Frank Pimentel
frank@realhawaiitours.com
909-702-4919

6-Day Holy Family Pathway: A Spiritual Journey Through Egypt’s Sacred Sites

Luxury journeys, curated experiences, and smooth travel operations — built for agents & travelers.

Duration

5 nights / person

Start

Cairo

End

Cairo

Group size

1 - 40 persons

Overview

Follow the footsteps of the Holy Family through Egypt’s sacred sites. Explore the serene monasteries of Wadi El-Natrun, including Anba Bishoy, St. Macarius, Virgin Mary (Syrian), and Baramos. Visit the Virgin Mary’s Tree in Matareya, the historic churches of Ain Shams and Maadi, and Old Cairo’s Abu Serga Church, where the Holy Family is believed to have sought refuge. This spiritual journey offers a unique blend of faith, history, and reflection, connecting you deeply with Egypt’s Christian heritage.

Short itinerary

Quick route overview
  • 1
    Day 1
    —

    Arrival in Cairo: A Gentle Beginning

    Arrive in Cairo, where you are warmly welcomed with a personalized meet-and-greet service at Cairo International Airport. After a smooth transfer to your hotel, take time to unwind and settle in. The rest of the day is left at leisure, allowing you to rest, acclimate, and quietly prepare for the meaningful spiritual journey that lies ahead.

  • 2
    Day 2
    —

    Maadi: A Sacred Crossing

    Journey to Maadi to visit the Church of the Virgin Mary, one of the most spiritually significant sites along the Holy Family’s path through Egypt. This revered church is believed to mark the very place where the Holy Family crossed the Nile on their journey into Upper Egypt. Here, tradition speaks of a miraculous event in which a page of the Bible emerged from the river, forever linking this site to Egypt’s unique place in biblical history.

    Within the church’s serene atmosphere, take time for quiet reflection while learning about the Holy Family’s passage and the deep spiritual meaning this location holds for generations of pilgrims. In the evening, unwind from the day’s spiritual exploration and enjoy an authentic Egyptian family dinner, a warm and heartfelt experience that offers a genuine connection to local life and hospitality.

     

  • 3
    Day 3
    —

    Matareya and Ain Shams: In the Footsteps of the Holy Family

    Travel to Matareya and Ain Shams, where tradition holds that the Holy Family found refuge beneath the shade of the Virgin Mary’s Tree. This revered site, steeped in devotion and history, is believed to have witnessed a moment of rest and protection during their journey through Egypt. Nearby, visit the Church of the Virgin Mary, built to commemorate the Holy Family’s presence in Matareya. Its graceful architecture and peaceful interior invite quiet reflection on the profound spiritual legacy of this sacred place.

    As you absorb the stillness and meaning of the site, reflect on Egypt’s enduring role as a land of refuge and blessing. Later, return to Cairo for an overnight stay, carrying with you the serenity and spiritual depth of the day’s experiences.

  • 4
    Day 4
    —

    Old Cairo: The Heart of Sacred Heritage

    Step into Old Cairo and explore its historic Religious Complex, one of the most spiritually significant areas in Egypt and a cornerstone of early Christian history. Visit the Church of the Virgin Mary in Haret Zuweila, a revered site that reflects the deep roots of Christianity in Egypt.

    Continue to the Church of Abu Serga (St. Sergius), built above the cave where tradition holds that the Holy Family sought refuge during their time in Cairo. Descend into this sacred space, now preserved within the church, and experience a powerful connection to the Holy Family’s journey and Egypt’s enduring role as a place of shelter and faith.

    The surrounding complex invites quiet reflection, offering insight into centuries of devotion and spiritual continuity. After this meaningful exploration, return to your hotel in Cairo for an overnight stay.

  • 5
    Day 5
    —

    Wadi El-Natrun: Desert Monasteries and Living Faith

    Journey into the Western Desert to Wadi El-Natrun, a timeless oasis that holds profound significance along the path of the Holy Family and stands as the cradle of Christian monasticism in Egypt. Set amid tranquil desert landscapes, this sacred valley is home to some of the world’s oldest continually inhabited monasteries.

    Visit the Monastery of Anba Bishoy, revered for its deep spiritual legacy and graceful architecture, before continuing to the Monastery of St. Macarius, renowned for its remarkable frescoes and centuries-old traditions of worship. Explore the Virgin Mary (Syrian) Monastery, a place of quiet devotion and historic importance, and the Monastery of Baramos, one of the earliest monastic foundations in the region, offering insight into the origins of Christian monastic life.

