Egypt, Up Close: A Journey Through Time
Oct 17-25, 2026
Walk in the footsteps of pharaohs, sail the legendary Nile, and witness some of the most astonishing monuments ever built by humankind. Egypt offers a rare blend of awe-inspiring history, vibrant modern life, and warm hospitality. Experience it all—up close, unhurried, as part of a small group with a local guide and Egyptologist who will help you truly understand what you’re seeing.
The weather in October is ideal for walking tours around the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the newly-opened Grand Egyptian Museum, a world-class showcase of Egypt’s ancient treasures. Wander through Cairo, where mosques, markets and narrow alleys reveal the city’s soul, and explore early Christian sites steeped in history.
Then travel to Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum. Venture further into the Valley of the Kings and explore from above in a hot air balloon.
We’ll take a Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan and enjoy the calm waters, golden sunsets, and incredible temples that line the journey.
This is an intimate journey through Ancient Egypt you won’t want to miss.
Here’s the itinerary (subject to change if weather or conditions warrant):
Day 1 (Oct 17): Arrival by 3pm
- Pick up from the Cairo airport where we’ll have an assistant help with the Visa process and drive you to your hotel. We’ll enjoy a group dinner this night and relax with our epic view of the pyramids.
Day 2 (Oct 18): Saqqara and Giza pyramids
We will enjoy an easy day starting to understand the Egyptian history with a Giza Day Tour where we’ll witness Giza’s Timeless Wonders.
At 8:00 am after the breakfast on the rooftop of the hotel we’ll start our adventure
*📍Memphis**
Step back in time at the ancient capital of Egypt, now transformed into an open-air museum. Feel like a true explorer as you stand beneath the towering statues of Ramses II, one of history’s most legendary pharaohs. Don’t forget to capture the moment beside the majestic Sphinx of Memphis!
Then to *📍Sakkara**
Embark on a journey to the birthplace of pyramids at Sakkara. Marvel at the Step Pyramid of King Djoser, the world’s first pyramid, and uncover the mysteries of the Unas Pyramid, where the first-ever ancient inscriptions adorn the walls. Explore the intriguing and feel the ancient history come alive around you.
*Lunch will be included in the day and we will have shopping time
Day 3 (Oct 19-23):
We will begin our four-night, five-day Nile cruise
– *Flight from Cairo to Luxor*: Start your journey with a quick one-hour flight from Cairo to the heart of ancient Egypt: Luxor. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed and assisted at Luxor airport. From there, you’ll be escorted to your luxurious Nile Cruise for a smooth check-in or dive straight into your city tour to explore the captivating East Bank.
*Explore:*
– *Luxor Temple*: A magnificent site that comes alive with the history and grandeur of the Pharaohs.
– *Karnak Temple*: Wander through the awe-inspiring columns and halls of this vast temple complex, dedicated to the god Amun.
*Meals*: Lunch, Dinner
*Overnight*: Luxor
Day 4 (Oct 20):
West Bank Wonders and Sailing to Edfu
– *Optional Hot-Air Balloon Ride*: Begin your day early with a magical hot-air balloon ride over Luxor at sunrise. This optional experience offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its ancient sites.
*Morning Tour:*
– *Valley of the Kings*: Explore the hidden tombs of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs.
– *Hatshepsut Temple*: Discover the grandeur of Egypt’s first female pharaoh at her majestic temple.
– *Colossi of Memnon*: Stand in awe of these towering statues that have guarded the Theban Necropolis for millennia.
*Afternoon Sailing*: Set sail around noon, gliding along the Nile towards Edfu. Relax and enjoy the serene landscapes as your floating hotel takes you to your next adventure.
*Meals*: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Overnight*: Edfu
Day 5 (Oct 21):
We go from Edfu to Kom Ombo
– *Horus Temple in Edfu*: Start your day with a short, charming horse carriage ride to the Horus Temple, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon god.
*Nile Cruise Entertainment*: After your temple visit, enjoy the vibrant entertainment on board as you sail toward Kom Ombo.
