14 days / 13 nights

Private, Fully Guided by an English Speaking Egyptian Tour Guide and Tour Leader + 2 of our Fabulous BB Hosts

5-star Accommodations

From the Great Pyramids to the Nile’s Wonders, Experience Egypt Like Never Before

Step into a world of ancient wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled luxury as you embark on a 14-day journey through Egypt’s most iconic destinations. From the legendary Great Pyramids of Giza to the tranquil waters of the Nile, this immersive adventure will transport you through the heart of history. With private access to world-famous sites, a 5-star Nile cruise, and stays in opulent hotels, this is more than a vacation—it’s the journey of a lifetime.

Overall Trip Highlight

• The Great Pyramid of Giza, the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing. Six of the seven are gone. This one has been here for four and a half thousand years, and we do not just look at it. Entry into the Great Pyramid is a separate, limited ticket that a great many Egypt itineraries stop short of. Ours includes it.
• Private access to the Giza Plateau and the Great Sphinx. Nearly everyone meets the pyramids in a crowd, at midday, in a line. We are up on the plateau ahead of the general opening, with our own Egyptologist and room to stand still.
• Tutankhamun’s gold funerary mask at the Grand Egyptian Museum. The complete contents of his tomb are displayed together, at Giza, in the largest archaeological museum in the world. For most of us this is the object we have known about since we were children and never expected to be in a room with.
• Wadi El Hitan in the Fayoum desert. Whale skeletons lying uncovered in the sand, forty million years after this desert was the floor of a sea. We go out by four-wheel drive because there is no road to it.
• A five-star Nile ship, Luxor to Aswan, for seven nights. We unpack once for a week. The temples of the Nile are on the riverbank, the ship stops at them, and after each one we are back in our own cabin rather than in a coach looking for the next hotel.
• The Valley of the Kings. The tombs are cut down into the rock and painted floor to ceiling, and three thousand years on the color is still there. Tutankhamun’s tomb is among them.
• A sunrise hot air balloon over Luxor. An optional dawn start, weather permitting, and the only way to see the whole of it at once: the Valley of the Kings, the mortuary temples, the green edge of the farmland and the desert behind it, with the sun coming up on the Nile.
• Kom Ombo and the Crocodile Museum. A temple built entirely double, two of everything, for two gods who had to share it. The mummified crocodiles pulled out of the river are in the museum next door.
• A camel ride through the dunes at Aswan. Optional, and the one photograph from Egypt that everybody at home asks to see. Getting up onto a camel takes a small act of nerve and a steady hand from the guide, and both of those are available.
• The same two Egyptian guides and the same two Beatrice Bradley hostesses for all fourteen days. No handing off to a stranger in a new city, and two hostesses means the group can split when half of us want to keep walking and half of us are ready to sit down.

Day 1: Welcome to Egypt!

You did it! You landed in Egypt – You’ll see our smiling face at the airport waiting for you.

Our representative is waiting inside Cairo International before passport control. Visa, luggage, the walk to the car: handled. Then it is a short drive to Giza, where the Great Pyramid is standing outside the window

The rest of the afternoon is ours to sleep off the flight, sit in the gardens, or swim. Dinner is at the hotel that evening, which is where the eighteen of us meet each other for the first time. Nobody has to find a restaurant, get in a taxi, or dress for anything. The first evening happens about ninety seconds from our own rooms, which is exactly how we want it after a transatlantic flight.

Highlights

• Met inside Cairo International before passport control, You’ll see us at the airport waiting for you
• Luxury accommodations, the 1869 hunting-lodge-turned-hotel in forty acres of gardens at the foot of the Great Pyramid.
• A welcome dinner at the hotel, the first evening with our fellow travelers, our hostesses and both of our Egyptian guides.
• An afternoon with nothing scheduled, in the gardens or by the pool, so the first real day starts rested rather than jet-lagged.

Day Two: Saqqara and Dahshur, Where the Pyramid Was Invented

Before there was a Great Pyramid, somebody had to have the idea.

Everyone knows the pyramids at Giza. Almost nobody knows that they are the finished product, and that the drafts are twenty miles down the road.

We start at Saqqara, the burial ground of the old capital of Memphis, and the Step Pyramid of King Djoser. It is the oldest large stone building in the world, six stacked terraces raised around 2650 BC by an architect named Imhotep who did something nobody had done before: he built for eternity in stone rather than mud brick. Everything at Giza descends from this. We walk the Unas Pyramid Complex, whose inner walls carry the Pyramid Texts, the oldest religious writing ever found, carved there so a dead king could read the instructions for the afterlife. Then into the Tomb of Kagemni, a vizier’s tomb whose walls are covered in scenes of ordinary life four thousand years ago: men fishing, cattle being force-fed, a hippopotamus hunt.

