Frank Pimentel

frank@realhawaiitours.com

909-702-4919


Best of Egypt & Hurgada Extension included ( RBT)


11 nights
Private Experience
Start City : Cairo
End City : Cairo

Highlights:

Cairo Visits:

  • GEM (Grand Egyptian Museum, if available)
  • Civilization Museum 
  • Pyramids  
  • Sphinx
  • Memphis 
  • Sakkara

Aswan Sightseeing:

  • Edfu Temple
  • Kom ombu Temple 
  • Aswan High Dam
  • Philae Temple
  • Nubian Village

 

Luxor Sightseeing:

  • Karnak Temple
  • Luxor Temple
  • New Sphinx avenue 
  • Hatshepsut Temple
  • Valley of Kings 
  • Memnon 
  • Tombs of Rameses V & VI
  • King Tut’s Tomb

 

Hurgada Resort

 

 

Your Experience

  • Day 1

    Nov 01 – Arrival at Cairo

    • Upon landing at Cairo International Airport, our esteemed guests are welcomed with our exclusive “meet and greet” service. Following this warm reception, we arrange seamless transportation to your designated hotel for check-in, ensuring a smooth start to their Egyptian tour.


    Meals: No Meals
    View Four Seasons Cairo at The First Residence gallery


  • Day 2

    Nov 02 – Cairo Tour (Exploring the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum)

    • Our day begins with a visit to the only remaining monument of the ancient world’s Seven Wonders, the majestic Great Pyramid of Khufu. We’ll then explore the Pyramids of Khafra and Menkaura, followed by the well-preserved Valley Temple of Khafra and the enigmatic Great Sphinx.
    • After exploring these incredible structures, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a charming restaurant. Then, we will proceed to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the largest archaeological museum in the world. This impressive new building showcases 100,000 artifacts from various periods of Egypt’s illustrious past, including 20,000 items that will be on public display for the first time, featuring the complete collection of King Tutankhamun.
    • End the Day with an Egyptian family dinner


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


  • Day 3

    Nov 03 – Memphis, Sakkara, and National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC):

    • Will start our day visit Memphis, founded around 3,100 BC, is the legendary city of Menes, the King who united Upper and Lower Egypt. Early on, Memphis was more likely a fortress from which Menes controlled the land and water routes between Upper Egypt and the Delta. Having probably originated in Upper Egypt, from Memphis he could control the conquered people of Lower Egypt. However, by the Third Dynasty, the building at Saqqara suggests that Memphis had become a sizable city.
    • Proceed to the Sakkara site, Sakkara is one section of the great necropolis of Memphis, the Old Kingdom capital, and the kings of the 1st Dynasty as well as that of the 2nd Dynasty. are mostly buried in this section of the Memphis necropolis. It has been of constant interest to Egyptologists. Three major discoveries have recently been made at Sakkara, including a prime minister’s tomb, a queen pyramid, and the tomb of the son of a dynasty-founding king. Each discovery has a fascinating story, with many adventures for the archaeologists as they revealed the secrets of the past.
       
    • After lunch at a local restaurant (Abu Shakra) continue the day with a visit to the first authentic museum of civilization in Egypt. The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) which boasts more than 50,000 artifacts which dates from the dawn of civilizations to the present day.


    Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.


  • Day 4

    Nov 04 – Travel to Aswan and The Nubian Village

    • Start your day early by arriving at Cairo International Airport to catch a flight to Aswan. Once you arrive in Aswan, you’ll head directly to the Nubian Village, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Nubian lunch. Spanning about 3-4 hours, the visit will allow you to explore the three charming Nubian villages, nestled among picturesque palm trees at the foot of the Elephantine Islands.
    • Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and learn about their way of life and unique means of livelihood. Historically, these villages were of immense importance during the Pharaonic era as a rich source of gold. The Nubians, the ancient tribes that settled in this region, have maintained a lifestyle that contrasts sharply with that of their Arab neighbors, embodying a blend of ancient customs in a modern world.
    • If available, you might even get to sample their delicious, freshly baked bread, observe their intricate handicrafts, and admire the unique architecture of their colorful ceramic houses. The bright hues and African-inspired designs of these homes stand out. Don’t miss the chance to see the baby crocodiles that the Nubians care for until they are released into Lake Nasser as they grow. Henna tattoos are also available for an extra cost.
       
    • Lastly go back to your hotel for overstay


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
    View Nozol Boutique Hotel gallery


  • Day 5

    Nov 05   Aswan & Abu - Simbel Temple  Day Tour

    The Magnificent Abu - Simbel Temple

    • Your day begins with an unforgettable visit to the Abu Simbel Temple, one of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks. Carved into a mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, this temple is a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering and artistry. The colossal statues of Ramses II at the entrance, standing 20 meters tall, are a breathtaking sight. Inside, the temple is adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphs depicting Ramses II’s victories and his divine connection to the gods.The entire complex was relocated in the 1960s to save it from being submerged by Lake Nasser, a remarkable feat of modern engineering.

    Explore the PhilaeTemple and the Aswan High Dam

    • Next, take a short boat ride to Agilkia Island, home to the stunning Philae Temple. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this temple dates back to around 380 BC and was relocated to its current location to save it from flooding caused by the Aswan High Dam. Wander through its grand halls adorned with intricate hieroglyphs and carvings, and learn about the myths of Isis, Osiris, and Horus. The temple’s serene setting against the Nile makes it a perfect spot for photos and reflection.
    • Aswan High Dam, a monumental engineering achievement built between 1960 and 1970. This massive structure, stretching 3,830 meters long and 111 meters tall, was created to control the Nile’s flooding, provide water for irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power. From the top of the dam, enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Nasser, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world, and learn about its impact on Egypt’s environment and economy at the onsite exhibition.


