Day 1: DUBAI Get Settled

• Airport Meet & Greet

  
  

• Private Airport Transfer

For your added comfort, an English-speaking assistant will be waiting for you at the arrival gate holding a sign with your name on it. You will be assisted through immigration, airport security, and a dedicated fast track counter. Porter service is provided at the luggage belt area only. You will also receive a voucher for access to the Marhaba departure lounge at this time.

A private vehicle and driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.

Day 2: DUBAI Secrets of the City

• Full Day Private Guide & Driver

  
  

• Modern Dubai & Burj Khalifa Prime Experience (8 hrs) – Private Tour

Setting out with a private guide and driver, embark on a full day tour of Modern Dubai, immersing yourself in the ultra luxe and awe-inspiring delights of this state-of-the-art city’s modern core. At Jeremiah Beach, enjoy an uninterrupted view and photo opportunity of the iconic Burj Al Arab, an offshore sail-shaped beacon of Dubai. Continue to Palm Jumeirah where you’ll visit The View observation deck at the Palm Tower. From this elevated vantage point, admire incredible views over the world’s largest man-made island, uniquely engineered in the shape of a palm tree. Visit the stunning Museum of the Future, discovering interactive exhibits where you can see, touch, and shape our possible shared futures for a more hopeful tomorrow. At Dubai Mall, discover the scale one of the world’s largest shopping centers. Walk around and take in the sheer magnitude of this buzzing hotspot, while also having an opportunity to indulge in coveted luxury brands or epicurean delights. Your day culminates in an unforgettable late afternoon ascent to the top of the world’s tallest building, the towering and iconic Burj Khalifa. Witness the setting sun as you discover the Burj’s remarkable 124th-floor ‘At The Top’ observation deck, where floor-to-ceiling glass walls offer unparalleled 360-degree views over the city, desert and ocean. Conclude your day with a return transfer to your hotel, or opt to be dropped off at the Dubai Fountains for an opportunity to enjoy the majestic evening show independently. Please speak with your Destination Expert if you would like some restaurant recommendations near the fountains.

Day 3: DUBAI Sights and Insights

• Half-Day Private Guide & Driver

  
  

• Dubai Old City Tour (4 hrs) - Private

  
  

• Shared Dhow Dinner Cruise on Dubai Creek (with Private Transfers, 2 hrs)

Set out with your private guide and driver for an enchanting half day tour exploring the historical beauty of Old Dubai. While Dubai is typically seen as an inspiring modern mega-city, the adjacent Old Quarter remains, whispering secrets from the past. Head to Bastakiya, one of the oldest neighborhoods of Dubai, where heritage and golden traditions come to light. Discover the city’s well preserved cultural surroundings as you weave through the alleys of the Al Fahidi historical district, spotting some of the old buildings dating back to the late 19th century, including traditional airflow mechanisms known as wind towers. Board an abra, the traditional equivalent of a water taxi, as you’re shuttled across the historical Dubai Creek. Step ashore and explore the enchanting gold and spice souks, offering delightful sensory experiences with scents, sounds, and colors abound. Wrap up your experience with a photo stop at the elegant Jumeirah Mosque, a classic architectural landmark with old Syrian and Egyptian influence.

Tonight your private driver will pick you up and transfer you for an unforgettable shared evening cruise along the Dubai Creek on board a traditionally decorated Dhow. A sumptuous buffet dinner will be served including continental and Pan-Asian dishes. Soft drinks and mineral water are included. Experience the atmosphere of Dubai by night accompanied by Arabic music. The cruise takes approximately 2 hours. Return transfer included.