Lunch is at a local restaurant, and then we drive on to Dahshur, which most tour buses skip. Here stand the two pyramids of Sneferu, father of Khufu. The Bent Pyramid changes angle halfway up because the builders realized mid-construction that it was going to collapse. Then, having learned, they built the Red Pyramid: the first true smooth-sided pyramid ever completed, and one of the very few that can still be entered. We go inside.

Highlights

• The Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara, the oldest large stone structure on earth and the building every pyramid that followed was copied from.
• The Unas Pyramid Complex, where the Pyramid Texts, the oldest religious writings ever discovered, are carved into the chamber walls.
• The Tomb of Kagemni, one of the best-preserved Old Kingdom tombs, with wall carvings of daily life so detailed the individual fish are identifiable.
• The Bent Pyramid at Dahshur, which visibly changes angle partway up because the original design was failing.
• Inside the Red Pyramid, the first true smooth-sided pyramid ever finished, and one of the few open to go into.
• An Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant, sitting down properly between the two sites rather than eating on the move.

Fun Fact: Imhotep, who designed the Step Pyramid, was worshipped as a god of medicine two thousand years after his death. He is one of only a handful of non-royal Egyptians ever to be deified.

Day 3: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure in Fayoum

Escape the crowds and journey into one of Egypt’s most astonishing natural and archaeological wonders. Today, you’ll travel by 4×4 safari deep into the heart of the UNESCO-listed Wadi El Hitan (Whale Valley), a remote desert landscape where time stands still. This surreal site holds fossilized remains of prehistoric whales—evidence of when Egypt was once covered by a vast ancient sea 40 million years ago. Walking through this open-air museum, you’ll see intact whale skeletons embedded in the sand, revealing the incredible story of evolution.

Next, we’ll visit the Magic Lake, a shimmering blue oasis nestled within the desert dunes. Its color changes throughout the day depending on the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing natural spectacle. Take a moment to soak in the serenity of this hidden gem.

Before returning to Cairo, we’ll explore the Qasr Qarun Temple, an ancient Greco-Roman fortress dating back over 2,000 years. Unlike other temples, this one remains remarkably intact, offering a glimpse into Egypt’s later historical periods, where Roman and Egyptian cultures blended.

Highlights

• 4×4 Safari Through the Desert – Feel the thrill of an off-road adventure into Egypt’s breathtaking landscapes.
• Step Into Prehistory at Whale Valley – Walk among fossilized whale skeletons from 40 million years ago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Marvel at the Magic Lake – Watch as this oasis changes color throughout the day, set against golden desert dunes.
• Explore Qasr Qarun Temple – One of Egypt’s best-preserved Greco-Roman temples, offering a fascinating look at history beyond the pharaohs.
• Exclusive & Off-the-Beaten-Path – A rare experience that takes you beyond the typical tourist sites into Egypt’s hidden wonders.

Day 4: Private Access to the Great Pyramids & Sphinx – A VIP Experience

Today is the pinnacle of your Egyptian journey—an exclusive VIP experience at one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Before the crowds arrive, you’ll step onto the Giza Plateau for private access to the Great Pyramids and the iconic Sphinx. Imagine standing before these 4,500-year-old monuments in a peaceful, intimate setting, experiencing them like few travelers ever do.

The highlight of the morning? Entering the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the largest and oldest of the three pyramids. Walk through the ancient passageways into the heart of this engineering marvel, where pharaohs were once laid to rest. This is a bucket-list moment, an opportunity to stand inside the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World.

After a delicious lunch at a handpicked local restaurant, we’ll continue to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)—a world-class showcase of Egypt’s treasures. Here, you’ll see the complete collection of artifacts from King Tutankhamun’s tomb, along with some of the most significant discoveries from ancient Egyptian history.

Highlights

• Private Access to the Giza Plateau – Experience the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx away from the crowds, a rare VIP moment.
• Step Inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu – Enter the largest and most famous of the pyramids, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum – See King Tut’s legendary treasures, including his iconic gold mask.
• Walk Beside the Sphinx – Stand face-to-face with Egypt’s greatest mystery, an experience few get to enjoy without crowds.

Indulge in Authentic Egyptian Cuisine – Savor a delicious local lunch in the heart of Cairo

This is the Egypt experience that travelers dream of—intimate, immersive, and filled with once-in-a-lifetime moments!

Days 5-11: 5-Star Luxury Nile Cruise – A Journey Through Time & Tranquility

Step aboard your floating palace on the Nile, a 5-star luxury cruise ship, where elegance meets adventure. As the gentle waves carry you through Egypt’s timeless landscapes, you’ll wake up each morning to breathtaking sunrises, sip cocktails on the panoramic sundeck, and indulge in gourmet meals inspired by ancient flavors. But this isn’t just a cruise—it’s a voyage through history, taking you from the grand temples of Luxor to the mystical shores of Aswan.

Over the next seven days, you’ll explore Egypt’s most iconic sites, visit hidden gems along the river, and enjoy unparalleled luxury as the Nile weaves its magic.

