14 Day 5 Star Egypt with Nile & Lake Nasser Cruising
This package has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city.
Designed to take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Travel with no more than 26 people (on average 16-20), allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience.
This tour is either fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader or guided by experienced local guides at each destination. If your itinerary includes local guides, a new guide will meet you in each location, and any internal flights will be unescorted. For further details, please refer to the Essential Information for this tour.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Visit the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, Abu Simbel, Alexandria, El Alamein, the Valley of the Kings, cruise the Nile and Lake Nasser
✓ Intimate small group experience with no more than 16 guests
✓ 7 nights in 5-star accommodation
✓ 6 nights aboard two cruises on Lake Nasser and the Nile
✓ Daily breakfast, 8 lunches and 8 dinners
✓ Fully escorted tour with English-speaking Egyptologist guide throughout
✓ Return airport transfers
✓ Dedicated private transportation throughout
Discover Egypt in five-star style: admire the Pyramids of Giza, explore historic Alexandria, cruise tranquil Lake Nasser past ancient temples, and sail the legendary Nile in comfort—immersed in iconic history and refined luxury for an unforgettable journey.
Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Egypt. On arrival into Cairo International Airport (CAI) you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is at leisure.
A buzzing metropolis, home to at least 19 million people, Cairo gives you a great feel for Egyptian streetlife. It’s busy – almost frantic – and among the hustle and bustle, it’s an exciting blend of old world and new. Arabs call this city Umm al-Dunya (the mother of the world). There are many beautiful mosques to visit, like the Mohammed Ali Mosque in the Citadel. Or head to the oldest part of Cairo, the Babylon Fortress, to see ancient ruins. For stunning panoramic views of the capital, go up the 187-metre-high Cairo Tower.
Special Information
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
This morning, meet your guide for your visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum. Rising beside the Giza Pyramids, the breathtaking Grand Egyptian Museum is a monumental tribute to ancient Egypt. This ultra-modern masterpiece unveils over 100,000 treasures, including Tutankhamun’s full collection, in dazzling galleries filled with light, glass, and history. It’s the world’s largest museum of a single civilisation.
Afterwards we depart Cairo and drive to the port city of Alexandria along what is known as the ‘desert road’. Alexandria is a historic Mediterranean city founded by Alexander the Great, blending ancient wonders, Greco-Roman heritage, and seaside charm, renowned for its library, catacombs, and elegant coastal atmosphere.
This evening enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 ½ hours.
After breakfast, embark on a fascinating tour of Alexandria. Marvel at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern tribute to the ancient library, housing millions of books and cultural exhibits. Next we descend into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a vast underground necropolis adorned with intricate carvings blending Egyptian, Greek, and Roman styles. Finally, explore the Greco-Roman Museum, showcasing statues, mosaics, and artifacts that reveal the city’s rich multicultural heritage along the Mediterranean coast.
Following your tour, the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
This morning we depart Alexandria and drive towards the town of El Alamein where we will visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery and Memorial. It is here where two extended battles were fought during World War II. The first began on the 1st July 1942 and lasted for 27 days, ending as a stalemate. After 3 months of holding back the enemy, the allies launched a second attack which lasted for 13 days. The importance of El Alamein was highlighted by Winston Churchill, who said “Before Alamein we never had a victory.”
Following our visit here, we will drive back to Cairo.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today will be full of excitement as we head out to see some of the world’s most iconic sights – the magnificent Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Instantly familiar yet full of mystique, these incredible pharaonic tombs are an incredible sight and will fill you with awe. Here we’ll explore these powerful structures that have stood tall and proud for 4,500 years. Afterwards, we’ll head to the ancient site of Saqqara, the oldest complete stone complex known in history. Saqqara also served as the burial ground for Kings and High officials that lived in the ancient Egyptian Capital, Memphis. Here we’ll view the legendary pyramids of Saqqara, including the famous Step Pyramid.