Day 4: DUBAI Date Night

• Optional Activities

  
  

• Platinum Desert Safari (with Dinner, 6 hrs) - Private

Optional Activities (Not Included):
Dubai is a stirring alchemy of profound traditions and ambitious futuristic vision. A bustling microcosm of the world, the diversity here is astonishing and can be seen in the architecture, music, fashion and food. With a history rooted in the Islamic tradition, here the modern meets the ancient as you explore and discover what Dubai is to you. Here you can dine like Bedouin, dance on the beach, get lost in the historic labryinth of Al Fahidi District, visit the Dubai Museum, the art galleries, or shop in the modern Dubai Mall or in the gold, spice, or historic souks for local arts and treasures. For those seeking more adventure visit the Wild Wadi Water Park or ride up the Burj Khalifa for breathtaking views from the observation deck. In the desert ride a camel, go sand boarding, 4x4 exploring or soar up and away over the desert by hot air balloon!

Ask your travel consultant to include one of these, or other unique experiences, in your itinerary.

Experience the most luxurious desert safari in the United Arab Emirates, the Platinum Desert Safari is an impressive afternoon and evening safari curated for discerning travelers looking for a premium experience. Explore the Dubai Desert in a private ultra-premium Range Rover, as your Conservation Guide leads you on a gentle journey through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in search of exotic native wildlife. During your nature drive, you will learn about the Dubai desert’s fauna and flora stop and take envy-inducing pictures on dunes, at a Ghaf tree forest, a beautiful, remote lake. As the sun sets over the dunes, arrive to a Bedouin camp where you'll meet other safari guests, and witness a spectacular falconry performance, savoring sunset canapes and sipping on sparkling juice while you enjoy the spectacle. For dinner, relax in a serene desert oasis and embark on a fine-dining six course culinary journey served on a table made from an antique Arabic wooden door that sits beside your private Majlis, complete with silk carpets and soft, fluffy cushions where you can relax by your bon-fire surrounded by the rolling dunes and quiet, peaceful desert. The evening ends with captivating entertainment of fire and acrobatics that will leave you at the edge of your seat for an unforgettable experience.

Day 5: DUBAI to CAIRO En Route

• Private Airport Transfer

  
  

• Air - Dubai - Cairo [4 hrs] - Economy

  
  

• Airport Assistance & Visa Service

  
  

• Private Airport Transfer

A private vehicle and driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.

Board a flight from Dubai to Cairo. The flight duration is approximately three hours and 45 minutes. Separate purchase is required.

For your added comfort, upon your arrival at the airport, an airport representative will greet you in the tunnel and escort you through customs and immigration. The representative will facilitate the included visa process for you. Continue to the baggage claim hall and passenger pick up. Here an airport representative will help you connect with your private transfer to your hotel.

Enjoy a private airport transfer accompanied by an English-speaking representative.

Day 6: CAIRO Cross an Item off the Bucket List

• Half Day Pyramids of Giza & the Sphinx, Entrance to Chephren Pyramid - Private Tour

  
  

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant

  
  

• Dinner at Marriott Mena House Hotel

The Great Pyramids of Giza are the most iconic image of Egyptology and an absolute must-see on any trip to Cairo. Meet with your private guide, driver, and Egyptologist, and head to Giza to discover this only surviving site of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Great Pyramids of Giza juxtaposed against the famous Sphinx statue. The sheer beauty and allure of the Sphinx have mystified world travelers the likes of Alexander the Great and Napoleon Bonaparte, an imposing scene against the backdrop of the infinite desert behind it. The mysteries of the Great Pyramids have piqued the curiosity of visitors for thousands of years. Enter the Pyramid of Chephren, also known as the Pyramid of Khafre. The second tallest and second largest of the major pyramids, it sets on bedrock 33 feet higher than Khufu’s pyramid, which makes it appear to be taller.

Relax and enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, including a choice of a small bottle of water, soft drink, tea or coffee.

Dine at one of Marriott Mena House's delectable in-house restaurants this evening.

