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22 Day Ancient Egypt & Turkey

These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for exact group size. Enjoy features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights, and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.

Group Size
Small Group

This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.

Pace
Moderate Pace

River cruises are a relaxed, informal way to travel - there are fewer passengers on board compared to an ocean cruise, which means ample opportunity to make lifelong friends. You will pass through the world's most loved cities and towns; disembark and enjoy a shore excursion or two, or simply wander around and explore on your own. 

Cruise Style
River

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

Cooling Off Period
7 Days
Small Group Tour
2672 people have travelled to this destination

✓ Limited Time Offer - Add return international airfares for only $999
✓ Incredible sightseeing, visit the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, Abu Simbel, Alexandria, the Valley of the Kings, discover Istanbul's fascinating culture, see the warfields of Gallipoli and the ancient city of Ephesus
✓ Small group experience with no more than 20 guests
✓ All internal flights
✓ 17 nights in centrally located 4 and 5 star and boutique accommodation 
✓ Cruise the Nile for 3 nights from Aswan to Luxor
✓ Overnight train from Cairo to Aswan
✓ Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 11 dinners, including a special home-cooked dinner in a Nubian Village
✓ Fully escorted by professional English speaking tour leaders in Egypt and Turkey
✓ Dedicated private transportation throughout
✓ Airport transfers included on the last day of tour
✓ All entry fees as per the the itinerary

What we love about this tour

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Itinerary

Hotel
Hyatt Regency Cairo West or Similar

Salaam Alaikum! Welcome to Egypt. On arrival at the airport, make your way to your hotel located near the Pyramids of Giza.

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.

Try some street food – lamb shawarma, anyone? – or get a taste of Egyptian street life by visiting a cafe. Sit in an ahwa and sip traditional mint tea. The shisha pipe can be found in many ahwas and restaurants across Cairo.

Hotel
Hyatt Regency Cairo West or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

This morning, join your group for an introductory briefing where you'll get the chance to meet your fellow travellers.

Later, head out to see some of the world’s most iconic sights – the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Explore these structures that have stood tall for some 4500 years and learn about the ancient history of the monuments. The oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one to remain largely intact, the pyramids are a sight to behold.

Afterwards, make your way to the Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world's great collections of antiquities. Wander the treasure-filled halls of the museum, a highlight of which is the masses of gleaming artefacts recovered from the tomb of Tutankhamun.

Hotel
Sheraton Montazah Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today we'll drive to the port city of Alexandria, along what is known as the ‘desert road’.

Enroute, we'll visit the Commonwealth War Graves of El Alamein. It is here that two extended battles were fought during World War II. The first began on July 1, 1942, and lasted for 27 days, ending as a stalemate. After three 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.”

Afterwards, we'll continue on to Alexandria to check-in to our hotel and enjoy some free time in this seaside city.

Hotel
Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino Cairo or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today your guide will take you on a tour of the city, known for its broad beaches and corniche (seafront promenade) dotted with sun loungers and cafes.

Afterwards, prepare to delve into the catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. Heading underground, you’ll get to view the largest known Roman burial site in Egypt, complete with burial chambers, labyrinth alleyways and entertaining rooms for families coming to visit the dead.

The crypts are 20 metres below street level and date back to the Greco Roman period. What likely started as a small family tomb grew into a large number of graves that could accommodate more than 300 bodies. The tombs are organised around a central spiral staircase that leads down through several levels.

We then drive back to Cairo. On arrival, check into your hotel located close by the airport in preparation for your flight to Aswan in the morning.

Hotel
Hotel Tolip Aswan or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, take an early flight from Cairo to Aswan.

On arrival in Aswan, you will be transferred to the port where you will board a boat to take you to the Philae Temple complex, home to the Temple of Isis which was rescued from the rising waters of the Nile and relocated on Philae Island in the 1960s. It’s a marvel of decorative pylons featuring some of Egypt’s finest carvings – definitely one of the real gems of Upper Egypt.

Philae Temple is situated on an island just south of Aswan. It was built by the last dynasty of ancient Egypt, the Ptolemaic. The temple is dedicated to Isis - the goddess of healing, magic and birth, her husband Osiris and their son Horus.

Following our visit, we check into our hotel with time to relax before we enjoy sailing the Nile in a traditional wooden boat (felucca) in the afternoon followed by an authentic dinner at one of the Nubian houses.

