Why this
Matters
This tour was originally conceived as a quick add-on to our Jordan tour, but it soon became clear that trying to capture the wonders of Egypt in 2 days was neither possible nor fair. Our tour takes you to the see the very best of Egypt's historical and cultural treasures with an experienced Egyptologist. But as with all EVA tours, we want to make a difference and ensure that our tour is meaningful. You can join us in Egypt after your tour to Jordan or simply book this as a standalone trip. But it's a journey worth taking with a company you can trust
Connect with resilient local people and experience authentic traditions in the vibrant Nubian villages.
Ancient to Extraordinary: Stand before the Great Pyramids of Giza, Islamic and Coptic attractions, the Sphinx, and the majestic Valley of the Kings
Explore Cairo with our expert Egyptologist and spend as long as you wish in the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Experience the vibrant culture of the Nubian village in Aswan, where your visit supports local artisans and traditional mud-brick housing. As part of our give back initiative, we started a program called One Traveller One Tree, leaving a lasting impact in the places we visit. Small change makes a big difference. Each tree you plant will reforest native species or provide fruiting trees for children in their school years.
The
Journey
Arrival in Cairo: The Gateway to Antiquity
Welcome to Egypt! As you touch down at Cairo International Airport, our local team will warmly welcome you, ensuring a seamless and stress-free arrival process. From the moment you step off the plane, the intoxicating blend of ancient history and bustling modern life sets the tone for your adventure.
You will be whisked away in private, air-conditioned comfort to your luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of the city. Take the afternoon to unwind, acclimate, and soak in your first vibrant sunset over the skyline. In the evening, gather for a relaxed welcome dinner at the hotel, getting to know your fellow travelers as we prepare for the phenomenal journey that lies ahead.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Swiss Inn Pyramids Golf Resort or similar
Day 1
Luxor Bound: The East Bank & Karnak Temple
After an early breakfast, we catch a short domestic flight south to Luxor—the world's greatest open-air museum. Our first immersion into Egypt's monumental past begins at the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex. Stroll through the colossal Hypostyle Hall, a forest of 134 massive sandstone columns towering overhead, and feel the sheer scale of devotion that spanned over 2,000 years of construction.
Following our exploration, we'll board our premium 5-star Nile Cruise ship, which will be our floating sanctuary for the next few days. After a delicious onboard lunch, we disembark as the sun begins to dip, visiting the striking Luxor Temple. Beautifully illuminated against the evening sky, the temple and its newly restored Avenue of Sphinxes offer a truly magical end to our first day of exploration. We'll return to the cruise for a sumptuous dinner and a peaceful overnight stay on the water.
Overnight: Overnight on Zeina Nile Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2
Valley of the Kings & Setting Sail for Esna
There's an opportunity for an optional hot air balloon ride this morning, if this is something you'd like to do. It would be an early start but we'll get you to the meeting point and wait for you to return.
Today, we cross over to the West Bank of the Nile, stepping into the legendary Valley of the Kings. Hidden deep within the stark, sun-drenched hills, these royal burial grounds hold the secrets of the pharaohs. We'll descend into three distinct, remarkably preserved tombs adorned with vivid hieroglyphics that have survived millennia.
Our journey continues to the breathtaking Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a masterpiece of ancient architecture rising in dramatic terraces from the desert plain, followed by a stop to marvel at the towering Colossi of Memnon. Returning to our cruise for lunch, we cast off and begin our serene voyage up the Nile. Watch the timeless riverbanks drift by from the sun deck, eventually crossing through the historic Esna Locks as we enjoy high tea at sunset.
Accommodation: Overnight on Zeina Nile Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and High Tea at Sunset on the Cruise Deck
Day 3
Edfu, Kom Ombo & A Nile Celebration
We awake to the gentle rhythm of the Nile, arriving in Edfu. Here, we step ashore to visit the Temple of Horus. As one of the most impeccably preserved ancient monuments in Egypt, its soaring pylons and intricate carvings offer an unparalleled window into the religious life of the Ptolemaic Kingdom.
Returning to the ship, we sail onward to Kom Ombo, a unique double temple perched majestically on the riverbank. Dedicated symmetrically to both the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus, the site is equally famous for its fascinating Crocodile Mummification Museum. As evening falls, we celebrate our journey with an authentic Egyptian Galabiya Party on board, sharing music, dancing, and laughter under the stars.
Accommodation: Overnight on Zeina Nile Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4
Aswan: Nubian Culture & Felucca Breezes
Arriving in the picturesque city of Aswan, the Nile takes on a distinct character, winding through striking granite boulders and lush palm islands. Today we will visit the vibrant Nubian village after taking a short ride by motorboat. Here, we can engage with the resilient local community, admire their brightly painted traditional mud-brick homes, and support local artisans while sipping authentic spiced tea.
The Nubian are one of the most ancient people in Africa; they speak their own language and have specific traditions which are different to the rest of Egypt. This visit will also give us the opportunity to give back a little as we engage with the village children and plant trees to mark our EVA visit.
In the afternoon, we take to the water in a traditional, white-sailed Felucca boat. Gliding silently around Elephantine Island and the beautiful Botanical Gardens, it’s a moment of pure tranquility. Later, we'll dive into the sensory delights of Aswan’s famous Spice Souk, navigating narrow alleys fragrant with hibiscus, saffron, and frankincense.
Accommodation: Overnight Zeina Nile Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5
The Island Temple of Philae & Return to Cairo
We start our morning with a short, scenic boat ride to Agilkia Island to explore the magnificent Philae Temple. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this romantic sanctuary was famously saved from the rising waters of the Nile in a massive UNESCO rescue operation. We will also visit the engineering marvel of the Aswan High Dam, which reshaped the modern landscape of Egypt.
For lunch, we'll indulge in a rich, authentic Tajin meal at a celebrated local Nubian restaurant, savoring the distinct flavors of southern Egypt. In the afternoon, we bid farewell to the Nile and board our flight back to the bustling energy of Cairo, transferring directly to our 5-star hotel for a restful evening.
Accommodation: Swiss Inns Pyramids Golf Resort
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6
The Great Pyramids, Sphinx & Grand Egyptian Museum
Prepare for a day of iconic wonders. We head to the Giza Plateau to stand before the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinos—the last surviving Wonders of the Ancient World. We'll descend to the valley to meet the enigmatic Great Sphinx, an immortal guardian carved from a single ridge of limestone.
The afternoon brings us to the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). This state-of-the-art facility houses the most comprehensive collection of Egyptian antiquities in the world, including the complete, dazzling treasures of King Tutankhamun and the meticulously reconstructed Solar Boat. It's a fitting climax to our historical immersion. We'll conclude the day, and our journey together, with a spectacular farewell dinner, toasting to the friendships made and the unforgettable memories forged.
Accommodation: Swiss Inns Pyramids Golf Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7
Farewell Egypt
Enjoy one final, leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to return to the GEM if you want to spend more time browsing or do some last-minute shopping. Our team will help with your transfer you to Cairo International Airport, assisting with your departure.
As you fly home, you carry with you not just photographs and new friends, but the profound, lingering magic of the pharaohs, the warmth of the Egyptian people, and the timeless spirit of the Nile.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8
What's Included
What's Included
Accommodation
Lots of meals
Local transport
Guided excursions
Volunteer project fees
What's Not Included
International flights
Travel insurance
Visa fees
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Your Questions
The Gallery