    Each monastery reveals a unique chapter of faith, resilience, and spiritual devotion, creating a deeply enriching and contemplative experience. In the late afternoon, return to Cairo for an overnight stay, carrying with you the stillness and sacred atmosphere of Egypt’s desert monasteries.

  • 6
    Day 6
    —

    Farewell to Cairo

    After breakfast, enjoy a smooth transfer to Cairo International Airport for your onward departure, concluding a deeply transformative journey following the footsteps of the Holy Family through Egypt—a land of refuge, faith, and timeless spiritual heritage.

Your Experience Map

Map

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Meals: No Meals

Arrival in Cairo: A Gentle Beginning

Arrive in Cairo, where you are warmly welcomed with a personalized meet-and-greet service at Cairo International Airport. After a smooth transfer to your hotel, take time to unwind and settle in. The rest of the day is left at leisure, allowing you to rest, acclimate, and quietly prepare for the meaningful spiritual journey that lies ahead.

Day 2

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Maadi: A Sacred Crossing

Journey to Maadi to visit the Church of the Virgin Mary, one of the most spiritually significant sites along the Holy Family’s path through Egypt. This revered church is believed to mark the very place where the Holy Family crossed the Nile on their journey into Upper Egypt. Here, tradition speaks of a miraculous event in which a page of the Bible emerged from the river, forever linking this site to Egypt’s unique place in biblical history.

Within the church’s serene atmosphere, take time for quiet reflection while learning about the Holy Family’s passage and the deep spiritual meaning this location holds for generations of pilgrims. In the evening, unwind from the day’s spiritual exploration and enjoy an authentic Egyptian family dinner, a warm and heartfelt experience that offers a genuine connection to local life and hospitality.

 

Day 3

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Matareya and Ain Shams: In the Footsteps of the Holy Family

Travel to Matareya and Ain Shams, where tradition holds that the Holy Family found refuge beneath the shade of the Virgin Mary’s Tree. This revered site, steeped in devotion and history, is believed to have witnessed a moment of rest and protection during their journey through Egypt. Nearby, visit the Church of the Virgin Mary, built to commemorate the Holy Family’s presence in Matareya. Its graceful architecture and peaceful interior invite quiet reflection on the profound spiritual legacy of this sacred place.

As you absorb the stillness and meaning of the site, reflect on Egypt’s enduring role as a land of refuge and blessing. Later, return to Cairo for an overnight stay, carrying with you the serenity and spiritual depth of the day’s experiences.

Day 4

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Old Cairo: The Heart of Sacred Heritage

Step into Old Cairo and explore its historic Religious Complex, one of the most spiritually significant areas in Egypt and a cornerstone of early Christian history. Visit the Church of the Virgin Mary in Haret Zuweila, a revered site that reflects the deep roots of Christianity in Egypt.

Continue to the Church of Abu Serga (St. Sergius), built above the cave where tradition holds that the Holy Family sought refuge during their time in Cairo. Descend into this sacred space, now preserved within the church, and experience a powerful connection to the Holy Family’s journey and Egypt’s enduring role as a place of shelter and faith.

The surrounding complex invites quiet reflection, offering insight into centuries of devotion and spiritual continuity. After this meaningful exploration, return to your hotel in Cairo for an overnight stay.

Day 5

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Wadi El-Natrun: Desert Monasteries and Living Faith

Journey into the Western Desert to Wadi El-Natrun, a timeless oasis that holds profound significance along the path of the Holy Family and stands as the cradle of Christian monasticism in Egypt. Set amid tranquil desert landscapes, this sacred valley is home to some of the world’s oldest continually inhabited monasteries.

Visit the Monastery of Anba Bishoy, revered for its deep spiritual legacy and graceful architecture, before continuing to the Monastery of St. Macarius, renowned for its remarkable frescoes and centuries-old traditions of worship. Explore the Virgin Mary (Syrian) Monastery, a place of quiet devotion and historic importance, and the Monastery of Baramos, one of the earliest monastic foundations in the region, offering insight into the origins of Christian monastic life.

Each monastery reveals a unique chapter of faith, resilience, and spiritual devotion, creating a deeply enriching and contemplative experience. In the late afternoon, return to Cairo for an overnight stay, carrying with you the stillness and sacred atmosphere of Egypt’s desert monasteries.

Day 6

Meals: Breakfast

Farewell to Cairo

After breakfast, enjoy a smooth transfer to Cairo International Airport for your onward departure, concluding a deeply transformative journey following the footsteps of the Holy Family through Egypt—a land of refuge, faith, and timeless spiritual heritage.

