Arrive and check in at your hotel. Prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Cairo, often described as a must-see destination that encompasses the essence of the world. With a rich history as a thriving trade hub and a cultural melting pot, Cairo's beating heart pulsates with passion. From the timeless Nile River gracefully flowing through the city to the ancient monuments that have stood for thousands of years, Cairo's age is nothing short of mesmerizing. Explore its iconic landmarks, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, marvel at the highest concentration of Islamic architecture in the historic district of Old Cairo, and witness the preservation of traditional crafts and folk art as part of Cairo's UNESCO Creative City designation. Step beyond the medieval walls and wander along Muizz Street, where you can experience the grandeur of Islamic architecture, from majestic mosques and mausoleums to ornate palaces and residences that offer a glimpse into the city's illustrious past under the Fatimid dynasty and beyond.


 

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and fly to your embarkation city. Luxor, is a captivating city situated on the eastern bank of the Nile River. In the past, Luxor served as the capital of Egypt's New Kingdom, and today it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with charming colonial hotels and some of the most ancient and significant ruins in the world. Often described as an extraordinary open-air museum, Luxor offers a mesmerizing experience, with graceful single-sailed feluccas gracefully sailing along the Nile. On the eastern bank, you can explore the expansive Temples of Luxor and Karnak, connected by the historic Avenue of the Sphinxes. On the western bank, you'll discover the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of Egypt's revered pharaohs rest in eternal splendor.

With a history dating back to ancient Egypt when it was known as Caene, Qena has thrived due to its strategic location along the banks of the Nile River. Throughout the centuries, merchants and travelers have traversed through the valley, making their way to Qena from the Red Sea, bringing goods from distant lands like Persia. The prominent Sheikh el-Qenawi Mosque, situated on the main square, stands as a testament to the city's rich Islamic and Sufi heritage. Qena is renowned as the gateway to the magnificent Dendera Temple, where visitors can admire the remarkably well-preserved structures, including the impressive stone gate and towering columns adorned with hieroglyphics, showcasing the splendor of ancient Egypt.

Luxor is situated within what can be argued as one of the world's most extensive archaeological sites, known as Thebes, which was once a thriving capital of a great empire. In ancient times, Thebes was divided by the Nile River into two distinct sections: the "City of the Living" on the east bank (present-day Luxor), where the majority of the population and even Egyptian rulers resided, and the "City of the Dead" on the west bank (now called Kurna), which served as a necropolis adorned with opulent tombs of royalty and nobility.

 

Esna, once known as Latopolis in ancient Egypt, derived its name from the abundant perch species found in the sacred waters of the Nile. The city's rich history is still evident in its vibrant street market, brimming with colorful fabrics, carpets, brassware, and exquisite mother-of-pearl souvenirs. The magnificent Temple of Khnum in Esna is renowned for its Roman Hypostyle Hall from the 1st century, featuring 24 columns adorned with intricately carved floral capitals, while its walls depict depictions of Roman emperors offering tributes to Egyptian deities.

 

Located at the former northern boundary of ancient Nubia, Aswan is a remarkable city that once spanned from the Libyan Desert to the Red Sea and from central Sudan to southern Egypt. As a member of the UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, present-day Aswan is dedicated to safeguarding its cultural legacy. This commitment is demonstrated through initiatives like the Aswan Folk Dance Troupe, which showcases traditional performances worldwide, the Nubian Museum that exhibits the daily life and craftsmanship of the Nubian people, and the Aswan International Symposium of Sculpture, which promotes the ancient art of carving granite stones in the Egyptian tradition.

/> Situated at the first cataract of the Nile, where rapid waters flow through a rocky riverbed, Aswan has served as a significant Nile terminus for a long time. Today, the city's lively market near the banks of the Nile continues the tradition of trade. Aswan's prosperity also stems from its extensive granite quarries, which supplied the materials for countless ancient temples, obelisks, and pyramids throughout Egypt. In the 1960s, the completion of the Aswan High Dam led to the creation of Lake Nasser, attracting archaeologists who worked tirelessly to preserve ancient temples from being submerged.

Kom Ombo, a small town along the Nile, is nestled in the heart of one of Egypt's fertile agricultural regions, surrounded by expansive fields of sugarcane and corn. The village is home to a significant Nubian population, many of whom were displaced when their homes were submerged during the construction of the Aswan High Dam and the formation of Lake Nasser. The town's main attraction is the temple that shares its name, situated on a low hill with a captivating view of the Nile. Construction of the temple began in the 2nd century BC under the rule of an Egyptian pharaoh and was later completed by a Roman emperor around 30 BC.

Edfu, a place immersed in Egyptian mythology, holds a significant legend. According to ancient myth, it was here that the falcon god Horus fought against his uncle Seth, who had brutally slain Horus's father, Osiris. In tribute to Horus, the people of Edfu constructed a magnificent temple between 237 and 57 BC, a relatively young structure in Egyptian history. The temple's design has intrigued Egyptologists as it closely resembles that of much older temples. Nearby, an ancient settlement provides fascinating glimpses into life along the Nile, with artifacts dating back as far as 3100 BC.

Luxor, renowned for its abundance of archaeological wonders, is steeped in a rich history and cultural heritage. One captivating way to explore this heritage is by visiting the Luxor Museum. Located in the downtown area, the museum has been open to the public since 1975, established under the initiative of the Egyptian Ministry of Culture. Its carefully curated collection showcases artifacts spanning from the Old Kingdom to the Mamluk sultanate, offering insights into various periods of Egyptian history. Notable exhibits include the mummies of Ahmose I and Ramses I, as well as objects unearthed from the tomb of King Tutankhamen.

After enjoying breakfast, disembark from your ship and take a flight to your destination. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. Souks, which are traditional marketplaces, hold great significance in Egypt's social, cultural, and economic traditions. They provide a microcosm of the city, offering insights into local life, history, art, crafts, and cuisine. Cairo is home to numerous souks, with one of the most prominent located in the historic heart of the city. Originally established as a caravansary in 1382, Khan el-Khalili stands as not only the largest souk in Cairo but also the oldest in the Middle East. Its expansive maze-like alleys are filled with vibrant stalls and shops, offering a diverse range of goods.

Cairo, a longstanding cultural capital of the Middle East, has finally unveiled its highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum, which holds the distinction of being the largest archaeological museum globally and houses the complete treasure collection of King Tut. With its vibrant film industry, Cairo has become a prominent hub for Arab cinema, attracting leading stars of the silver screen and television who have chosen to make this city their home. The lively rhythm of Cairo is characterized by the constant hustle and bustle, with car horns blaring, vendors energetically calling out, and crowds of people filling the streets from morning till night. Despite the bustling atmosphere, the city's infectious spirit makes it a delightful place to explore. After enjoying breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark on your way back home.