Egypt & the Eternal Nile

The Great Sphinx, Giza

October 29 - November 12, 2027

Length: 15 days

Region(s): Africa

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Land, River Cruise, Small Group Tours

Travel through the heart of ancient Egypt with an expert Egyptian guide, tracing a timeless route from vibrant Cairo and the Great Pyramids to Abu Simbel and the Upper Nile. Cruise across Lake Nasser through the old Nubian homeland, then follow the classic course of the Nile from Aswan to Luxor before returning to Cairo, taking in monumental temples, desert landscapes, and unforgettable riverside scenes along the way.

Operated by Odysseys Unlimited

not including airfare, airline taxes/fees, or transfers

Tour Details Reservation Request

Tour Highlights

Spend time in Cairo exploring major ancient sites, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, and the historic areas of Memphis and Sakkara.
Walk through Old Cairo on guided touring that reveals early Christian, Islamic, and medieval layers of the city.
Visit Cairo’s newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) to view one of the world’s most important collections of pharaonic treasures.
Fly south to admire the dramatic temples of Abu Simbel, relocated stone by stone to save them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser.
Attend a sound and light show at Abu Simbel, seeing the colossal statues and temple façades illuminated against the desert night.
Cruise on Lake Nasser through the ancient Nubian homeland, with views of remote temples and stark, beautiful shorelines.
Explore Aswan’s temples at Kalabsha and other nearby sites that highlight the blending of Egyptian and Nubian history.
Sail on the Nile by traditional felucca, gliding past palm-fringed banks and islands as the river traffic drifts by.
Continue with a classic Nile River cruise, traveling between Aswan and Luxor in relaxed comfort while visiting key sites along the way.
Stop at the Aswan High Dam to learn about its role in modern Egypt and its impact on the region.
Wander through the vast temple complexes of Karnak and Luxor, where towering columns, obelisks, and reliefs evoke the power of the New Kingdom pharaohs.
Venture into the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens to see richly decorated tombs that preserve vivid scenes from ancient Egyptian belief and daily life.
Savor Egypt’s incomparable historic atmosphere throughout the journey, from bustling souks and river sunsets.

* 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.