Spend a week uncovering the secrets of Egypt
Discover Egypt, a country steeped in history, culture and adventure. From iconic sights to breath taking views and bustling cities to tranquil beaches, this is a holiday that will create lasting memories.
The below is just a taster, let us tailor make the perfect Egyptian itinerary just for you. Read on to find out more.
VISIT: CAIRO - Day 1 to 3
The iconic city of Cairo is enchanting, a spread out carpet of turrets amid swirling sands and honking horns, all cut through by the glossy waters of the Nile. As the oldest city in the Arab world, it’s characterised by ancient sights: intricate churches, synagogues and mosques (the beautiful Ibn Tulum is the most famous), formidable temples and bustling bazaars. But no trip to Cairo is complete without seeing the Pyramids of Giza.
The only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, they draw thousands of visitors looking to uncover their secrets. But through all this history, there’s a modern side to Cairo too; the one of bars and galleries and boutiques, where the people of the city gather and the young smoke shisha and dance into the small hours.
STAY: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence
The Four Seasons is a true picture of 21st-century Egypt. The hotel sits on the luscious western banks of the Nile and as you ascend the floors, you’ll see the city laid out in a mix of old and new, as well as the Pyramids of Giza beyond. Inside the glossy exterior, things are no less shiny, with plenty of ornate tapestries, sparkling chandeliers, and marble detailing to delight. With the prime location on Giza Street, you’ll be moments away from Cairo’s historic monuments and scenic spots.
EXPLORE: Aswan – Day 3 to 5
Escape the hustle and bustle of Cairo and make your way to Egypt’s southernmost city for a little respite. Aswan is laidback and languorous the perfect place to relax in these hotter climes. So, why visit this tranquil town? First of all, it’s beautiful. Golden Saharan sands sweep down to the Nile where traditional Nubian villages stand, painted in beautiful colours and shaded by swaying palms.
On the water, hundreds of feluccas bob past on their daily parade; hop on one and sail around the palm-studded islands, watching local life unfold, or make stops at the Tombs of the Nobles and Kitchener’s Island for the beautiful Botanical Gardens. 90 miles south is Abu Simel, a complex of impressive, rock-hewn temples, and the phenomenal Philae Temple, or the Pearl of the Nile as it’s known. Organise a day trip or fly down if you’d like to stay longer.
STAY: Mövenpick Aswan
Mövenpick sits on Elephantine Island with delightful vistas of the Nile and Smartie-coloured Nubian Houses, just a quick boat ride from central Aswan. The city is a laidback locale where the scent of fresh roses welcomes you each day and at the hotel, you’ll enjoy tranquil river views over a bowl of homemade ice cream. Boasting the best view in Aswan, the Panorama is the highest restaurant in the city, and it’s from here that you can eye out your next stop.
Will it be the floral paradise on Kitchener’s Island, the famous Philae Temple (or Temple of Love), or an authentic felucca ride down the Nile?
DISCOVER: Luxor - Day 5 to 6
One of Ancient Egypt’s most prominent cities, Luxor is famous for its historic and cultural relics. Split between the West and East Bank, the city is regarded as one of the greatest open-air museums on Earth. Venture to the sprawling Valley of the Kings, a maze of intricately-painted tombs (including Tutankhamun’s), and wake early to experience the formidable Colossi of Memnon at sunrise. Across the river, the ancient Karnak Complex is an incredible collection of temples and obelisks. Enjoy a felucca sail or hot air balloon ride above this fascinating corner of Egypt and experience it from a different perspective.
STAY: Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa
Luxor is a city with abundant history and sitting on the East Bank of the Nile – with excellent views of the Valley of the Kings – the Hilton puts you in the thick of it all. This is a hotel with poise and style, luxurious interiors that will make you gasp, and a smorgasbord of eateries, including private dinners at the river’s edge.
Spend your days enjoying languid felucca rides past the Tombs of the Nobles, discovering King Tutankhamun’s resting place, or perhaps even soaring overhead in a hot air balloon.
VISIT: Hurghada – Day 6 to 9
Hurghada has earned its stripes in the world of diving. Here the waters of the Red Sea are warm, calm and crystal-clear and with countless fish and almost 500 species of coral, both diving and snorkelling are very special experiences. Close to most hotels in the area is the Dolphin House Reef, a colony used by local dolphins as a nursery, whilst Careless Reef is home to two coral towers and a good population of eels.
Prefer to keep your feet on dry land? The city and its surrounding white sand beaches and pretty bays – have lots to offer. Activities-wise, there are unhurried boat trips and picnics in hidden coves, and, if you’d like to head further afield, there are desert excursions, camel rides and quad bike adventures. And why not end each day on the beach, dining on freshly-caught seafood, cocktail in hand.
STAY: Baron Palace Sahl Hasheesh
This beachfront retreat, beautifully located in the heart of Sahl Hasheesh Bay has over 600 m2 of private sandy beach with breathtaking views, heated pools during the winter, and opportunities for diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea. The dining experience is a celebration of flavors, offering a diverse array of cuisines to satisfy every taste. From gourmet delights to local specialties, the world-class chefs craft exquisite dishes that elevate your dining experience.