As our tour here concludes, we’ll head back to our hotel for an evening of leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Today we leave Cairo and fly to Abu Simbel (via Aswan) where we will board our Lake Nasser cruise. After settling in and a delicious lunch you will have a tour of Abu Simbel.
Often referred to as the Temples of Ramses II, the two enormous sandstone structures at Abu Simbel were built in 1255 BC by Ramses II to commemorate himself and his favorite wife Nefertari. The larger temple, dedicated to three major Egyptian deities, features four large statues of Ramses II on its facade, while the smaller temple is dedicated to the love goddess Hathor, with statues designed to embody Nefertari. Set on the banks of the artificial Lake Nasser, the structures were once in danger of being flooded with the construction of the Aswan High Dam but were saved via an extensive project to cut the temples into pieces and move them to higher ground, where they are seen today.
Following our tour of Abu Simbel we return to our cruise boat for some time to relax.
This evening there is an optional visit to the Abus Simbel Sound & Light Show (booked directly on board)
Inspiring Highlights
Abu Simbel
Special information
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on.
Your internal flight for this day is arranged by our local partner. Specific flight details will be provided by your Tour Leader upon arrival and cannot be provided in advance. Please note that these group flights cannot be upgraded, amended, or checked in online. Your Tour Leader will manage the check-in process for the group.
Our extraordinary Nile Cruise begins on beautiful Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Today we will sail to Qasr Ibrim, originally a major city perched on a cliff above the Nile. After the flooding of Lake Nasser during the construction of the Aswan High Dam, Qasr Ibrim was transformed into an island with its outskirts underwater. Now an important archaeological site closed to the public, we will sail just close enough to view the fascinating ruins from the ship’s sundeck and take some photographs. After this we will continue on to see the Temple of Amada, the oldest Egyptian temple in the region, constructed by Pharaoh Thutmose III of the 18th dynasty. Here we will also see the temple’s sole tomb, the Tomb of Pennut. The rock-cut Temple of Derr can be seen here as well, built during the 19th Dynasty by Pharaoh Ramesses II.
Next we sail on to Wadi El Seboua, where our day today will end and our tour will begin tomorrow. The evening will be spent on board relaxing and mingling with fellow travellers, discussing the incredible sights we’ve encountered so far.
Inspiring Highlights
This morning we begin with a tour of Wadi El Seboua, where several important sites were relocated during the Aswan High Dam construction to save them from flooding. The government and groups involved in the relocation of the country’s national treasures found it easier to relocate multiple sites together to a few carefully chosen spots. Wadi El Seboua was one of these chosen spots and as a result there are numerous magnificent things to see here.
After touring the temples of Wadi El Seboua, we will sail back towards Aswan.
Inspiring Highlights
Wadi El Seboua
Early this morning we will be heading out for a visit to the Temple of Kalabsha. This Roman Period temple to the sun god Mandulis was entirely relocated in 1970 to protect it from Lake Nasser. It was built by Emperor Augustus and was the largest free-standing temple of Egyptian Nubia. During relocation, the temple was cut into 13,000 blocks. Later this morning we will disembark our cruise.
Before embarking our second cruise, we will make a stop at the fascinating Nubian Museum. The museum is considered to be a gateway to the history of Nubia that enables visitors to understand the complex history of this unique area. The stunning architecture of the museum itself is enough of a reason to visit.
Later we'll check in to our Nile cruise, home for the next three nights as we sail to Luxor.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Please note that as the sailing distance between Aswan and Luxor is approximately 200km, that it is typical for all cruises operated along the Nile to be docked for majority of the time to conduct sightseeing, with the sailing to occur in the evening. The vessel will be docked either in Aswan or Luxor. Depending on the time of year and number of vessels operating at the same time, you will also find that all vessels are docked beside one another, which is beyond our control.
To ensure that our customers have appropriate expectations prior to their journey, it is important not to compare this experience to that of a European River Cruise, which tends to cover a greater distance and on larger vessels. Instead, you will experience a deluxe stay onboard your vessel, offering a great chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the banks of the Nile while you sit back and relax. Your cruise schedule will be provided once onboard.