This evening, enjoy your Inspiring Taste as we experience modern Nubian culture first-hand with a visit to Elephantine Island. On your visit you’ll join a Nubian family for dinner and experience true traditional Nubian hospitality. Here, you will encounter Nubian homes, traditional food and an unforgettable insight into the daily life of a Nubian. This is a rare and memorable experience, giving you the chance to become fully immersed in the local culture.

Hotel
Hotel Tolip Aswan or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today we set out to explore some of Aswan’s other landmarks. We begin with the unfinished obelisk, the largest known ancient obelisk – more than 3,500 years old – located in an ancient quarry in Aswan. 

It was left incomplete and now provides a fascinating look at how these great monuments were constructed.

We'll then continue to the Nubian Museum, which showcases the history, art and culture of the Nubians. This museum enables visitors to understand the complex history of the local area and its people.

Afterwards, we'll visit the Aswan High Dam, which sits behind the mighty Lake Nasser. At the time it was made (the 1960s), it was the largest dam project in the world. The creation of the reservoir necessitated the costly relocation of the ancient Egyptian temple complex of Abu Simbel, which would otherwise have been submerged.

Optional Tour - Sunset felucca sailing

Sunsets in Aswan are truly magical and there is no better way to experience them than on a traditional felucca. 

Meeting at the reception, make the short walk to the dock where you will embark the felucca and cruise for approximately 2 hours on the Nile River. Sail around the enchanting islands of Aswan. As the sun begins its descent, the sky will transform into a canvas of mesmerising hues, painting the Nile River in shades of gold, orange and crimson. Reax and sock in the breathtaking scenery while enjoying refreshing drinks on board.

Start: 4:00pm
End: 6:30pm
Inclusions: drinks onboard the felucca

Cruise
MS Opera Nile Cruise or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will awake before sunrise for an early morning start.

Sit back and relax as you drive to the ancient Abu Simbel temples, near the southern Egyptian border. You will have an early arrival into Abu Simbel to view this incredible sight. The complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Nubian Monuments.

The two enormous sandstone structures were built in the 1200s BCE by Ramses II to commemorate himself and his favourite wife Nefertari. The larger temple, dedicated to three major Egyptian deities, features four large statues of Ramses II on its façade, while the smaller temple is dedicated to the goddess of love, 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.

On our return to Aswan the rest of the day is free for you to make your own discoveries.

Later we'll check in to our Nile cruise – our floating home for the next three nights.

Driving Duration: Approximately 8 hour round trip ( with stops along the way)

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 of an 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 tend 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.

Optional Tour - Entrance to the Monastery of St Simeon

Visit the remains of the 7th century monastery, rebuilt in the 10th century, situated atop the hills overlooking Aswan and the Nile River.

Meeting at the reception, make the short walk to the dock where you will embark on the 30-minute boat ride to the West Bank of Aswan. Upon arrival, mount a camel for a 30-minute ride to the monastery where you will self-guide your visit around the historical site.

Start: 2:30pm
End: 5:30pm
Inclusions: return boat ride to West Bank, 30-minute camel ride

Hotel
MS Opera Nile Cruise or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we’ll journey ashore to visit Kom Ombo Temple. Dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris, this unusual double temple was constructed during the Ptolemaic period, which lasted from 108 to 47 BC. 

Set dramatically on the banks of the Nile, 47km north of Aswan and 168km south of Luxor, the soaring, chunky columns of the Great Temple of Kom Ombo are a magnificent sight as you arrive from the river.

The temple is well preserved, especially detail on the murals and columns. One unique engraving is thought to be among the first representations of medical and surgical instruments. 

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 catch a feel of this glorious history for yourself.

Returning to the cruise boat, we’ll continue travelling upriver, with free time relaxing on the sundeck and taking in the surrounding sights – from fishermen casting nets and farmers working their land to the desert hills that frame the lush riverbanks.

Hotel
MS Opera Nile Cruise or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we will moor near Edfu – home to ancient settlements and temples, as well as a bustling town centre and a bazaar.

Return to the boat for your final evening on one of the world’s greatest rivers. Tonight we overnight in Luxor.

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.

