Egypt is a land where history rises from the desert in monumental form, where the ancient world still whispers through temples, tombs, and timeless landscapes. Yet even among its many wonders, two experiences stand apart for their rarity, grandeur, and cultural significance. This journey has been purposefully designed around both.
The first is the long-awaited opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)—the world’s largest archaeological museum devoted to a single civilization. Set against the backdrop of the Giza Plateau, GEM brings together more than 100,000 artifacts in a state-of-the-art complex spanning 120 acres. Here, Egypt’s ancient heritage is presented on a scale and in a setting unmatched anywhere in the world, offering guests a profound and immersive encounter with the past.
The second is the Abu Simbel Sun Festival, an astronomical marvel that occurs only in February and October each year. At sunrise on October 22nd, the first rays of light travel deep into the Great Temple of Ramses II, illuminating the statues of the sun gods—and Ramses himself—in the innermost sanctuary. This breathtaking event, engineered over 3,000 years ago with astonishing precision, marks the pharaoh’s birthday and stands as a timeless testament to ancient Egypt’s mastery of architecture, astronomy, and spiritual design.
Together, these two experiences form the heart of this specially curated itinerary: a rare opportunity to witness a once-a-year solar alignment at Abu Simbel and to be among the first visitors to explore the iconic Grand Egyptian Museum. Combined with Egypt’s legendary temples, vibrant markets, and Nile River landscapes, this journey offers a deep, meaningful, and unforgettable immersion into the wonders of the ancient world.
| UNESCO World Heritage Sites covered in this tour | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis | 2. | Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur |
| 3. | Historic Cairo | 4. | Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae |
| Tour Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Duration | : | 13 days |
| Minimum | : | 2 persons |
| Maximum | : | 8 persons |
| Price (From) | : | |
| International air not included | ||
Day 01: October 14, 2026 – Arrive Cairo
Ahlan wa sahlan! Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you are warmly greeted and assisted through formalities before being transferred to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Cairo is a city layered with history, where modern life unfolds alongside ancient wonders. Depending on arrival time, you may choose to take a relaxing stroll around the hotel’s surroundings, unwind after your flight, or enjoy the vibrant evening atmosphere of the Egyptian capital. Your adventure begins gently today, giving you time to settle comfortably into the rhythm of the journey ahead.
Overnight: Marriott Hotel (Deluxe Nile Room) (3 nights)
Day 02: October 15, 2026 – Cairo and Giza
Today you explore the legendary Giza Plateau, home to some of the most recognizable monuments on earth. Stand before the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, and admire the neighbouring pyramids of Chephren and Mycerinus. Visit the enigmatic Great Sphinx, guardian of this ancient necropolis for millennia. For those seeking added adventure, an optional camel ride offers. (B)
Day 03: October 16, 2026 – Cairo
Discover the cultural treasures of Islamic Cairo, beginning with the imposing Citadel overlooking the city. Explore the elegant Mohamed Ali Mosque, one of Cairo’s most recognizable landmarks, with sweeping views across the metropolis. Wander through the atmospheric lanes of Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace dating back to the 14th century. Here, craftsmen, spice vendors, jewellers and artisans keep centuries-old traditions alive. Enjoy a delicious Egyptian lunch in Old Cairo, surrounded by historic charm. Later, return to your hotel or join the optional Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids—an iconic evening experience that brings Egypt’s ancient history to life. (B)
Day 04: October 17, 2026 – Luxor (Flight and Cruise)
Fly from Cairo to Luxor, the world’s greatest open-air museum, and board your comfortable Nile cruise—your home for the next few days. This afternoon, visit the vast Karnak Temple Complex, an extraordinary collection of sanctuaries, pylons, and halls built over two thousand years. Walk through the towering Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 monumental columns, and marvel at the scale of ancient craftsmanship. Continue to Luxor Temple, beautifully lit in the late afternoon, where pharaohs were crowned and festivals celebrated. As evening falls, settle into cruise life and enjoy your first night on the Nile, surrounded by timeless scenery.
Overnight: Steigenberger Regency (Standard room) (B, L, D)
Day 05: October 18, 2026 – Luxor/Esna/Edfu (Cruise)
This morning, cross to the West Bank of Luxor to explore the ancient Theban Necropolis. Enter the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs were laid to rest in richly decorated tombs carved deep into desert cliffs. Continue to the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural masterpiece rising in terraces beneath towering limestone mountains. Pause at the Colossi of Memnon for photographs before returning to the cruise. Sail south toward Esna, where the fascinating passage through the Esna Lock offers insight into modern Nile navigation. Continue toward Edfu, passing tranquil riverside villages and palm-lined shores.
Overnight: Nile Cruise, Edfu (B, L, D)
Day 06: October 19, 2026 – Edfu/Kom Ombo/Aswan (Cruise)
Begin the day in Edfu with a visit to the Temple of Horus, the best-preserved temple in Egypt, showcasing exquisite carvings, ceremonial chambers, and soaring pylons. Return to the ship and sail to Kom Ombo, where the riverside Temple of Sobek and Haroeris awaits. This unique double temple honors two gods and includes a fascinating collection of mummified crocodiles reflecting ancient beliefs tied to the Nile. Continue sailing toward Aswan, enjoying views of fertile riverbanks, desert horizons, and daily life unfolding along the water. Arrive in Aswan this evening, one of the Nile Valley’s most graceful and serene cities.