    Meals: Breakfast, lunch


  • Day 6

    Nov 06 – Kom Ombo Temple and Edfu Temple Transfere to Luxor
     

    • Early morning Transfere to Kom Ombo and visit the Kom Ombo Temple.
    • Guided tour of Kom Ombo Temple:
      Begin your day with an early Trasnfere to Kom Ombo, located about 28 miles north of Aswan, where you’ll visit the unique Temple of Kom Ombo, also known as the Ptolemaic Temple of Sobek and Haroeris. Perched on a high dune overlooking the Nile, this temple was initially constructed by Ptolemy VI Philometor in the early second century BC. Ptolemy XIII later added the outer and inner hypostyle halls. The outer enclosure wall and parts of the courtyard, built by Augustus after 30 BC, have mostly disappeared over time. Additionally, the area around the Kom-Ombo village is home to tombs dating back to the Old Kingdom.
    • Move to Edfu.
    • Guided tour of Edfu Temple:
      Continue your journey as you sail to Edfu, where you’ll visit the Edfu Temple, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. This temple was constructed over the reigns of six different Ptolemaic rulers. The reliefs on the outer walls provide extensive information about the temple’s construction, which began in 237 BC under Ptolemy III Euergetes I and concluded in 57 BC. The construction was temporarily halted for about 20 years due to the unrest during the reigns of Ptolemy IV and Ptolemy V Epiphanes. Edfu Temple is not only the best-preserved ancient temple in Egypt but also the second-largest, following the Karnak Temple. It is believed that this site marks the location of the legendary battle between Horus and Seth, with the current temple being the last in a series of temples built here.
       
    • Complete your Jounrey by heading to Luxor and overnight at your Hotel.


    Meals: Breakfast, lunch


  • Day 7

    Nov 07 –  Transfere to Luxor / Luxor East Bank, Optional Sound and Light Show

    • After enjoying breakfast, we will begin our tour of the East Bank of Luxor, starting with a visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple. Following this, we will proceed to explore the Temple of Luxor, another breathtaking landmark.
    • In the evening, you will have the option to attend the captivating Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple.


    Meals: Breakfast


  • Day 8

    Nov 08 – Luxor West Bank, Transfer to Hotel for Overnight Stay

    • Start the day early with an exhilarating hot air balloon ride over the West Bank of Luxor, providing a breathtaking view of the ancient sites. 
    • Next, we will visit the Luxor West Bank necropolis, starting with the Valley of the Kings, where we’ll explore the unique tombs of Rameses V & VI, as well as the famous King Tutankhamun’s Tomb. Next, we will visit the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, followed by the iconic Colossi of Memnon.


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch


  • Day 9

    Nov 09 - A Change of Scenery

    • A private transfer from Luxor to Hurghada is provided. Approximate travel time is four hours and 30 minutes.
    • This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace or relax at your hotel.


    Meals: Breakfast


  • Day 10

    Nov 10 - Relax and Recharge

    • Relax in the serene luxurious setting of Hurghada, where you can enjoy the breathtaking underwater scenery in the warm waters of the Red Sea. Sign up for a wide range of optional activities at your resort (not included in the tour cost and payable directly to the hotel) such as deep sea fishing, thrilling boat excursions, scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, or even sea canoeing.


    Meals: Breakfast


  • Day 11

    Nov 11 - Relax and Recharge

    • Relax in the serene luxurious setting of Hurghada, where you can enjoy the breathtaking underwater scenery in the warm waters of the Red Sea. Sign up for a wide range of optional activities at your resort (not included in the tour cost and payable directly to the hotel) such as deep sea fishing, thrilling boat excursions, scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, or even sea canoeing.


    Meals: Breakfast


  • Day 12

    Finale Departure and Goodbye

    • after having an early breakfast, you will be transfered to Hurgada airport to fly to Cairo INternational Airport for finall departure
    • Transfer to Cairo International Airport for


    Meals: Breakfast


Luxury Accommodation:

  • Nov 01 - 04: Four Seasons first residence – Pyramids or Nile View Room – non-smoking rooms – on bed and breakfast.
  • Nov 04 - 06: Bob Marley Guest house in Aswan – non-smoking rooms – on bed and breakfast.
  • Nov 06 - 09:Bob Marley House Sherief Hotel Luxor non-smoking rooms – on bed and breakfast.
  • Nov 09 - 11: Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh – non-smoking rooms – on bed and breakfast.

Transfers:

  • Nov 01: Arrival transfer to your Hotel from Cairo Airport
  • Nov 04: Transfer from your hotel to Cairo airport to fly to Aswan
  • Nov 04: Transfer from  from Aswan Airport to your Hotel
  • Nov 07: Transfer From your Hotel in Aswan to Luxor 
  • Nov 09: Transfer From your hotel in Luxor to Hurghada Resort
  • Nov 11: Transfer from Hurghada Resort to Hurghada Airport

Free Items:

  • Camel ride
  • Egyptian Family dinner  

Not included:

  • Visa $25
  • Tipping
  • International flights
  • any option tours

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.