Hotel
Steigenberger Resort Achti or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Your Nile cruise comes to an end in the open-air museum of Luxor – from the spectacular temple complex of Karnak to the Valley of the Kings, Luxor is full of wonderfully-preserved reminders of the pharaohs.

Today 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.

The rest of the day is yours: relax, shop in the excellent bazaar, or perhaps experience the atmosphere of a local teahouse.

Optional Tour - Luxor Temple

Situated on the East Bank of the Nile River, in the city of Luxor, Luxor Temple was built approximately 1400 BC. The site is over 73 sq km and exhibits obelisks, giant statues, an Avenue of Sphinx statues, the Grand colonnade and the Barque Shrine of Theban Triad. Viewing is as majestic at night as it is during the day.

Please note: the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.

Start: 4:00pm
End: 6:00pm
Inclusions: return transfers to temple, entrance into Luxor Temple

Hotel
Steigenberger Resort Achti or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today we'll discover some of the many wonders of ancient Thebes. Our first stop is 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.

We'll continue onto the spectacular royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings. Buried under the arid hills here are the tombs of more than 60 pharaohs, many richly decorated with reliefs and paintings. Explore this sprawling and spectacular place with your guide, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom (16th to 11th century BCE) were secretly interred for all eternity, and where archaeological discoveries are still being made. Your guide will explain the history of and legends surrounding these remarkable people, their funerary rites, and the significance of the many paintings and hieroglyphics, still well-preserved in the deepest tombs.

You will visit three of the most interesting royal tombs and 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 the scale and elegance of her temple certainly proves a point!

The afternoon is yours to explore – perhaps you'd like to shop in the market or visit the world's first Mummification Museum to discover the secrets of pharaonic preservation.

Hotel
Marriott Hurghada Beach Resort or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

Today we'll bid farewell to the Nile and drive east to the beachside town of Hurghada. The Nile valley's verdant landscape is soon replaced with the barren Eastern Desert. Passing through rocky hills, we'll begin to catch glimpses of the glittering waters of the Red Sea and the rugged bulk of the Sinai Peninsula looms through the haze on the opposite shore.

A vibrant beach resort, Hurghada is by no means a typical adventure destination. Known for its underwater reefs and marine life, it’s a popular diving destination. After checking into your hotel, take a walking tour with your guide to get your bearings, and check out some of the local restaurants and eateries.

You will have the remainder of the evening at leisure, plus enjoy a sumptuous buffet dinner tonight in your 5-star hotel.

Optional Tour - Hurghada City Tour

In the afternoon you have the opportunity for an optional City tour in Hurghada. You will be picked up and transferred to the heart of the old city of Hurghada, visit the Ships workshop, the dock nearby, the fish market, and the local market, you may also visit a mosque and a church.

Please note: the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.

Start: 2:30pm
End: 5:30pm
Inclusions: return transportation, private guided tour

Hotel
Marriott Hurghada Beach Resort or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

Today is yours to relax in this Red Sea beachside town.

Optional Tour - Red Sea snorkelling

Experience Egypt’s underwater splendours on this full-day Red Sea snorkelling trip by boat from Hurghada. Cruise out onto the sparkling Red Sea and drop anchor at three prime snorkelling locations. Don your own snorkelling gear or the provided equipment and enjoy ample time to float through the crystal waters past dazzling corals, exotic fish and perhaps even turtles and rays. 

Start: 9:00am
End: 3:30pm
Inclusions: return transportation to the embarkation point, snorkelling gear (mask & flippers), visit to 3 different snorkelling spots, lunch onboard

Hotel
Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino Cairo or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today we'll leave Hurghada and take the short flight back to Cairo.

Upon our return to the capital we'll enjoy an essential Egyptian experience – a visit to Khan El-Khalili bazaar, a memorable shopping experience in the historic centre of Islamic Cairo. Even if you are not looking to buy, take a walk through the colourful winding alleys of this labyrinth district you’ll feel like you stepped back in time to an old Arab souk. Selling handicrafts, delicious spices, fabrics and clothes, it’s been a shopping district for thousands of years.

We'll then continue to our hotel for free time.

Optional Tour - Home Cooked Dinner with an Egyptian Family in Cairo

Sit down for a home-cooked meal with a local family. During this experience, you'll get to visit a local family and learn about Egyptian culture and traditions but most importantly, enjoy a delicious and authentic home-cooked meal.

