Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant.
Day 8: Departure
- Private transfer to Cairo International Airport for final departure.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions
Hakone
~1.5 hours by train
Kamakura
~1 hours by train
Yokohama
~30 minutes by train
Accommodation Highlights
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
Sky-high luxury with Imperial Palace views
Fairmont Tokyo
PAW-tastic luxury for your pet
The Peninsula Tokyo
Impeccable service, Ginza location
The Okura Tokyo
Mid-century elegance, Japanese garden serenity
Aman Tokyo
Urban sanctuary, Japanese minimalist luxury
Conrad Tokyo
Sleek skyscraper luxury, stunning bay views
Best Time to Visits by Activities
April to June (Spring)
Mild for Nile cruises and beaches; blooming deserts, but possible sandstorms. Highlight: Outdoor sightseeing in Luxor/Aswan before peak heat.
July to August (Summer)
Hot for Red Sea diving; inland intense, but resorts offer cool escapes. Highlight: Budget beach holidays in Hurghada with fewer crowds.
September to October (Autumn)
Ideal for pyramids and temples; warm days, cooling nights. Highlight: Abu Simbel Sun Festival and comfortable Cairo walks.
November to February (Winter)
Best for all activities; mild weather, peak tourism season. Highlight: Nile cruises and desert safaris under clear skies.
Summary Notes
October-April optimal for sightseeing and cruises; Red Sea year-round, but avoid summer inland unless beach-focused.
Travel Practicalities
Visa and Entry Requirements
eVisa/Visa on Arrival: For 80+ nationalities (e.g., US, Canada, EU); $25 single-entry (30 days), $60 multiple-entry; apply online or at airport.
Requirements: Passport valid 6+ months; no Israel stamps; yellow fever vaccine if from high-risk areas.
Currency
- Official Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
ATMs widespread;
USD/EUR accepted in tourist areas
Cards accepted in hotel and cities
Cash for bazaars and tips
Language
Official language: Arabic
English widely spoken in tourist areas
Local Transportation
Domestic Flights
Bus
Cairo Metro
Taxis
Local Tips and Culture
Mosque Etiquette: Cover shoulders/knees; women wear headscarves; non-Muslims welcome outside prayer times.
Bargaining: Common in souks for gold/spices; polite negotiation expected.
Beware Scams: Use apps for taxis; ignore aggressive touts; confirm prices upfront. Recommend to arrange a professional guide for the trip.
Safety and Practical Tips
Safe to explore
Low crime for tourists; avoid borders/Sinai (except resorts), demonstrations.
Health Precautions
Drink bottled water; pharmacies abundant. Heat protection, yellow fever vaccine if required.
Emergency
All Emergencies: (122);
Tourist Police: (126)