Enjoy Christmas and NY Watching Wonders of Egypt in 9 days

Travelers considering a festive escape to Egypt will find this 9-day tour offers an intriguing combination of history, culture, and luxury. From witnessing the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza to cruising along the Nile in style, this experience promises more than just sightseeing — it’s about truly engaging with Egypt’s timeless allure.

What we particularly love about this tour is the seamless blend of private guided tours, luxurious Nile cruise, and the convenience of VIP train travel. Plus, the depth of the itinerary, covering both Cairo’s highlights and the temples and tombs of Luxor and Aswan, means you get a comprehensive snapshot of Egypt’s most famous attractions. The inclusion of expert guides ensures you won’t just see these sites but understand their stories—something that often elevates a good trip to an unforgettable one.

However, it’s worth noting that the price point, at over $2,200 per person, is on the higher side, especially for travelers unaccustomed to luxury or private tours. Also, the schedule’s tightness might leave some feeling a bit rushed—so if you prefer slow-paced, in-depth explorations, this might not be the best fit.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, those with a taste for luxury travel, and travelers who want a well-organized, hassle-free holiday with guaranteed access to Egypt’s must-see sites during the festive season.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: The tour covers accommodation, transfers, guided tours, entrance fees, and meals, providing a hassle-free holiday.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicles and VIP train tickets ensure a smooth, comfortable journey between destinations.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides accompany all tours, sharing insights and stories that add depth to each site visit.
• Luxury Nile Cruise: The cruise on Chateau Le Fyette offers an elegant way to explore Luxor and Aswan, with multiple excursions included.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: From the Great Pyramids to Karnak, Valley of the Kings, and Aswan’s High Dam, you will see Egypt’s most famed landmarks.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book now with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What the Tour Offers

Starting in Cairo: The Gateway to Egypt’s Wonders

Your journey begins at Cairo’s airport, where a dedicated tour manager greets you. The first night’s stay at the Remal Pyramids Inn sets a comfortable tone, close to Giza’s famed monuments. This initial hotel choice is convenient for early excursions and gives you a chance to settle in before the busy days ahead.

The Cairo Highlights and Pyramids

On Day 2, the tour kicks off with a private guide taking you to the Giza Plateau, the home of the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus. Visiting these ancient marvels is always a highlight — and with a guide, you’ll get insights beyond what you could learn solo, such as the theories about how they were built or the stories surrounding the Sphinx.

This guided tour also includes the Valley Temple, facing the iconic Sphinx, and a visit to the Saqqara Pyramid and Memphis, offering a broader context to Egypt’s early dynasties. The inclusion of a quality local restaurant for lunch ensures you experience authentic Egyptian flavors, a nice contrast to the historical sightseeing.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Egyptian Museum, which houses an invaluable collection of artifacts, including mummies, statues, and treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb. This helps contextualize the ancient world you’re exploring — definitely a must-see for those interested in Egypt’s royal history.

The day ends with a transfer to the Giza train station for your VIP train ride to Luxor, making the journey both comfortable and glamorous. While some reviews note that the train experience is smooth, others highlight the importance of being punctual, as the schedule is quite packed.

Luxor: The Heart of Ancient Thebes

Arriving in Luxor, you’ll be greeted by a representative and transferred to your Nile cruise. The ship, Chateau Le Fyette, offers a plush base for exploring the city’s ancient sites. After lunch on board, the afternoon is dedicated to visiting Karnak Temple — a complex of sanctuaries, pylons, and obelisks that showcase Egypt’s architectural prowess. The guided tour here reveals the significance of each monument, making it much more meaningful than just wandering around.

Later, you’ll visit Luxor Temple, a site that comes alive at night when illuminated, and is thought to be a cultural hub dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship. The guides emphasize storytelling, helping you see beyond the stonework and into the spiritual life of ancient Egypt.

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Exploring the Royal Necropolises: Valley of the Kings and Queen Hatshepsut

Day 4 promises a deep dive into Egypt’s burial practices with a visit to the Valley of the Kings, where 62 pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, found their final resting place. The guide will likely explain the significance of each tomb and share stories about the treasures and curses tied to these royal chambers.

Next, you’ll visit Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a striking terraced temple that exemplifies Egypt’s architectural innovation. The tour includes the Colossi of Memnon, large stone statues that have greeted visitors for centuries.

Temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo

The Nile cruise continues with visits to Edfu Temple, a remarkably well-preserved Ptolemaic temple dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. The guided tour offers insights into the religious practices of the time, and you’ll appreciate the detailed hieroglyphs and the temple’s symmetry.

Sailing to Kom Ombo, you’ll see the unique Temple of Sobek, shared by two gods — Sobek and Horus. The ship’s onboard lunch gives you time to relax before moving on to Aswan.

The Wonders of Aswan

In Aswan, the day begins with visits to the High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering that changed Egypt’s landscape and water management. You’ll also see the Obelisk of Hatshepsut, a giant monolithic stone that offers insights into ancient craftsmanship.

The guides explain the significance of these sites, helping you appreciate their roles in Egyptian society and religion. Dinner and overnight stay on the cruise allow you to unwind with views of the Nile at night.

Return to Cairo and Final Day

After breakfast on Day 7, you’ll disembark and transfer to the Aswan train station for your VIP train ride back to Cairo, completing the loop of Egypt’s most iconic sights. Arriving back in Cairo, you’ll stay at the Remal Pyramids Inn again, giving you time to relax or explore before your departure.

The final day is reserved for breakfast and transfer to Cairo International Airport, wrapping up your memorable holiday.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

Value for the Price: The comprehensive nature of this trip, including private guides, all sightseeing, entrance fees, luxury transportation, and nights on a Nile cruise, makes it a solid investment. Many travelers mention that the guides are very knowledgeable, often going beyond the basics to share stories and legends that deepen the experience.

Expert Guides Make a Difference: Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and enthusiasm. They not only provide historical context but also answer questions in detail, making each site visit more engaging. This is especially valuable at places like the Valley of the Kings, where understanding the symbolism enhances appreciation.

Luxury and Comfort: The VIP train and the elegant Nile cruise are big selling points. They elevate what could be a busy touring schedule into a more relaxing journey, with options to enjoy good food, comfortable beds, and scenic views.

Authentic Experiences: Visiting both famous monuments and lesser-known sites like Memphis and the Hanging Church ensures you get a well-rounded perspective on Egypt. The inclusion of local restaurants and boutique hotels adds authenticity to the experience.

Flexible Booking Options: The ability to reserve without upfront payment and cancel with a full refund up to 24 hours before adds peace of mind, especially during uncertain times.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Ideal for travelers who want a mix of culture, history, and comfort, and don’t mind a packed schedule. It’s perfect for those celebrating Christmas or New Year in a destination that offers both festive cheer and ancient marvels. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or extensive in-depth exploration, you might find this tour a little rushed. However, if your goal is to see Egypt’s highlights with expert guidance and a touch of luxury, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Egypt?
Yes, especially since it includes guided tours, which help new visitors navigate complex sites with ease.

Are all the sites included in the price?
Yes, entrance fees to all listed sites are covered, along with transportation and guides.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at the Remal Pyramids Inn in Cairo and on the Chateau Le Fyette Nile Cruise, both offering comfortable, well-rated amenities.

Can I book the cruise or hotel separately if they’re unavailable?
Yes, the tour provider may substitute similar category accommodations or cruises if necessary.

What are the meal options?
Meals are included as per the itinerary, with breakfast daily, plus lunches and dinners on the cruise.

How flexible is the schedule?
The order of days may change based on cruise sailing dates, but all major sites are included.

Are private guides available throughout?
Yes, all sightseeing tours on land and on the cruise are private, ensuring personalized attention.

Is tipping included?
Tipping is not included; travelers are encouraged to tip guides and staff as a sign of appreciation.

What should I pack?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and modest clothing for religious sites are recommended.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day Egypt tour offers a compelling package for those eager to combine history, culture, and comfort during the festive season. The carefully curated itinerary ensures you see Egypt’s most iconic sights with insightful guides, all while enjoying luxurious transportation and accommodations. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a well-organized, enriching holiday that balances exploration with relaxation.

While the cost may seem steep, the quality of guides, the inclusion of private tours, and the experience of cruising the Nile in style justify the price for many. Whether it’s your first trip to Egypt or a repeat visit, this tour provides a memorable way to celebrate the holidays amid ancient wonders.

If you’re craving a holiday that mixes festive cheer with awe-inspiring sights, this tour might just be your best bet for a holiday season to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: