Sailboats and Sinai

12 days - from $855

In Cairo we explore the pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx before taking the overnight train to Luxor, where we have ample time to check out the bazaar and the many great sights on the east bank. Crossing the Nile, we ride donkeys up to the Valley of the Kings and later we continue our journey to Aswan.

Aswan has an easygoing charm and we soon find ourselves slipping into its laid-back rhythm. While here we head out on a traditional felucca, sailing around the islands - and on the far bank we can ride camels to the Monastery of St. Simeon, which is always great fun! We then continue upriver to a nearby Nubian village where we spend the evening and enjoy some local specialities for dinner. The next day we return to Aswan town.

Back in Cairo, we have a free day to explore the fabulous Khan el Khalili Bazaar before heading across the Sinai to Dahab, where we can swim, snorkel, windsurf - or just chill in one of the many beachside bars. Our trip ends in Cairo.

Highlights

• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cairo
• The Valley of the Kings
• Luxor's open air museum
• Downtime and diving in Dahab

Itinerary:

Day 1: Cairo2: Cairo-Luxor3: Luxor4: Luxor-Aswan5: Aswan6: Aswan-Cairo7: Cairo8: Cairo-Dahab9-10: Dahab11: Dahab-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.

Please note that no entrance fees are included on this tour and are paid locally.  The following is included

• Sightseeing in Cairo - pyramids, Sphinx and Valley Temple of King Khafre (Chephren). Entrance fees are not included

• Traditional felucca sail and Nubean dinner in Aswan.

• Optional Donkey ride to explore the Valley of the Kings.

• Time to relax in Dahab on the Gulf of Aqaba.

• Free time to explore Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.

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

• Train from Luxor to Aswan.

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

no entrance fees included