*Kom Ombo Temple*: Arrive at this unique temple, shared by the gods Sobek and Horus, just in time for a stunning sunset. The atmospheric lighting and the temple’s riverside location make this an unforgettable experience.
*Continued Sailing*: Sail through the night towards Aswan, taking in the beauty of the Nile under the stars.
*Meals*: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Overnight*: Aswan
Day 6 (Oct 22):
Discover Aswan
– *Optional Excursions*: Start your day with an optional early morning tour to the grand temples of Abu Simbel, dedicated to Ramses II and his queen Nefertari, or immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Nubian Village.
*Options to Explore:*
– *Abu Simbel*: If chosen, this excursion offers a deep dive into the legacy of Ramses II, where colossal statues and intricate carvings celebrate his reign.
– *Nubian Village*: Alternatively, explore the daily life and rich traditions of the Nubian people.
*Sailing to Villages*: Enjoy more picturesque sailing as you glide toward some of the charming villages along the Nile.
*Meals*: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Overnight*: Aswan
Day 7 (Oct 23):
Aswan Highlights and Return to Cairo
– *Check-Out and Final Aswan Tour*: After breakfast, check out from your cruise, then embark on a tour of Aswan’s most significant sites.
*Visit:*
– *High Dam*: Witness the engineering marvel that transformed the Nile and created Lake Nasser.
– *Unfinished Obelisk*: See the massive obelisk that remains incomplete, offering insight into ancient stone-carving techniques.
– *Philae Island*: Explore the enchanting Temple of Isis, beautifully located on Philae Island, and uncover its fascinating history.
*Leisure Time*: Before your departure, take some time to relax, freshen up, or enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Aswan’s delightful restaurants.
*Return Flight*: Depending on your flight time, you’ll arrive in Cairo in the evening, ready to make your connection for your journey home.
*Meals*: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 (Oct 24): PYRAMID + GEM
After breakfast head out on an adventure to “walk like an Egyptian”
**Giza**
Prepare to be amazed as you visit the iconic Giza Pyramids, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Gaze in awe at the grandeur of these ancient structures and the timeless Sphinx. Top it off with a thrilling camel ride around these magnificent landmarks, making memories that will last a lifetime.
-Next we head to the brand new Grand Egyptian Museum, complete with the King Tut Mask
We’ll have time for shopping and lunch
Day 9 (Oct 25):
We’ll head to the Civilization Museum
See the Mummy Room
Old Cairo ( and the old church )
Old Mosque
Local lunch
We will be back to the hotel by 4pm and you are able to book flights home starting at 7pm. (If you need another day for better flight options, we can arrange an extra night hotel stay at your request).
Day 8 (Oct 25): our final day
Drive to Luxor Airport to fly to Cairo Airport to catch your international flight
Trip Pricing: $5497 (single room, 8 nights/9 days)
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 secures your spot.
Travel Insurance is required (unless you sign a waiver)
You can pay in full or choose a payment plan.
Included:
4 nights in 5-star hotels in Cairo and Aswa (including breakfast)
-3 nights on board 5-star Deluxe Cruise Ship (including all meals)
Domestic flights during our trip (not before/after)
All transportation to all the mentioned sites in the itinerary using private air-conditioned minivan
Entry visa
Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites in the itinerary
Expert guide and Egyptologist
Priceless memories you’ll never forget
Not Included:
Meals not mentioned above, alcohol, and flight(s) to/from the airport (breakfast is included most mornings), gratuity tip
Email us ASAP at desmillertravel@gmail.com to reserve your spot!
Please note: This trip includes a fair amount of walking—often on uneven surfaces and up and down stairs, sometimes without elevators or escalators. To fully enjoy the experience, participants should be in good physical health, able to walk at a moderate pace for extended periods, and comfortably manage stairs and inclines. If you have any concerns about mobility or endurance, please reach out—we’re happy to help assess if this trip is a good fit.