Your Unforgettable Nile Cruise Experience:

Luxor – The World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum

• Stand in awe beneath the towering pillars of Karnak Temple, one of the largest and most breathtaking temple complexes in the world.
• Visit the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs—including Tutankhamun—lie hidden beneath golden sands.
• Explore Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple, a masterpiece dedicated to Egypt’s most powerful female ruler.

Early Morning Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Over Luxor

For those seeking an extraordinary adventure, take to the skies at dawn in a hot air balloon and float over Luxor’s golden desert, green fields, and ancient monuments—an unforgettable panoramic view.

Edfu & Kom Ombo – Sacred Temples Along the Nile

• Arrive in Edfu to explore the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon god of kingship.
• Sail to Kom Ombo, the only temple in Egypt dedicated to two gods, where you’ll learn about ancient medicine and see real mummified crocodiles at the Crocodile Museum.

Aswan – The Jewel of the Nile

• Take a motorboat across the river to Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, the goddess of love and magic—one of Egypt’s most enchanting temples.
• Visit the Unfinished Obelisk, where you’ll see how ancient Egyptians carved these massive monuments straight from the bedrock.
• Experience the vibrant culture of a Nubian village, meeting locals, exploring colorful homes, and enjoying traditional music.
• Abu Simbel – The Crown Jewel of Ramses II

Wake before dawn for an unforgettable road trip to Abu Simbel, where you’ll stand before the massive rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari—a testament to Egypt’s golden age of power. (drive 3 1⁄2 hrs)

Optional: Camel Trek in Aswan

For a truly authentic experience, take a camel ride through the golden dunes of Aswan, just as traders did thousands of years ago.

Evenings Aboard Your Luxury Cruise

• Fine dining under the stars, savoring Egyptian and international cuisine.
• Sunset cocktails on the sundeck, watching the golden hues dance on the Nile.
• A traditional Galabeya Party, where you can dress in Egyptian-style robes and enjoy local music and entertainment.

Highlights

5-Star Floating Luxury – Enjoy world-class comfort as you sail through ancient history.
Unparalleled Views – Witness Egypt’s stunning landscapes, from golden deserts to lush riverbanks.
A Deep Dive into Ancient Egypt – Walk in the footsteps of pharaohs at the temples of Karnak, Luxor, and Abu Simbel.
Exclusive Cultural Experiences – Visit Nubian villages, mummified crocodiles, and hidden gems along the Nile.
Thrilling Optional Adventures – Hot air balloon ride over Luxor, camel trek in Aswan.

This is Egypt at its most magical—a journey of wonder, relaxation, and discovery, all from the luxury of your private cruise

Day 12: Return to Cairo – Check into The Four Seasons

After a week of sailing the Nile, return to Cairo for a final deep dive into Egypt’s rich history. Upon arrival, visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, home to the Royal Mummies Collection, where the carefully preserved remains of Egypt’s most powerful rulers are on display. This is a rare opportunity to come face-to-face with the legendary pharaohs who shaped history.

Later, check into the Five-Star Four Seasons Cairo at The First Residence, a luxurious retreat overlooking the Nile. Enjoy a relaxing evening and an elegant dinner with breathtaking views of the city.

Highlights

• Fly from Luxor to Cairo, ensuring a seamless journey back to the capital.
• Explore the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, featuring the Royal Mummies Collection and Egypt’s most significant artifacts.
• Unwind in luxury at the Four Seasons Cairo, a perfect place to relax after your journey through Egypt.
• Enjoy an exquisite dinner overlooking the Nile, savoring the flavors of Egypt one last time.

Day 13: Exploring Cairo’s Cultural Treasures

Your final full day in Egypt is dedicated to experiencing the cultural heart of Cairo. Begin at the Citadel of Salah Din, an imposing fortress that once served as the seat of power for Egypt’s rulers. Within its walls, visit the Muhammad Ali Pasha Mosque, known as the Alabaster Mosque, with its grand domes and panoramic city views.

Then, step into the bustling lanes of Khan el-Khalili, Cairo’s most famous bazaar. This legendary marketplace has been the center of trade for centuries, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to intricate textiles and traditional spices. Wander through the winding alleys, soak in the atmosphere, and pick up authentic souvenirs to remember your journey.

Cap off your adventure with a farewell dinner at the Four Seasons, celebrating the memories made along the way.

Highlights

• Visit the Citadel of Salah Din, a medieval stronghold with sweeping views of Cairo.
• Explore the Muhammad Ali Pasha Mosque, an architectural marvel and one of Cairo’s most iconic landmarks.
• Shop at Khan el-Khalili, Cairo’s legendary bazaar, where history and commerce blend in a vibrant setting.
• Savor a farewell dinner at the Four Seasons, reflecting on an extraordinary journey through Egypt.

Day 14: Departure – Farewell to Egypt

Enjoy one last morning in Cairo with a luxurious breakfast at the Four Seasons before transferring to Cairo International Airport for your flight home.