Starts: approx: To be confirmed on tour by your Tour Guide.

Duration: approx. 3 hours

Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.

Hotel
Port Bosphorus Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today, bid farewell to your Egypt tour leader and get ready for the next leg of your journey as you are transferred to the airport for your flight to Istanbul, Turkey. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel and the remainder of the day is yours, free to explore Istanbul.

Hotel
Port Bosphorus Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

After breakfast, you enjoy a fully guided tour of the only city to span two continents, visiting the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace (including Hagia Irene) and the Hippodrome. Take in the majesty of the sixth-century Hagia Sophia, whose stunning construction is said to have changed the history of architecture. When not erecting splendid buildings, the Byzantine Emperors loved a bit of entertainment, and the Hippodrome of Constantinople was their stadium. Inspect some of the decorative statues and obelisks that remain, harking back to a time when this space would play host to thousands of chariot racing fans.

Cruise between two continents on the stretch of water that separates Europe from Asia in the afternoon with an optional half day Bosphorous cruise.

Hotel
MD Barbaros Hotel (Boutique) or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

One of the most emotionally touching places in Turkey, today we visit the WWI Battlefields of Gallipoli including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair Memorials, ANZAC Cove, The Nek, Johnston's Jolly, original trenches and tunnels. We'll spend a moment in quiet contemplation, looking down upon the rough hills and gullies that became the graveyard for so many thousands of young men from both sides. We’ll tour the former battlefields and find remnants of trenches used by the Turkish soldiers.

After paying our respects, we continue to Canakkale. Enjoy dinner this evening.

Hotel
Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

Step back in time today as we visit Troy and its famed Trojan Horse, followed by a tour of the magnificent acropolis of Pergamon. Its impressive temples and library made it a renowned cultural and political centre in its time. You’ll see the remnants of the ancient city walls and the famed wooden horse as you learn about the groundbreaking archaeological digs and how the site has baffled historians.

We continue to Kusadasi where dinner is included tonight.

Hotel
Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

Absorb yourself in history today with a guided tour of Ephesus and a visit to the site of the Temple of Artemis. Marvel at the vast amphitheatre, stroll the marble streets once walked by Cleopatra and Mark Antony, and wander through the gymnasium, baths and beautifully restored Library of Celsus. Feel the mystical atmosphere of the ancient city and theatre before continuing to the former Greek village of Sirince, famous for its fruit wines. Carpet weaving has long traditions in Turkey and at the carpet village we learn how the carpets are made by hand and what determines their value.

Hotel
Adem Pira Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we will enjoy a display of locally handcrafted leather goods before heading to the magnificent white calcium terraces, known as Travertines, in Pamukkale where we also tour the ancient city of Hierapolis. Founded by the King of Pergamon in 190 BCE, it had become an important Roman bath centre by the second century CE. The extensive ruins of Hierapolis are well worth exploring and include a theatre, temple, holy area, monumental fountain, bath, basilica and necropolis. Take a dip, amongst ancient columns, in the hot springs that were used in Roman times for their therapeutic powers.

Hotel
Port Bosphorus Hotel or Similar
Meals
Breakfast

Today you head back to Istanbul. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight and be back in Istanbul, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in time for a bit of last minute shopping or exploring.

Meals
Breakfast

As they say, all good things must come to an end. Today marks the end of your incredible tour through Turkey. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight home.

Inclusions

  • Incredible sightseeing, visit the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, Abu Simbel, Alexandria, the Valley of the Kings, discover Istanbul's fascinating culture, see the warfields of Gallipoli and the ancient city of Ephesus
  • Small group experience with no more than 20 guests
  • All internal flights
  • 17 nights in centrally located 4 and 5 star and boutique accommodation
  • Cruise the Nile for 3 nights from Aswan to Luxor
  • Overnight train from Cairo to Aswan
  • Breakfast daily, 3 lunches and 11 dinners, including a special home-cooked dinner in a Nubian Village
  • Fully escorted by professional English speaking tour leaders in Egypt and Turkey
  • Dedicated private transportation throughout
  • Airport transfers included on the last day of tour
  • All entry fees as per the the itinerary

