Nile & Red Sea Journey

12 days - from $1050

Egypt is frequently referred to as the 'gift' of the Nile, for without this mighty river it would be a harsh and desolate wilderness. From the highlands of Ethiopia, and The Sudan, it flows through the country like a fertile green ribbon, bringing life to the desert and supporting an ever-burgeoning population. Since ancient times it has been Egypt's lifeline, transporting people and their goods on a lively assortment of ships, boats and barges.

These days the boats are carrying a different cargo, with many travellers enjoying a riverboat cruise between Aswan and Luxor. It's a great way to observe everyday life in the Nile Valley, and also allows the opportunity to explore the ancient temples at Komombo and Edfu.

Our journey begins in Cairo, with a visit to the Egyptian Museum, ancient pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, before travelling south to Aswan where we visit the fabulous temples at Abu Simbel before boarding our Nile riverboat for a magical cruise downriver to Luxor. Our boat has a great on-board atmosphere, with comfortable airconditioned cabins - each with their own private shower and toilet. In addition there is a cosy restaurant, where all meals are served, and a rooftop bar. The spacious top deck is ideal for sunbathing and relaxing, with excellent views of the river.

The final treat is a couple of days of R&R at Hurghada, on the balmy Red Sea coast, where we enjoy a full day out on the reef.

All in all, this itinerary offers a great mixture of activity, culture and fun at a very relaxed pace.

Highlights

• The Valley of the Kings
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cairo
• World-leading snorkelling and scuba diving on the Red Sea
• Nubean Aswan
• Nile cruise
• Edfu and Komombo temples
• Luxor's open air museum
• Abu Simbel

Itinerary:

Day 1: Cairo2: Cairo3: Cairo-Aswan4: Aswan5: Abu Simbel-Nile Cruise6 & 7: Nile Cruise8: Luxor9: Luxor-Red Sea10: Red Sea11: Red Sea-Cairo12: Cairo

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included:

• Gecko’s expert English-speaking local tour guide throughout the tour.

• Sightseeing (including entrance fees where relevant): Cairo - Egyptian Museum, pyramids, Sphinx and Valley Temple of King Khafre (Chephren); Edfu; and Komombo.

• 3 nights on Gecko’s Nile riverboat, cruising from Aswan to Luxor. Accommodation in comfortable air-conditioned cabins with private facilities.

• Tour of Abu Simbel.

• Horse-drawn carriage ride to explore the temple complex at Karnak.

• Donkey ride to explore the Valley of the Kings.

• Full-day boat trip on the Red Sea.

• Felucca cruise in Aswan.

• Overnight sleeper train from Cairo to Aswan. Accommodation in an air-conditioned carriage with large 45-degree reclining seats.

• Free time to explore Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and the resort town of Hurghada.

International flights, arrival & departure transfers, visas, airport taxes, additional meals, drinks, optional sightseeing tours, insurance, tips and items of a personal nature.