Abu Simbel
Destinations / Africa / Egypt / Tailor-Made Egypt: The Pyramids & The Nile River
BESPOKE LUXURY JOURNEY

Egypt: Timeless Treasures

Where ancient wisdom meets contemporary sophistication

Venture into a realm where millennia of history whisper through golden sands, where towering monuments pierce azure skies, and where the life-giving Nile writes stories of civilisation’s dawn in gleaming ripples. Egypt captivates with its ability to exist in multiple times at once: ancient temples stand alongside vibrant contemporary art galleries, whilst traditional feluccas drift past sleek river cruisers. From Cairo’s cosmopolitan energy to Aswan’s languorous charm, this is a journey through time itself, where every moment reveals new layers of human ingenuity and artistic expression.

Egypt at a Glance

Step into a land where history isn’t confined to museums but rises from the desert in monumental splendour. Here, the legendary hospitality of the Arab world meets sophisticated luxury, creating spaces where travellers can explore both ancient wonders and contemporary culture. Cairo pulses with creative energy, its modern galleries and design hotels providing elegant sanctuaries amidst the city’s beautiful chaos. In quieter moments, rooftop bars offer spectacular views across the illuminated pyramids, whilst intimate dining rooms serve innovative takes on traditional Egyptian cuisine.

The rhythm of Egyptian life flows with the Nile, each bend in the river revealing new wonders. From November to February, when desert heat gentles into perfect warmth, the country comes alive with cultural festivals and outdoor soirées. Summer brings long, languorous evenings perfect for rooftop gatherings in Cairo or sunset sailing in Aswan. While public life maintains traditional values, luxury hotels and cruise ships create sophisticated havens where international travellers can truly be themselves, enjoying impeccable service and discrete attention to detail.

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Currency

Egyptian pound (EGP)

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Language

Arabic

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Visas

Citizens of Canada, the EU and the US need a visa to visit Egypt

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Best Time To Visit

October – April

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Timezone

Eastern European Standard Time (GMT+2)

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Homosexual Activity

Illegal

10-day Travel Itinerary

This carefully orchestrated journey weaves together Egypt's most compelling experiences, from the architectural marvels of ancient civilisations to the refined pleasures of contemporary luxury. Begin in Cairo, where modernist hotels offer stunning views of age-old pyramids, before embarking on an elegant river voyage that reveals the Nile Valley's treasures. Here, experience the profound connection between past and present, while discovering how Egyptian culture elegantly balances sophistication with tradition—from innovative gastronomy to timeless artistic expressions.

DAY 1

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Cairo | First Whispers of Ancient Grandeur

Arrive in Egypt's dynamic capital, where modern luxury meets ancient mystery. After a private transfer to your sophisticated hotel—perhaps the St. Regis Cairo with its splendid Nile views—unwind in surroundings that blend contemporary elegance with subtle Pharaonic motifs. As evening approaches, toast your arrival with sundowner cocktails at a refined rooftop lounge, where the pyramids' silhouettes pierce the golden horizon.

DAY 2

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Cairo | Where Ancient Treasures Meet Modern Curation

Begin your Egyptian odyssey within the stunning Grand Egyptian Museum, where soaring modern architecture houses humanity's most precious ancient treasures. Your private Egyptologist weaves compelling narratives around each artifact, bringing millennia of history to vivid life. As afternoon light gilds the city, retreat to a private gallery for an intimate look at Cairo's contemporary art scene, where young artists reinterpret their heritage through modern expressions.

DAY 3

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Giza | Monuments of Eternal Mystery

Dawn reveals the Giza plateau in its most enchanting light, as your private guide leads you to exclusive viewing points away from the crowds. Experience the magnetic presence of the Great Pyramid, stepping inside its ancient chambers where pharaohs began their journey to the stars. Later, mount a camel for a desert expedition that culminates in a gourmet lunch at the legendary Mena House, where Churchill and kings once dined beneath pyramid views.

DAY 4

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Luxor | Valley of Eternal Stories

Wings carry you south to ancient Thebes, where morning light reveals the Temple of Luxor rising like a golden mirage from the modern city. Your private Egyptologist unveils layers of history as you wander through columned halls where pharaohs once walked. As afternoon approaches, board your elegant Nile cruise vessel—your sophisticated home for the next four nights. Watch the sunset paint the West Bank in amber hues before dining on deck, where innovative chefs blend traditional Egyptian flavours with contemporary gastronomy.