Inclusions

Luxury Accommodation:

  • Nights 1–6: Luxury hotel in Cairo on a bed & breakfast basis

Transfers:

  • Transfer to your Hotel from Cairo Airport
  • Transfer from your hotel to Wadi El-Natrun
  • Transfer from Wadi El-Natrun to your hotel in Cairo
  • Final transfer from your hotel to Cairo International Airport for departure

Sightseeing:

  • Day 2: Full-day visit to the Church of the Virgin Mary in Maadi, including professional guiding, lunch, entrance fees, and private A/C bus (Model 2024).

  • Day 3: Full-day visit to the Virgin Mary’s Tree in Matareya and the Church of the Virgin Mary in Ain Shams, including professional guiding, lunch, entrance fees, and private A/C bus (Model 2024).

  • Day 4: Full-day tour of Old Cairo and the Religious Complex, including the Church of Abu Serga (Church of St. Sergius), with professional guiding, lunch, entrance fees, and private A/C bus (Model 2024).

  • Day 5: Full-day tour to Wadi El-Natrun, visiting the Monastery of Anba Bishoy, Monastery of St. Macarius, Virgin Mary (Syrian) Monastery, and Monastery of Baramos, including professional guiding, lunch, entrance fees, and private A/C bus (Model 2024).

Not included:

  • Entry visa to Egypt (USD 30)

  • Tipping and personal expenses

  • International and domestic flights

  • Optional tours 

  • Fast Track airport services

  • Cancellation Insurance

FAQ

Egypt is very safe to visit and the police, tourist police, and army are in prominence wherever you go, giving you a feel of being in secure surroundings. Egypt prides itself on its high safety record for tourists and will do all it can to maintain this.

Egyptian Arabic is the official and most widely spoken language in Egypt. English is taught in schools and is considered a secondary language that is most commonly used for tourism purposes.

The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian Pound. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and upscale shops. There are also ATMs available at hotels and outside major banks dispensing local currency.

The best time to visit Egypt would be during the winter months, from October to April. The temperatures are mild and pleasant, although evenings can become quite cool. December through January are the peak tourist months so expect large crowds if travelling at this time. The best time to enjoy the beaches, without having to endure the large crowds of summer tourists, would be from March to May. Temperatures at this time are warm and tourist sites are not too crowded.

Egypt, being a predominantly Muslim country, is naturally conservative (not like the Gulf States or Saudi Arabia) but the average people are careful in what they wear. The dress code in Egypt for women is considered conservative by western standards and it is respectful to obey this code. For men it is not really an issue -- normal trousers and shirt or T-shirt are fine -- but in Cairo it would not be acceptable to wear short shorts or a tank tops/sleeveless tops. In the resorts like Sharm El Sheik, Hurghada, Sinai, etc. -- shorts are fine and it is very open and flexible. This also applies to ladies for the beach areas, but going into the market area in Hurghada, for example you may be more comfortable in trousers. Generally for men in Cairo or any city that is not on the sea side, remain with trousers (at tourist sites long loose shorts) or jeans and T-shirt , as even in Cairo, local people do not feel comfortable seeing a man in shorts. In Sea Side areas it's ok to walk in shorts, but once you enter a local restaurant or market, it's better to be more covered.

For the vast majority of travelers to Egypt, a valid passport and a travel visa is required. A visa can easily be purchased at the airport when you arrive. The cost for a single-entry, 30-day tourist visa is $25 (or equivalent in Euro), must be paid in cash (no credit or debit cards accepted), and your passport must be valid for at least six months. Citizens of all European countries, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, South Korea, Macedonia, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Serbia, Ukraine and United States can obtain a visa upon arrival. (Egypt does allow visa-free access for certain countries such as Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macao, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Malaysia.) Visas can also be purchased beforehand through Egypt’s Visa e-Portal: https://visa2egypt.gov.eg. Forty-one different nationalities are eligible to purchase the e-visa, however, it’s far easier to simply buy the visa at the airport.

As with most European and North American countries, tipping is graciously accepted in Egypt. A 10% tip at restaurants and to guides and drivers is standard. Unfortunately, at major tourist sites like the Pyramids of Giza or the tombs of the Valley of the Kings, touts aggressively hustle for tips by allowing you to take photos in areas where it’s clearly posted as prohibited (such as inside the tombs). Please refrain from perpetuating this problem by not paying to take pictures.

Egypt has a voltage supply of 220V and the plugs are the 2-round pin type that are common throughout Europe.

As noted previously, Egypt is a Muslim country, therefore alcohol is not readily available outside of tourist areas and western-style hotels/resorts. Beer and wine is available for purchase on all Dragonfly Kite Safaris.