Today our journey ashore is to visit the Kom Ombo Temple. Set dramatically on the bank of the Nile, 168 kilometres south of Luxor, the soaring, chunky columns of the Great Temple of Kom Ombo are a magnificent sight as you arrive from the river. Dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris, the temple's finely carved reliefs give a sense of this area's prominence as capital over the surrounding region during the Ptolemaic era. Today, Kom Ombo may be a sleepy agricultural backwater surrounded by sugar cane fields, but its prime position along the Nile once made it one of Upper Egypt's most important centres. Wander through the temple's colonnades, gazing up at scenes of kingly propaganda, and you'll capture a feel of this glorious history for yourself. We’ll then return to the cruise boat where we’ll continue travelling upriver, with free time relaxing on the sundeck and taking in the surrounding sights – desert hills forming a backdrop to lush riverbanks, fishermen casting their nets and farmers working their land.
The remainder of the day, relax onboard as you continue sailing towards Edfu
Inspiring Highlights
Kom Ombo Temple
This morning we will moor near Edfu – home to ancient settlements and temples, as well as a bustling town centre and a bazaar.
We will continue cruising toward Luxor, passing through the historic lock at Esna as you continue along the Nile’s tranquil waters.
After lunch onboard, we'll explore the magnificent Karnak Temple, which is perhaps the most impressive of all the ancient pharaohs' monumental works. One of the world's most celebrated temple complexes, Karnak was built over some 200 years and was once known as the 'Chosen of Places'. Your guided tour of this vast temple of impressive pylons, obelisks and chapels will reveal its finest sections, such as the Avenue of Sphinxes and the Great Temple of Amun.
Following your temple tour, return to the ship and enjoy dinner onboard and an evening Egyptian Belly Dancer Show.
Inspiring Highlights
Karnak Temple
Special Information
Please note: the only mode of transport available to visit the Temple of Edfu is by locally managed horse and carriages. As a responsible travel-focused business, animal welfare is extremely important to us and we want to ensure that we are not promoting any activities where the working animals are not properly cared for. Unfortunately, some operators of the horse and carriages have been found to be in breach of our animal welfare guidelines and it is, for this reason, we will no longer include the visit to the Temple of Edfu.
In addition to the animal welfare concerns, we have had a substantial amount of feedback suggesting that the experience itself is quite uncomfortable due to the pushy nature of the vendors and local suppliers outside the site. While we recommend that you do not use the horse and carriage to visit the Temple, the decision is ultimately up to you. Edfu is an included port stop on the Nile River cruise schedule.
After breakfast we disembark our Nile cruise. Today explore the open air museum of Luxor and the “Valley of the Kings”. Luxor is full of wonderfully preserved reminders of the Pharaohs. Our first stop is the spectacular royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings. Buried under the arid hills here are over 60 tombs of pharaohs, many richly decorated with reliefs and paintings. We’ll explore this sprawling and spectacular place, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BC) were secretly interred for all eternity, and where discoveries are still being made. Our guide will explain the history and legends of these remarkable people, their funerary rites, and the significance of the many paintings and hieroglyphics, still well preserved in the deepest tombs.
We’ll visit three of the most interesting royal tombs, then continue to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a stunning colonnaded building set against high cliffs that create a spectacular natural amphitheatre. One of Egypt’s greatest Queens, she built this temple to prove her importance among the ancestors.
Finally a photo stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two 17 metre-high statues on Luxor's west bank. Carved from granite blocks, they represent the Pharaoh Amenhotep III and were once part of an impressive colonnade.
This evening is at your leisure to further explore the town of Luxor or relax in your hotel located on the banks of the Nile.
Inspiring Highlights
Today you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Cairo. On arrival check into your hotel before an afternoon visit to Khan El-Khalili Bazaar.