DAY 5

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The Nile | From Queens to Kings

Dawn bathes the Valley of the Kings in ethereal light as you descend into the sacred realm of pharaohs. Experience the extraordinary privilege of entering Tutankhamun's tomb, where golden treasures once glittered in eternal darkness. The magnificent tomb of Seti I reveals the pinnacle of ancient Egyptian art, its colours still vibrant after three millennia. Later, discover Queen Hatshepsut's architectural masterpiece, her temple rising in elegant terraces against towering cliffs. Return to your vessel for afternoon tea on deck, watching local life unfold along the timeless riverbanks as you sail toward Esna.

DAY 6

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The Nile | Sacred Rhythms of River Life

Begin your day exploring Karnak Temple's forest of soaring columns, where your expert guide reveals hidden symbols and sacred geometry in the morning light. As your ship continues its graceful journey south, participate in an intimate cooking class where the chef shares secrets of Egyptian cuisine—from aromatic spice blends to perfectly flaky phyllo pastries. Later, dock at Kom Ombo's unique double temple as the setting sun gilds its columns, before returning to ship for an evening of sophisticated entertainment under the stars.

DAY 7

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Aswan | Nubian Elegance

Aswan greets you with its more languid rhythm, where Africa meets the Arab world in a seamless cultural embrace. Begin at the ancient granite quarries, where the Unfinished Obelisk tells tales of ancient engineering ambition. Take a private boat to Philae Temple, floating like a jewel on its island sanctuary. As afternoon heat softens, board a traditional felucca, its billowing sails carrying you past Elephantine Island to Lord Kitchener's botanical gardens. Watch the sun set behind palm-fringed islands from the legendary terrace of the Old Cataract Hotel, where Agatha Christie once penned "Death on the Nile."

DAY 8

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Abu Simbel | Monuments of Eternal Love

Rise before dawn for a flight south to Abu Simbel, where Ramses II carved his legacy into towering cliffs. Your early arrival allows for quiet contemplation of these massive temples before the crowds arrive. Marvel at the engineering feat that raised these temples from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, preserving them for future generations. Return to Cairo in the afternoon, where your luxury hotel offers a sophisticated haven. Perhaps indulge in a hammam ritual at the spa before an evening at leisure.

DAY 9

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Cairo | Ancient Memphis to Modern Magnificence

Journey to Saqqara, where the Step Pyramid of Djoser revolutionized architecture six millennia ago. Your expert guide brings the ancient capital of Memphis to life as you explore its scattered remnants. Return to Cairo for your choice of cultural immersions: discover the depths of Coptic Cairo, where ancient churches guard precious manuscripts and icons; explore Islamic Cairo's elegant mosques and bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar; or delve into the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where royal mummies rest in dignified splendour. Crown your final evening with a private farewell dinner in a restored Ottoman palace, where innovative chefs reinterpret classic Egyptian dishes with contemporary flair.

DAY 10

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Cairo | Final Reflections

As dawn breaks over the Nile one last time, reflect on your journey through millennia of human achievement. Perhaps enjoy a final breakfast on your hotel's terrace, watching feluccas drift past in the morning light, before your private transfer to Cairo International Airport.

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Additional Recommended Experiences

Enhance your Egyptian sojourn with carefully curated extensions that reveal the country's diverse character. Consider a luxury desert camp experience in the White Desert, where otherworldly chalk formations create nature's own sculpture garden. Venture to the Red Sea coast for a few days at the sophisticated Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh, where private beaches meet world-class diving. For those seeking deeper cultural immersion, arrange private cooking classes in a Cairene family home, or join exclusive after-hours tours of major temples with leading archaeologists. Art enthusiasts might explore Alexandria's thriving contemporary scene, whilst adventure seekers can discover the Western Desert's hidden oases by private aircraft. Throughout the year, Egypt offers exclusive experiences that match its ancient grandeur with sophisticated service, ensuring your journey creates memories as enduring as the monuments themselves.

Transform Your Egypt Dreams into Reality

Allow us to craft your bespoke Egypt journey. Whether inspired by our curated itinerary or envisioning something entirely your own, we'll shape every moment to reflect your distinctive style and preferences.

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Personally crafted journey design

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Distinguished accommodations, thoughtfully selected

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Exclusive experiences and privileged access

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Expert local guides and cultural interpreters

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Private transfers with dedicated arrival service

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