Overnight: Nile Cruise, Aswan (B, L, D)
Day 07: October 20, 2026 – Aswan (Cruise)
Lahore successively served as regional capital of the empires of the Shahi kingdoms in the 11th century, the Discover the highlights of Aswan, beginning with the monumental Aswan High Dam, an engineering marvel that reshaped Egypt’s relationship with the Nile. Continue to the enchanting Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis and beautifully relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from flooding. Wander through lush pathways of the Aswan Botanical Garden on Kitchener’s Island, home to rare plants and serene riverside views. Later, enjoy a gentle felucca sail around Elephantine Island, where life moves at a peaceful pace. Today marks your final night aboard the cruise as you bid farewell to your floating home.
Overnight: Nile Cruise, Esna (B, L, D)
Day 08: October 21, 2026 – Aswan/Abu Simbel (Drive)
After breakfast, begin the overland drive to Abu Simbel, traveling along the quiet desert road that runs parallel to Lake Nasser. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You may choose to rest, explore the lakeside surroundings, or simply prepare for tomorrow’s extraordinary sunrise event. As the site grows quieter toward evening, you may sense the history and majesty of this ancient place—home to monumental temples carved directly into the mountainside by Ramses II, whose ambition and devotion to the gods left an enduring legacy for the world to witness.
Overnight: Seri Abu Simbel (Standard Room) (2 nights) (B, D)
Day 09: October 22, 2026 – Abu Simbel
Rise before dawn for the remarkable Abu Simbel Sun Festival, an event that occurs only twice each year. As the sun climbs the horizon, its rays travel nearly 60 metres into the temple’s inner sanctuary, illuminating the statues of Ramses II, Amun-Ra, and Ra-Horakhty. The statue of Ptah remains in shadow, preserving ancient symbolic design. Witnessing this alignment—achieved by precise ancient engineering and preserved even after the temple’s relocation—is a deeply moving experience. Following this unique spectacle, enjoy time exploring the complex and reflecting on the extraordinary ingenuity of ancient Egyptian civilization. (B, D)
Day 10: October 23, 2026 – Aswan/Cairo (Flight)
Depart Abu Simbel this morning for the return drive to Aswan, traveling once more along the shores of Lake Nasser. Upon arrival, transfer to the Aswan airport for your short flight back to Cairo. A representative will meet you upon landing and escort you to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax, enjoy the hotel’s amenities, or explore a nearby neighbourhood. Cairo’s energy offers countless possibilities—from riverside cafés to bustling streets—allowing you to unwind or continue discovering Egypt at your own pace after your unforgettable experience in the south.
Overnight: Cairo Marriott Hotel (3 nights) (B)
Day 11: October 24, 2026 – Cairo, Grand Egyptian Museum
Spend today exploring the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the most ambitious archaeological museum project in modern history. Although the full public opening is pending, several monumental areas and selected galleries are accessible. See the towering statue of Ramses II in the grand atrium, the suspended Obelisk of Senusret I, and carefully curated exhibits showcasing the evolution of ancient craftsmanship. Your guide will help interpret the artifacts currently available for viewing. After the visit, the afternoon is free for independent exploration—consider visiting a café, walking along the Nile, or relaxing at your hotel. (B)
Day 12: October 25, 2026 – Cairo - Optional to visit Alexandria
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Cairo or choose an optional full-day excursion to Alexandria. Those who travel to the Mediterranean coast will discover the historic Fort of Qaitbay, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, followed by the peaceful gardens of Montazah Palace. Visit the impressive Bibliotheca Alexandrina—a modern architectural landmark paying tribute to the ancient world’s greatest library. Return to Cairo in the evening. Guests who remain in the capital may choose to explore local neighbourhoods, relax at their hotel, or revisit favourite sites for a deeper experience. After our enlightening journey through millenary history, we are transferred to the airport for our departure flight. (B)
Day 13: October 26, 2026 – Depart Cairo
Bid farewell to Egypt as you transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight. Take your unforgettable memories of ancient temples, timeless river landscapes, bustling markets, and extraordinary cultural experiences. From the mysteries of the pyramids to the serenity of the Nile and the celestial wonder of the Sun Festival, your journey has highlighted Egypt’s enduring beauty and spirit. Assistance is provided for your airport check-in before boarding your homebound or onward flight.
Overnight: Cairo Marriott Hotel (B)
B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Departure Dates & Prices
We accept payments in US$, CA$ as well as in other convertible currencies like EUR, AUD and GBP. Tour prices have been costed in US$. CA$ price shown below is an indicative amount reached at by using the conversion rate at the time of web posting and will be applicable if there is no change in the conversion rate. Should the currency conversion rate change, the US$ pricing will prevail. Bestway Tours & Safaris offers a conversion rate protection. Once full payment has been received and no modification has been made to the tour itinerary, we will honour that rate. For complete payment procedures, please click here
| 2026 | Per Person on Twin Sharing |
Single Room Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| Departure(s) | ||
| Feb 14; Oct 14, 2026 | US$ 5950 | US$ 1995 |
| 2026 | Per Person on Twin Sharing |
Single Room Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| Departure(s) | ||
| Feb 14; Oct 14, 2026 | CA$ 8563 | CA$ 2871 |
Notes
Inclusions
Participants
This tour operates on a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 participants.
Customised Itinerary
If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.
Contact Info
Email us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378.
Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.
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