  • Cairo – See the greatest iconic structures ever created by man, the spellbinding Pyramids and the Sphinx
  • Cairo – Visit the Egyptian Museum to discover Egypt’s rich and fascinating history
  • Cairo – Explore the colourful, memorable shopping experience at Khan El-Khalili bazaar
  • Alexandria – See the picturesque 15-century Citadel of Qaitbay
  • Alexandria – Delve into the catacombs, the largest-known Roman burial site in Egypt
  • El Alamein – Visit the Commonwealth War Graves and War Museum at this important WWII site
  • Aswan – See the beautiful Temple of Isis, with some of Egypt’s finest carvings
  • Aswan – Join a Nubian family for a traditional dinner in their home, enjoying authentic food and true Nubian hospitality
  • Aswan – Visit the largest known ancient obelisk, more than 3,500 years old
  • Aswan – Sail the Nile in an authentic felucca sailboat
  • Abu Simbel - Visit the imposing Temple of Ramses II, part of the UNESCO-listed Nubian Monuments
  • Nile Cruise – Embark on Nile River cruise for three nights, from laidback Aswan to vibrant Luxor
  • Kom Ombo – See the unusual double Temple of Kom Ombo
  • Luxor – Discover wonderfully-preserved reminders of the Pharaohs, like Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon
  • Luxor – Explore the spectacular royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings
  • Istanbul – Visit the Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum and the Hippodrome
  • Pamukkale – Visit the ruins of Hierapolis and the ancient Roman baths that are said to date back to 190AD
  • Kusadasi – Walk around the village of Selcuk and visit the last remaining column of the Temple of Artemis
  • Ephesus – Explore Ephesus, arguably the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world, which features the iconic Library of Celsus and a huge amphitheatre
  • Troy – See the remnants of the ancient city walls and the famed wooden horse
  • Canakkale – Pay a visit to a weavers' association in Bergama and see first-hand how Turkish carpets are made
  • Gallipoli – Visit the beach and cemeteries of Anzac Cove and the memorials of Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair

Inspiring Stays

  • Spend three-nights cruising the Nile on your floating hotel.

Inspiring Sights

  • You’ll have the choice between 1 of 6 bonus sightseeing experiences to enhance your journey. You may choose to include 1 optional Inspiring Sights throughout your tour, free as part of your package (options listed under 'Optional Tours').

Inspiring Tastes

  • Experience modern Nubian culture first-hand with a visit to Elephantine Island. On your visit you’ll join a Nubian family for dinner and experience traditional Nubian hospitality.

For more information on your Nile cruise, click HERE.

Fine Print

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:

  1. At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
  2. Pay a 1st installment of $4,500.00 per person within 28 days.
  3. Pay a 2nd installment of $0.00 per person within 0 days.
  4. You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Flight Information:

Please refer to conditions below, which are agreed to at time of purchase. 

Can I extend my stay pre- and/or post-tour?

This depends on the package you are booking. 

Where available, extensions must be added at time of purchase and cannot be added post-purchase unless inside the 7-day cooling off period.

We can assist in arranging your airfares to accommodate an extension; however, you must also book the additional nights’ accommodation through us at time of booking (where available as an add-on):

  • At check-out, please ensure you add the numbers of extra nights you would like pre- and/or post-tour (where available as an add-on). This can only be done at time of booking and cannot be added after purchase.
  • Some packages may only offer the opportunity to book one (1) extra night pre and/or post. If you want more nights’ than what is available to book you must choose Land Only (refer below).
  • If there is no option to add additional nights’ accommodation to your booking, then extending your stay with Inspiring Vacations is not an option and you can instead choose to change your booking to Land Only so you can arrange both your airfares and additional accommodation independently. 

When adding additional nights to your booking, the cost of the extra nights’ accommodation will be reflected on your invoice and payable with the final balance. 

Airfare surcharges may apply if extending due to airfare seasonal changes and possible fare differences. These are payable at the time of selecting your desired airfare. 

The second installment of your booking must be made before airfares can be booked. 

Outside of extending your stay you must select Land Only if:

  • You would like to stopover
  • You would like to upgrade your cabin class
  • You would like a specific airline booked 
  • You would like to extend longer than what is available within the package 
  • You intend to book additional accommodation independently
  • You would like to arrive and/or depart from another city or airport or; 
  • Your preferred domestic departure city point (ie Perth, Australia) is not an option 

If you are interested in one of the above options, please select LAND ONLY at time of check-out and you will need to arrange your own airfares. Inspiring Vacations will not be accountable for flight delays or missed tour components due to late arrival or airline changes.