Day 7: CAIRO to LUXOR to NILE The Journey Continues…

• Private Airport Transfer

  
  

• Air - Cairo - Luxor [1 hr] - Economy

  
  

• Private Airport Transfer

  
  

• Embarkation (Noon)

  
  

• Lunch on Board (Included)

  
  

• Half Day Temples of Karnak and Luxor - Private Tour

  
  

• Cruise Entertainment

  
  

• Dinner on Board (Included)

Enjoy a private airport transfer accompanied by an English-speaking representative.

Board a flight in Cairo with direct service to Luxor. Approximate flight duration is one hour.

Please note, luggage restrictions apply to this regional flight. 1) Maximum of one checked bag, weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg) – Economy, 70 lbs (32 kgs) - Business; Checked baggage cannot be larger than 62 linear inches (158cm). 2) Guests can also bring a piece of carry-on luggage with a maximum weight of 17 lbs (8 kg). Passengers flying in Business Class may bring two pieces of carry-on luggage.  

A private transfer between the airport and your hotel is provided. 

Welcome aboard!
Take some time to get settled in to your stateroom and to explore the length of your ship.

This evening you'll overnight at port in Luxor.

Luxor is home to one of the world’s greatest open-air museums, with the ruins of Karnak and the Temples of Luxor in easy reach along the East Bank of the city. With your private Egyptologist guide, visit the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the monuments of Karnak and Luxor, learning more about ancient Egypt’s fascinating and lengthy history. Begin with a visit to the Temples of Karnak, strolling along the Avenue of Sphinx to enter the complex. The Temples of Karnak make up the history of Thebes and consists of colossal sandstone columns transported 100 miles along the Nile river, panoramic friezes. Discover with your guide how the massive façade was constructed. Continue to Luxor Temple which was once joined to the Temples of Karnak by a 1.25-mile-long Avenue of Sphinx, a portion of which marks the entrance to the temple. The temple dates to approximately 1400 BC and is dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship rather than the Pharaohs, cult gods or deified versions of the king in death. During the Roman era, the temple and its surroundings served as a legionary fortress and acted as the home of the Roman government in the area.

Relax this evening on board the comfort of your Nile cruise and enjoy the evening of entertainment, including local Egyptian music.

Day 8: LUXOR to NILE It’s All Ancient History

• Half Day Valley of Kings & Queens with King Tut's Tomb - Private Tour

  
  

• Sail to Edfu via Esna

  
  

• Lunch on Board (Included)

  
  

• Cruise Entertainment

  
  

• Dinner on Board (Included)

Some of the most spectacular sites in all of Egypt can be found on the West Bank of the Nile, near Luxor. Meet with your private guide and driver to spend a half day exploring the West Bank of the Nile, home to the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. Start with a visit to the Valley of the Kings to explore the famous Tomb of Tutankhamun along with two other interesting tombs. King Tut became Pharaoh at the tender age of nine or ten, and the discovery of his nearly intact tomb in 1922 fascinated the world. For a period of nearly 500 years from the 16th to 11th century BC, tombs were constructed for the kings and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom (the Eighteenth to the Twentieth Dynasties of Ancient Egypt). Explore the recently renovated mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the second historically confirmed female Pharaoh. She is generally regarded by Egyptologists as one of the most successful Pharaohs, reigning longer than any other woman of an indigenous Egyptian dynasty, and remembered as the first great woman in history of whom we are informed. Next head to the nearby Valley of the Queens, where the wives of Pharaohs were buried during the 18th through 20th Dynasties. End the visit to the West Bank with a visit to the Colossi of Memnon, the only remaining monuments of the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III.

Today you'll sail to Edfu, via Esna.  Overnight at port in Edfu.

Relax this evening on board the comfort of your Nile cruise and enjoy the evening of entertainment, including local Egyptian music.