Khan El Khalili is Cairo’s vibrant, centuries-old bazaar, brimming with colorful stalls, traditional crafts, spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. Its winding alleys bustle with merchants, cafés, and historic architecture, offering an authentic taste of Egyptian culture, lively atmosphere, and a timeless shopping experience steeped in history.
This evening enjoy a farewell dinner in a traditional home to experience locally made cuisine.
Special information
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on.
Your internal flight for this day is arranged by our local partner. Specific flight details will be provided by your Tour Leader upon arrival and cannot be provided in advance. Please note that these group flights cannot be upgraded, amended, or checked in online. Your Tour Leader will manage the check-in process for the group.
Unfortunately, today marks the end of your incredible tour through Egypt. At the appropriate time you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Special Information:
Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.
If you choose to extend your stay (e.g., departing after the final tour date) and have booked your additional accommodation independently, this included service will be forfeited and no refund will be issued.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Your tour includes two cruises:
The Mövenpick MS Prince Abbas offers a refined five-star cruising experience on Lake Nasser between Aswan and Abu Simbel, combining timeless Egyptian history with Swiss-inspired comfort.
The ship features elegant, contemporary interiors and spacious cabins with panoramic windows, en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, television and in-room safe. Onboard facilities include a sun deck with pool and whirlpool, gym, stylish lounges and bar, and evening entertainment.
Enjoy high-quality dining featuring a refined blend of international classics and traditional Egyptian flavours.
The Amwaj Livingstone offers a stylish five-star Nile cruising experience between Luxor and Aswan, blending modern comfort with timeless Egyptian heritage.
The ship features contemporary interiors and well-appointed cabins with panoramic windows, private bathrooms, air-conditioning, television and in-room safe.
Unwind on the sun deck with swimming pool and Jacuzzi, enjoy relaxed lounge and bar spaces, and take in evening entertainment onboard.
Dining showcases generous international buffet cuisine served in the main restaurant.
Payment Terms
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product.
Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.
Terms and conditions
Please review our terms and conditions here:
https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions
Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.
Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.
Arrival Details
Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are arriving as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your arrangements to the starting hotel.
Where the service remains included, on arrival look out for a representative holding an “Inspiring Vacations” sign after you have collected your baggage and exited customs. If you cannot find them, try to avoid wandering around and instead stay in one place and call the emergency contact number on your documentation.
Where the service has been forfeited due to an early arrival and extended stay, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
To make your way to your hotel from the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. The airport information desks can provide helpful advice, too. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi.
If you're having any problems finding the hotel, please ring the hotel directly or you can phone our customer support team for on-tour assistance.
Welcome Meeting Instructions
On the evening of Day 1 there will be a group welcome meeting at the hotel lobby at 6pm. Upon checking in at the hotel, you will receive a letter containing meeting instructions for the following morning. If you do not automatically receive these details, please ask for them. Generally, you must meet at the lobby the following morning (on the day that sightseeing commences) as early as 0815 am local time. Please ensure that you are on time.
In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.
We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.
When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this on arrival during your welcome meeting.
Finishing Point
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.
Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.
Departure Details
Airport transfers are included as part of your package, so long as you are departing as per the purchased itinerary. If you have purchased an extension, either pre or post-tour, the applicable transfer service will be forfeited from your package and you will need to make your arrangements to the starting hotel.
Where the service remains included, your tour leader will confirm the pick-up time from your hotel to the airport and this will depend on the flight that you have booked. Generally, you will be required to be at the airport approximately 3 hours before your scheduled departure.
Where the service has been forfeited due to an extended stay, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
Tour Suitability
Travel Safety
While the Middle East can occasionally experience periods of unrest, we remain vigilant and follow official guidance at all times. Please be assured that your safety is our top priority. We continuously monitor the Australian Government’s travel advice on www.Smartraveller.gov.au for all destinations and work closely with our trusted local partners to ensure your safety at all times. If any situation arises that may impact your travel plans, we’ll be in touch with updates and next steps.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here:
https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
Child Policy
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Pace
This tour is categorised as: 3 out of 5 - Balanced
Our Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travellers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.
