Discover Egypt and the Nile Valley [waitlist only]

October 07 - 20, 2023

Length: 14 days

Region(s): Africa

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Cruise, Land

Embark in Esna aboard a private dahabiya—a traditional Egyptian sailing vessel—for four nights on the Nile River.

Operated by Orbridge

Tour Highlights

Enjoy two full days exploring Cairo, visiting the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum—the largest archaeological museum in the world, and Khan El-Khalili bazaar.
In Luxor, view the Karnak Temple Complex—one of the largest religious buildings in the world, which includes contributions from approximately 30 pharaohs over thousands of years.
Travel beside the Nile to Abydos to marvel at the colorful carvings in the Temple of Seti I and view the Abydos King List, which was instrumental to understanding Ancient Egyptian history.
On the west bank of Luxor, visit the Valley of the Kings and Nobles, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon.
Embark in Esna aboard a private dahabiya—a traditional Egyptian sailing vessel—for four nights on the Nile River.
Sail to Elephantine Island, the only ongoing excavation site open to tourists, to view its sacred temples and traditional Nubian villages.
During an optional excursion (additional fee), view the temples of Abu Simbel carved into a massive rock cliff, which were relocated and perfectly reconstructed after building the High Dam in the early 1960s.

For all reservations made on or after October 1, 2022, cancellations received within 30 days of the date of reservation are refunded in full. Cancellations made 31 days after date of reservation but more than 90 days (195 days for Antarctica and Trans-Siberian Railway) are subject to a $350 per person administrative fee for main program cancellations and a $200 per person administrative fee for pre and/or post tour cancellations. Cancellations made 90 or fewer days prior to tour departure (195 or fewer days for Antarctica and Trans-Siberian Railway) will be assessed a cancellation fee based on date of cancellation. Full details and timelines, please refer to the Terms and Conditions PDF, located under Additional Resources.

* Cal lecturer’s participation cannot be guaranteed and is contingent upon a minimum number of paying travelers.

Activity Level 3

What to expect: These trips feature long touring days with travel via motor coach, ship, zodiac, all-terrain vehicle, or train. Travelers are required to board transportation without assistance as well as stand and walk over uneven terrain for extended periods of time. Some tours may include optional higher-intensity activities and travel at higher altitudes with steep ascents and descents. Outings last four to six hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk four to six miles, or 6,900–9,200 steps, each day.