How to book my flights through the flight portal:

As the travel industry moves towards providing customers with more self-service options, we are excited that our customers will have the opportunity to book their flights through our flight portal. If this option is available to you, you will be notified once flights are available to book for your selected departure date. Flights may be booked by Inspiring Vacations at any time.

Please visit our FAQ for more information.

Conditions of flights for this package bookable by Inspiring Vacations:

  • Flight Offer valid from select departure cities within the purchase path only
  • Flights will be booked with the best available airline/s with luggage included. Low-cost carriers may be booked in conjunction with a full-service airline. Depending on the carrier, entertainment and meals may not be included but payable at an extra cost on-board. We cannot specify or guarantee the airline booked. If you would like a specific airline, please select land only. 
  • Flights may not be direct and may include multiple connections
  • Due to disrupted airline schedules globally with the pandemic, stopovers/transit times may be longer than usual (up to 12 hours in duration in some circumstances).
  • Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable; any changes will be subject to the airline rules and change fees. 
  • Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required at the time of submitting your traveller booking form. Any error in the names submitted will be subject to fees to amend with the airline or the ticket may be non-refundable with the purchase of a new ticket required. 
  • Depending on departure date and time of booking, the required booking class for airfare offer may be too far in advance to book with the appropriate airline.
  • If the required booking class is unavailable at time of booking, surcharges may apply. Total cost is final only at time of ticketing. Once issued, air tickets are subject to amendment and cancellation fees or may be non-refundable
  • Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are beyond our control and it is the responsibility of the customer to ensure they are familiar with the most up to date airline schedule prior to departure
  • After booking, the price payable may be subject to change as a result of factors beyond the control of Inspiring Vacations. Inspiring Vacations reserves the right to increase the price payable and this will be reflected on the customer's invoice. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, airline taxes, airfare increases and fuel surcharges.
  • Internal airfares (where applicable and included in the itinerary) will be using a local carrier and may include low-cost carriers without meals or entertainment. Checked baggage will still be included for each passenger. Any additional baggage required is payable at time of check-in. 
  • If you are travelling with another party on a separate booking, we cannot guarantee that the same flights will be booked for all parties, as this strictly depends on availability. 
  • All tickets will include 20 kilos checked baggage per person, along with 7 kilos of hand luggage to restrictions with internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation.
  • You will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters are not included. If travelling over the recommended amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable directly.

Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points

Inspiring Vacations do not arrange seat selection. It is important to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats or they may charge a fee to do so. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

Online check-in 

Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.

This package includes international airfares or has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city.

If international airfares are included this will be stated in the ‘Inclusions’ section

Alternatively, if international airfares can be added to your booking you will be able to 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 flights will be added to your booking.

Conditions of flights for this package bookable by Inspiring Vacations:

  • Flight Offer valid from select departure cities within the purchase path only
  • Flights will be booked with the best available airline/s with luggage included. Low-cost carriers may be booked in conjunction with a full-service airline. Depending on the carrier, entertainment and meals may not be included but payable at an extra cost on-board. We cannot specify or guarantee the airline booked. If you would like a specific airline, please request this at the time of purchase. To make a flight request, please click ‘Book Now’ and select Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?  By selecting this option you will be sent a request form after completing your purchases to make your request. 
  • Flights may not be direct and may include multiple connections
  • Due to disrupted airline schedules globally with the pandemic, stopovers/transit times may be longer than usual (up to 12 hours in duration in some circumstances).
  • Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable; any changes will be subject to the airline rules, Airline change fees and an Inspiring Vacations change fee of $250 per person.
  • Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required at the time of submitting your traveller booking form. Any error in the names submitted will be subject to an Inspiring Vacations name change fee of $150 plus any applicable fees charged by the airline, or the ticket may be non-refundable with the purchase of a new ticket required. 
  • If the required booking class is unavailable at time of booking, surcharges may apply. Total cost is final only at time of ticketing. Once issued, air tickets are subject to amendment and cancellation fees or may be non-refundable
  • Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are outside of our control. It is important that you, as the customer, stay up-to-date with the latest airline schedule information prior to your departure. If a schedule change results in extended transits or an earlier/later departure from your destination, any additional accommodation or alternative arrangements will be at the traveler's expense.
  • After booking, the price payable may be subject to change as a result of factors beyond the control of Inspiring Vacations. Inspiring Vacations reserves the right to increase the price payable and this will be reflected on the customer's invoice. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, airline taxes, airfare increases and fuel surcharges.
  • Internal airfares (where applicable and included in the itinerary) will be using a local carrier and may include low-cost carriers without meals or entertainment. Checked baggage will still be included for each passenger. Any additional baggage required is payable at time of check-in. 
  • If you are travelling with another party on a separate booking, we cannot guarantee that the same flights will be booked for all parties, as this strictly depends on availability. 
  • You will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters are not included. If travelling over the recommended amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable directly.
  • In the event of that you no-show on your scheduled flight, please be aware the airline will require you to pay a no show fee, Airline reissue fee plus any additional airfare and taxes. Inspiring Vacations will also charge a $250 admin fee to assist re accommodating you on the next available flight. Please note that depending on the airline's policy, purchasing a new ticket may be required.