Activity and Mobility
Our Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travellers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.
Activity snapshot
Activity: Balanced to active sightseeing across Egypt, combining city touring, museums, bazaars and iconic ancient sites. Expect stop-start walking, stairs and uneven footing at major attractions. Regular rest breaks are built into the itinerary, including during cruise days.
Typical walking distances: Approximately 3 to 5 km on sightseeing days. Days with more walking include the Pyramids of Giza, museum visits and the West Bank of Luxor.
Activity snapshot
Mobility requirements
Hotels, climate and peak periods
Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your tour.
Group Size
Minimum: 4 people Maximum: 16 people
Escorted Style
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your trip includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
Tour Type
Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.
Exclusions
Getting Around
This tour will use a private vehicle to accommodate your group, internal Domestic flights, and cruises. For the road journeys, where applicable there will be comfort stops along the way where you can freshen up, stretch your legs, use the bathroom and often, purchase refreshments. Generally, lunch stops will be taken at rest stops as they can easily accommodate our large groups.
For further information on your cruise, please see Cruise Details above.
Your flight between Cairo and Aswan will be unescorted, however your tour leaders will assist you on either side.
Hotel Ratings
Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.
This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.
Accommodation Details
We have carefully selected 5-star hotels and a deluxe Nile River Cruise. Each accommodation has been carefully chosen based on a stringent set of criteria, ensuring the high standards of comfort and convenience. Accommodation in Egypt can differ from what you might be used to at home, but rest assured, we carefully select options to ensure your stay is both comfortable and enjoyable.
For more information on your cruise accommodation, please see Cruise Details above.
Packing Essentials
We recommend you pack as lightly as possible, ensuring that you can carry and lift your luggage, and walk with it for short distances or up or down a flight of stairs.
A small lockable suitcase with wheels is ideal for this tour. This tour includes internal flights, which have luggage weight restrictions, also space for luggage storage on your coach may be limited so it is recommended that you keep your main luggage weight no more than 20kg.
Whenever possible, avoid bringing valuables. Use your hotel safe, and we recommend photocopying important documents like tickets, passport, and vaccination certificates, keeping the copies separate from the originals. Though not official, copies make it easier to obtain replacements if needed.
Luggage Limit: Due to limited space in the bus luggage compartments, it is crucial that each person limits their luggage to one piece weighing a maximum of 20kg. Additionally, you are allowed a carry-on pack that should easily fit under the seat or in small overhead compartments.
By following these guidelines and packing light, you will ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience during the tour.
Climate
Egypt has a predominantly dry desert climate, with hot, sunny days and cooler nights throughout most of the year.
Weather can vary between regions and throughout the day, so packing layers is the best way to stay comfortable across the journey.
Currency and ATMs
In Egypt, the local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Egypt relies heavily on cash, especially in markets, smaller shops, and rural areas, so it’s advisable to carry small denominations for tipping and everyday purchases.
ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas in both countries, usually offering good exchange rates. However, machines in remote regions may be out of service, so don’t rely on them exclusively.
Most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores accept credit and debit cards, with Visa and Mastercard being the most commonly accepted.
Tips:
Food and Allergies
Travelling in Egypt n offers a diverse and delicious culinary experience, rooted in generosity, tradition, and local flavours. Dishes like koshari (a mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and fried onions) and ful medames (a fava bean breakfast dish) are popular staples. Kofta, molokhia, and semolina-based sweets like basbousa are also widely enjoyed.
While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you'll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of local cuisines. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your trip. For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.
Local Customs
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, where local customs are shaped by religion, hospitality, and social respect. Modest dress, polite behaviour, and cultural awareness are appreciated throughout your journey.
When visiting mosques, religious sites, or rural communities, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and knees, and to remove your shoes before entering a mosque. Women are not required to wear a headscarf except when entering a mosque, where covering the head, shoulders, and legs is expected. Men should also avoid wearing shorts in mosques.
