Treasures Of The Nile

10 days - from $895

A well-known archaeologist once said that no matter where you stick a spade in Egypt, you'd have a fair chance of finding ancient artefacts! In fact, there’s probably no other country in the world that boasts such a wealth of ancient antiquities - the focal point of this particular trip.

We spend two full days in Cairo, exploring a number of monuments dating back to the Old Kingdom. Principal among these are the superb tombs at Saqqara, a blueprint of life and times during this period.

Arriving in Aswan we visit the celebrated Temple of Ramses II, at Abu Simbel, and the exquisite Temple of Isis, at Philae, 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.

Arriving in Luxor we visit the Valley of the Kings, the beautiful Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and explore the colossal temple complex at Karnak before making our way back to Cairo.

For those seeking a deeper appreciation of Ancient Egypt, this is a fascinating journey of discovery.

Highlights

• Edfu and Komombo temples
• Cairo Museum
• Nile cruise
• Luxor's open air museum
• Abu Simbel
• UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cairo
• Nubean Aswan
• The Valley of the Kings

Itinerary:

Day 1: Cairo2: Cairo3: Cairo-Aswan4: Philae Temple, Aswan5: Abu Simbel-Nile Cruise6-7: Nile Cruise8: Luxor-Cairo9: Cairo10: 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 applicable): Cairo's pyramids, Sphinx, Valley Temple of King Chephren, Egyptian Museum and Memphis; Temple of Isis at Philae; Abu Simbel; Temple of Sobek at Komombo; and Temple of Horus at Edfu.

• 3 night Nile River cruise aboard Gecko's comfortable riverboat.

• Traditional felucca sailboat cruise in Aswan.

• Horse-drawn carriage ride to Karnak.

• Donkey ride to explore the Valley of the Kings.

• 2 nights on an overnight train sleeping in an air-conditioned carriage with comfortable seats (similar to business class seats on a plane) that recline back about 45 degrees. Toilet facilities located at the end of the carriage. Breakfast is delivered to us when we arrive in the morning.

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