Day 9: NILE A Walk Through the Past

• 1/2 Day Edfu Horus Temple - Private Tour

  
  

• Lunch on Board (Included)

  
  

• Half Day Kom Ombo Temple Tour - Private Tour

  
  

• Dinner on Board (Included)

  
  

• Sail to Aswan

  
  

• Cruise Entertainment

Disembark from your Nile cruise and meet your private guide to explore the Temple of Horus in Edfu. Dedicated to Horus, the falcon god, the temple was built from 230 to 57 BC by Ptolemy III and his successors and is considered the best-preserved cult temple in Egypt because of its later construction date. Despite its late era origins, it reflects traditional pharaonic architecture, and the Temple’s inscribed building texts provides an excellent idea of how all the temples once looked, with details about its construction. It fell into disuse as a religious monument when the Roman Empire banned all non-Christian worship within the Empire in 391. Edfu is an impressive temple, and is the second largest in Egypt after Karnak Temple.

Meet with your private guide and disembark from your Nile cruise to explore on foot the Kom Ombo Temple, a unique Greco-Roman temple dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, the sun god. The Temple in Kom Ombo dates from about 180 BC, during a period known as the Ptolemaic era, and had some additions built on to it during Roman times. It stands right on the bank of the Nile between Edfu and Aswan. The temple is unusual in that it is a double temple, with one side dedicated to the god Haroesis and the other side to Sobek. The design is almost perfectly symmetrical, with two side-by-side sanctuaries and two parallel passageways leading through the outer parts of the temple. The right side is dedicated to Sobek-Re (the crocodile god combined with the sun god Re), along with his wife (a form of Hathor) and their son Khonsu-Hor. Sobek is associated with Seth, the enemy of Horus. In the myth of Horus and Osiris, Seth and his followers changed themselves into crocodiles to escape. The ancient Egyptians believed that by honoring the fearsome crocodile as a god, they would be safe from attacks. The left side is dedicated to Haroeris, the "Good Doctor" (a form of the falcon-headed god Horus the Elder) along with his consort Ta-Sent-Nefer, the "Good Sister" (another form of Hathor).

Continue cruising onward to Aswan, where you'll overnight at port this evening.

Relax this evening on board the comfort of your Nile cruise and enjoy the evening of entertainment, including local Egyptian music.

Day 10: ASWAN to NILE A Healthy Dose of History

• Kitchener Island & Aga Khan Tour by Felucca - Private

  
  

• Lunch (Included)

  
  

• Half Day High Dam, Temple of Philae & Obelisk Tour - Private Tour

  
  

• Dinner (Included)

  
  

• Cruise Entertainment

  
  

• Overnight at Port

Set sail on a Nile adventure and take in the scenery around Aswan aboard a traditional, non-motorized felucca. Gently sail past the small, oval-shaped El Nabatat Island, also known as Kitchener’s Island, and explore the lush Aswan Botanical Island that features trees from the 5 continents. View the Mausoleum of Aga Khan belonging to Sir Sultan Muhammed Shah as your felucca meanders past it before sailing back into Aswan.

The impressive Aswan High Dam was a marvel of engineering when it was constructed. Originally conceived to Egypt’s irrigation of farmland to mitigate against drought and famine in low-water years, and flooding in high-water years. Visit the dam with your private guide and spend a half day learning about Aswan. The dam displaced over 100,000 Nubians in Sudan and Egypt alike and was part of a major relocation project for archaeological sites under the UNESCO Nubia Campaign, including the Abu Simbel temples and Philae. Other sites were eventually flooded by Lake Nasser, the world’s largest artificial lake that was created by the Aswan High Dam. Then head to Philae and the Temple of Isis on Agilikia Island. Stop at the stone quarries to see the unfinished obelisk, the largest known ancient obelisk and a very good practical demonstration of the methods used by ancient craftsmen to create impressive moments. Marks from workers’ tools are still clearly visible on the bedrock.

Relax this evening on board the comfort of your Nile cruise and enjoy the evening of entertainment, including local Egyptian music.

Tonight you'll overnight at port in Aswan.

