Ultimate Egypt: Pharaohs, Pyramids and a Nile Cruise

Arrive in Cairo, an age-old crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe. Set on the Nile delta, Egypt’s “city of a thousand minarets” enjoys a rich architectural tradition that includes the Great Pyramid of Giza — the only remaining Ancient Wonder of the World — as well as the marvelous Grand Egyptian Museum.

Today, accompany your A&K Egyptologist to explore the Grand Egyptian Museum, showcasing over 100,000 artifacts that span Egypt’s sprawling history, including treasures from the tomb of “the boy king,” Tutankhamun, history’s King Tut. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity puts you up close with artifacts, from the stone tools and pottery of the earliest human settlements along the Nile to the Greco-Roman era. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner.

On the Giza Plateau, view the great pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure as well as other historical sites. Enter the Great Pyramid of Cheops — last remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — stepping back in time some 4,000 years as you do. Then, enjoy special private access to the Great Sphinx, seizing the rare opportunity to lay your hands on its massive paws.

Fly south to Luxor, formerly known as Thebes, where you visit the Temple of Karnak, a vast complex of monumental columns, temples and statues devoted to Amun-Ra and other ancient Egyptian deities that surpasses Angkor Wat in size. Then board Sun Boat III, your luxurious home on the Nile for the next seven nights, in time for lunch. Afterward, explore the Temple of Luxor. This evening, gather for a complimentary cocktail and canapés, followed by dinner.

On the Nile’s West Bank, continue to encounter ancient Egypt, starting at the fabled Colossi of Memnon, two enormous, seated statues of Amenhotep III. Next comes the terraced funerary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Egypt’s first female pharaoh, and the Valley of the Kings, burial ground of the pharaohs. Enter the iconic tomb of Tutankhamun (King Tut), before visiting the former home of Howard Carter, the legendary archaeologist who found it. Gain entry to the lesser-visited, well-preserved tomb of Seti I, father of Ramses II. Then, in the Valley of the Queens, explore the tomb of Queen Nefertari, said to be the finest tomb in Egypt. Later today, explore the Luxor Museum, browsing its fascinating collections.

Rise early for an exhilarating hot air balloon ride over the Nile and the temples that line its shores. Afterward, go off the beaten path to one of Luxor’s less-visited sites, Medinet Habu, built by Ramses III. Make a special stop at Funtasia Children’s School, supported by Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy, to learn how the school helps strengthen confidence, collaboration and communication among its students. Note that this visit is subject to availability based on the school calendar. Back on board, cruise toward Esna, cocktail in hand.

Explore the Greco-Roman Temple of Khnum at Esna with your Egyptologist guide and then cruise to Edfu, where you visit the wellpreserved Temple of Horus, the falcon-headed god of kingship and healing.

Relax on board this morning. After lunch, learn to prepare local dishes during a culinary experience led by your onboard chef. Disembark in Kom Ombo for a walking visit to this lovely Greco-Roman temple dedicated to Haroeris (the sun god) and Sobek (the crocodile god). Join the party tonight, wearing traditional Egyptian galabeyas and savoring a lavish buffet of Egyptian specialties, followed by Arabic music and dancing.

Disembark in Aswan to visit the granite quarries that supplied stone for many of Egypt’s pyramids and temples. View the 1,200-ton “Unfinished Obelisk” and then boat to the island of Agilika to admire the exquisite Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Sail by felucca (traditional sailing vessel), weather permitting, around Elephantine Island and view the splendid Aga Khan Mausoleum. After lunch, relax on board or explore a local Aswan spice market.

Fly to Abu Simbel, site of the magnificent temple of Ramses II, and marvel at the four enormous statues of the pharaoh that grace its façade, each over 60 feet high. Eat lunch before flying back to Aswan.

Disembark Sun Boat III and return to Cairo in time for lunch. This afternoon, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.

• Discover Coptic Cairo, visiting a church built where the Holy Family stayed and other Christian sites.
• Tour Islamic Cairo, including the lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.
• View the Royal Mummies, and countless other artifacts as you tour the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.
  

The rest of your day is on your own.

Venture just outside of Cairo to Sakkara, the vast necropolis of ancient Memphis, site of the famous Step Pyramid. Built by Djoser I in 2700 BC, it is the world’s oldest stone structure. Then bask in a special private opening of the 4,400-year-old tomb of Wahtye. Unearthed in 2018, it is completely untouched and filled with painted hieroglyphics, sculptures and inscriptions. Also visit the Mereruka Tomb, one of the most exquisitely decorated tombs of the Old Kingdom. Tonight, gather for a memorable farewell dinner.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport to board your departing flight.