Haggling is common in both countries’ souks and markets, and while vendors can be persistent — especially in Egypt — a polite but firm “no, thank you” is usually effective. Respect, patience, and a sense of humour will go a long way when interacting with locals.
A friendly Arabic greeting like salaam alaikum (“peace be upon you”) is often warmly received and helps foster respectful connections.
Understanding and embracing these customs will help you feel more confident and allow for more meaningful cultural interactions.
Dress Code
Throughout Egypt, modest dress is recommended, particularly in conservative areas, rural towns, and religious sites. Both men and women should aim to cover shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal — it keeps you cool in the heat while also aligning with local expectations.
Women are not required to wear a headscarf unless visiting a mosque, and men should wear long trousers when entering religious sites. In tourist beach areas such as the Dead Sea or Red Sea resorts, swimwear is acceptable, but it’s not appropriate in public or non-tourist settings.
Dressing respectfully not only shows cultural awareness but also helps avoid unwanted attention and ensures smoother, more comfortable interactions throughout your trip.
Responsible Dining
Avoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tours in Egypt you will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ‘kitty’, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. We suggest USD$5 per person per day towards the kitty. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide, merely for the guide to tip the services of the driver and local workers during your tour. While not made compulsory, if you choose not to contribute to the kitty it means that the guide is tipping for these services out of their own pocket. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.
Tipping for your guides will be collected at the conclusion of their services. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend USD$6-8 per person per day. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.
Peak Travel Times
The best time to visit Egypt is generally from October to April, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for exploring highlights such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings and temples along the Nile, as well as the Lake Nasser region. This period is considered peak season, with particularly pleasant conditions in spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot, especially in southern Egypt including Luxor, Aswan and Lake Nasser. While this time of year typically sees fewer visitors and lower prices, travellers should be prepared for intense heat and ensure adequate sun protection.
Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, is observed in Egypt and shifts dates each year. Travelling during Ramadan offers a unique cultural insight, though some attractions may operate with reduced hours and many restaurants and cafés may close during daylight hours. Your tour leader will adjust the itinerary as required.
Understanding seasonal weather patterns and cultural events will help you make the most of your journey through Egypt.
Safety and Security
Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip.
Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.
Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.
Tourist areas in Egypt are generally safe, and the country is known for its hospitality and stability in the region. However, it’s still wise to take common-sense precautions. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in busy areas such as markets, tourist sites, and transport hubs, so keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items.
While vendors are generally polite, some may be persistent — it’s perfectly okay to politely decline and walk away. Be cautious of unsolicited offers or “guides” approaching you on the street, and stick to reputable transport services organised through your accommodation or guide, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Respecting local customs, including dressing modestly and asking permission before photographing people, goes a long way in ensuring a positive and safe experience. Most travellers find Egypt to be welcoming, friendly, and easy to explore with a bit of awareness.
Apps to Download
Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi.
Itinerary Changes
Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience.
This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your trip! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our trips. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-trip cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider.
We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.
If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.
Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it.
Health, Wellness & Fitness Requirements
All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.
When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully to assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. If we find that you are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.
You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.
Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations
We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.
Open communication helps us ensure your trip is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible.
Information for CPAP Users
If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping trips, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs.
Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your trip.
Documentation
Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list.
Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:
Here are some helpful links to get you started:
In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:
By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.
Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook
During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.
We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming trip!
Travelling in a Group
Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please ensure that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip before departure.
Community Guidelines
Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.
Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.
If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options.
Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs Guide
While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire trip, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.
Coach Transportation
The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.
While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries, we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.
For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.
Staying Connected
If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM may be possible as a final option.
We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential trip information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.
Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability.
Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.
This package is a flight Contribution only package
This package has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city. Select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and international flights will be added to your booking.
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
Please Note: Based on your departure airport of flight times, you may need to depart a day earlier to arrive on the day of your tour. Please advise if you require specific flight dates and times.
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