 

Baggage

Included baggage differs based on your country of origin. Included baggage will be as per the following:

Country of Origin

Carry-on Baggage

Checked Baggage

Australia

7kgs

20kgs

New Zealand

7kgs

20kgs

United States of America

15lbs

45lbs

Canada

15lbs

45lbs

India

7kgs

20kgs

United Kingdom

7kgs

20kgs


Baggage allowances provided by the airline might differ to the values stated above. However limitations are required due to transport storage restrictions on your selected tour or package.

Flight requests, amendments or preferences

We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalised quote tailored to your specific requirements.

To make a flight request, please click ‘Book Now’ and select Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?  By selecting this option you will be sent a request form after completing your purchase to make your request.

We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:

  • Airline Preferences - You may wish to fly with a particular airline
  • Cabin Preferences - These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
  • Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) - You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.
  • Meal Requests - You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
  • Seat Requests - If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.

We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:

  • Stopovers - Is where you might want to stop in transit for a certain amount of days prior to your tour or after your tour.
  • One way flights
  • Different start or end city to the tour - you may not amend the arrival or departure city of your itinerary. 
  • Around the world tickets  - Is when a ticket includes multiple stops in different continents.
  • Return home to a different city from the one you departed.
  • Frequent Flyer point redemption - Is when an airline allows you to redeem points to pay for your flights or upgrade your ticket.  

If we can’t fulfill your request and you still wish to proceed with the booking, please select Land Only (excluding UK customers). This will allow you to travel on the land portion of the package without the included airfares. You will then be able to arrange your own flights separately.

FAQs

For more frequently asked questions please view our FAQs  section. 

Online check-in 

Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.

Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorised as a “3”.

3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. 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 (AUD$7 approx) 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 guide will be collected at the commencement or conclusion of their services in each country. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend USD$6-8 (AUD$8-12 approx) 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.

Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control

Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,900.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.

Triple Share
Not available.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.

Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.

Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.

Visas may be required.

Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.

Group Size
12-20 people.

Please note that some of your fellow travellers may be travelling on an alternative combination of our Middle East tours so your group may change as you travel from one country to another.

Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.

To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

  • Sunset felucca sailing (Day 6) - $64 per person
  • Entrance to the Monastery of St Simeon (Day 7) - $54 per person
  • Luxor Temple (Day 10) - $36 per person
  • Hurghada City Tour (Day 12) - $54 per person
  • Red Sea snorkelling (Day 13) - $127 per person
  • Home Cooked Dinner with an Egyptian Family in Cairo (Day 14) - $73 per person

Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.

Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.

For those of you who may prefer not to experience the overnight train, spend an extra night in Cairo and fly to Aswan/Luxor. Selecting this option includes:
 
  • Removal of overnight train from Cairo
  • Additional night in Cairo hotel
  • Flight from Cairo to Aswan/Luxor
  • Airport transfers

Upgrade Costs

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

  • $294.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $275.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

  • $459.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
  • $440.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

  • International Airfares (optional)
  • Arrival airport transfers
  • Visas (if applicable)
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Tipping
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses

Click HERE for more information on weather in Egypt.

Click HERE for more information on weather in Turkey.

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