Egypt Christmas Vacation: An 8-Day Journey to the Land of Pharaohs

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before setting out for the legendary Giza Plateau. Marvel at the majestic Great Pyramids and the timeless Sphinx—enduring symbols of ancient Egypt’s grandeur and ingenuity. After exploring these wonders, enjoy a flavorful lunch at a traditional Egyptian restaurant.

In the afternoon, continue to the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a state-of-the-art cultural landmark showcasing the treasures of Egypt’s ancient past. Wander through its expansive galleries, discover fascinating artifacts, and experience the stories of a civilization that shaped history.
Later, return to your hotel in Cairo to relax and unwind for the evening.

Overnight in Cairo.

This morning, bid farewell to Cairo as your tour manager escorts you to Cairo Airport for your flight south to the charming city of Aswan. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and transferred in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to begin your explorations.

Discover the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddesses Isis and Hathor, beautifully set on an island in the Nile. Continue to the Unfinished Obelisk, an immense monument that remains partially carved in the ancient granite quarries, offering insight into the artistry of ancient Egyptian stonework.

After sightseeing, you’ll be taken to your hotel in Aswan to relax and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight in Aswan.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before meeting your tour manager for an unforgettable journey to the majestic Temples of Abu Simbel. Traveling in a modern air-conditioned coach with a small group, you’ll marvel at these awe-inspiring monuments built by Ramses II—true masterpieces of the New Kingdom.

Rescued from the rising waters of the Aswan High Dam in a remarkable UNESCO relocation project, the temples remain symbols of both ancient grandeur and modern preservation. The Great Temple of Ramses II, also known as the Sun Temple, honors the pharaoh alongside the gods Ptah, Re-Horakhty, and Amun-Re. Beside it stands the Temple of Queen Nefertari, dedicated to Hathor, wife of the Sun God—together reflecting divine unity and eternal devotion.

After this remarkable visit, you’ll be transferred to embark on your luxurious Salacia Nile Cruise in Aswan, where you can unwind and enjoy the elegance of life along the river.

Overnight onboard in Aswan.

Wake up to your first breakfast on board as your cruise glides along the tranquil Nile toward Kom Ombo. Step ashore and stroll through the charming town streets before reaching the remarkable Temple of Kom Ombo, unique for its perfectly symmetrical design with twin entrances, halls, and sanctuaries dedicated to two sets of deities.

Afterward, return to the cruise and enjoy a delightful lunch as you continue sailing to Edfu. Upon arrival, you’ll discover the magnificent Temple of Horus, one of the most beautifully preserved temples from the Greco-Roman period. Travel to and from the temple in a traditional horse-drawn carriage, offering you a glimpse of Upper Egypt’s authentic daily life. Along the way, soak in the peaceful countryside scenery, where farmers tend their fields and lush groves of bananas and date palms line the landscape.

In the afternoon, unwind with tea on deck as the cruise sails toward Esna. Conclude your day with a delicious dinner while drifting along the serene waters of the Nile.

Overnight on board.

Wake up to a delicious breakfast as your cruise sails into the legendary city of Luxor. Step ashore and begin your journey through the city’s awe-inspiring heritage. Your exploration starts on the West Bank, where you’ll wander through the Valley of the Kings, the resting place of 62 Pharaohs, and uncover the grandeur of the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a breathtaking masterpiece of New Kingdom architecture carved into the cliffs of Deir El-Bahari. Conclude your sightseeing with a visit to the majestic Colossi of Memnon, the two towering statues that have guarded Thebes for millennia.

After immersing yourself in Luxor’s ancient wonders, return to your cruise for well-deserved relaxation. Sip on afternoon tea, indulge in a soothing massage, or unwind in the Jacuzzi while drifting along the Nile. As the evening sets in, savor a delectable dinner on board.

Overnight stay on your cruise in Luxor.

Savor your final breakfast on board while taking in the tranquil beauty of the Nile. Afterward, bid farewell to your cruise as you disembark and set off for one last adventure. Your tour manager will guide you to the East Bank of Luxor, where you’ll explore the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, a sprawling sanctuary dedicated to Amun and filled with towering columns and sacred lakes. Continue on to the elegant Luxor Temple, beautifully aligned with the Nile and steeped in centuries of history.

With your Luxor exploration complete, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Cairo. On arrival, you’ll be greeted and escorted to your hotel for a relaxing evening and your final overnight stay in the Land of the Pharaohs.

Overnight in cairo

Enjoy your last breakfast at the hotel before soaking in the charm of Cairo one final time. Take advantage of your free hours to stroll through the lively streets, share a friendly chat with locals, or relax over a traditional cup of Egyptian tea at a nearby café. When it’s time, your tour manager will escort you to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Egypt’s timeless wonders.