Day 11: ASWAN to CAIRO On the Road Again

• Disembarkation

  
  

• Private Airport Transfer

  
  

• Air - Aswan - Cairo [1.5 hrs] - Economy

  
  

• Private Airport Transfer

  
  

• Coptic Cairo (3.5 hrs) - Private Tour

  
  

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant

  
  

• Dinner (Not Included)

This morning you'll disembark from your ship and bid farewell to the crew.

A private transfer between the airport and hotel is provided. 

Board a flight in Aswan with direct service to Cairo. Approximate flight duration is one hour and 30 minutes.

Please note, luggage restrictions apply to this regional flight. 1) Maximum of one checked bag, weighing up to 50 lbs (23 kg) – Economy, 70 lbs (32 kgs) - Business; Checked baggage cannot be larger than 62 linear inches (158cm). 2) Guests can also bring a piece of carry-on luggage with a maximum weight of 17 lbs (8 kg). Passengers flying in Business Class may bring two pieces of carry-on luggage.  

Enjoy a private airport transfer accompanied by an English-speaking representative.

Cairo and the surrounding area around the Nile have been inhabited for millennia, and the heart of Coptic Cairo is still home to a host of ancient ruins telling the story the Persians and the early emergence of Christianity. With your private guide and driver, head to the remains of the Babylon Fortress, originally constructed by the Persians around the 6th century BC. These ruins are the city of Cairo’s oldest original structure – while the pyramids are older, they are in nearby Giza. Within the confines of the Fortress of Babylon are a number of important Coptic Christian Churches, including the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus Church, also known as Abu Serga, constructed on the spot where the Holy Family is reported to have rested at during the end of their journey into Egypt. The neighborhood is also home to a number of historic sites important to both Judaism and Islam. Among others, today you will visit the Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches in Egypt. Its nave is suspended over a passage and the church was the seat of the Coptic Pope for centuries after it was relocated from Alexandria following the Muslim conquest of Egypt. See the Church of Saint Barbara, a long-lasting example of ancient Coptic architecture commemorating a 4th century local saint. End the day with a visit to the Coptic Museum which houses the largest collection of Egyptian Christian artifacts in the world and important examples of Coptic art.

Relax and enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, including a choice of a small bottle of water, soft drink, tea or coffee.

Day 12: CAIRO Explore with an Expert

• Full Day Egyptian Museum Tour - Private Tour

  
  

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant

  
  

• Cairo by Night & Khan Khalili Bazaar (with Dinner) - Private Tour

  
  

• Dinner (Included)

The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, also known as the Egyptian Museum, is a veritable treasure trove of Ancient Egypt’s artifacts, with an extensive collection of more than 120,000 items split between its exhibits and storerooms. Delve into the historical background of Egypt on a full day private tour with your Egyptologist guide through the world’s largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities, admiring the treasures that are stored here for safekeeping. Tie together the grandeur of Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel with a collection of archaeological finds including statues, jewelry, amulets, sarcophagi, papyrus, ancient coins and the stories of famous Egyptologists. Marvel at the exquisite grandeur of the Mask of Tutankhamun and his coffin – Egypt’s most famous teenage king – although his mummy is still in its original tomb in the Valley of the Kings.

Relax and enjoy a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, including a choice of a small bottle of water, soft drink, tea or coffee.

As the day draws to a close, Cairo’s Khan Khalili Bazaar becomes a vibrant scene: a maze of shops lined with souvenirs and antiques, restaurants and coffee shops, workshops, mosques, and food vendors. The sights and sounds intermingle in an enchanting display over wafting aromas of freshly baked bread and roasting meats. Stroll down Al Moaz Street with your private guide, and marvel at the largest concentration of medieval architectural treasures from the Islamic world. End the evening with a memorable dinner at the Egyptian restaurant Naguib Mafouz, located in the heart of the bazaar. The restaurant is one of Cairo’s top-rated dining establishments. After dinner, return to your hotel by private vehicle.

Day 13: CAIRO Safe Travels!

• Private Airport Transfer

Enjoy a private airport transfer accompanied by an English-speaking representative.