Tag: egypt

9 Day Cairo Itinerary
AfricaGate 1 ConnectionsMediterranean

9 Day Cairo Itinerary

on September 21, 2026

Ancient history doesn’t get more fascinating than Egypt’s. In this Gate 1 Travel Stay & Explore tour, travelers will embark on a nine-day adventure in Cairo and it’s surrounding area. Learn about the city’s ancient history, all while getting to see iconic landmarks such as Great Pyramid of Giza, Memphis, the capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom, and the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser.

Quick Facts

  • Tour Length: 9 Days
  • Destination: Cairo, Egypt
  • Trip Type: Stay & Explore Tour
  • Hotel Nights: 7 nights in Cairo
  • Tour Focus: Ancient history, culture, architecture & local experiences
  • Major Highlights: Great Pyramid of Giza, Grand Egyptian Museum, Memphis & Step Pyramid of Djoser
  • Cultural Experiences: Historic Cairo walking tour, religious landmarks, perfume shop & El Khalili Bazaar
  • Optional Experience: Full Day Luxor with Flights
  • Best For: History enthusiasts, culture seekers & travelers looking for a flexible Cairo experience

Day 1

On Tuesday, travelers will depart for Egypt.

Day 2

Once arrived in Cairo, the capital of Egypt, you’ll transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Day 3

Travelers will get their day started by heading to Old Cairo in the morning. Old Cairo is the original home of the Coptic Christians, one of the world’s oldest Christian denominations. Travelers will get to visit the Hanging Church (built in the 7th century), Abu Serga (believed to be where the Holy Family took refuge in Egypt), a Jewish synagogue, and one the oldest mosques in Cairo, Ibn Tulun. After seeing all these religious sites, stop at a local perfume shop, where you’ll explore a diverse collection of traditional and exotic scents, while learning about the art of perfume making. Lastly in the late afternoon, embark on a walking tour that takes you through Cairo’s historic center.

Cairo City

Day 4

This morning, get ready to visit the iconic Pyramids of Giza, built during the 3rd and 4th dynasties of the Old Kingdom. Get an up-close view of the Great Pyramid, built for the Pharaoh Khufu, as well as the Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure. That’s not all, you’ll also be able to view the great Sphinx of Giza, the legendary statue with the head of a human and the body of a lion, amazingly carved out of a single piece of limestone. Continue with a visit to the splendid new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), located near the iconic Pyramids of Giza. This state-of the-art museum houses the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. Once you’re back at the hotel, don’t miss Gate 1 Travel’s optional Nile Dinner Cruise. Travelers will embark on a delightful cruise along the iconic Nile River and discover the beauty of the ancient Egyptian city by night. Enjoy a Tanoura dance show and later watch a belly dancer perform mesmerizing routines. Take in the views of the city’s sparkling lights as you savor local specialties for dinner.

Cairo Pyramids

Day 5

Today is free for you to explore Cairo on your own or join the optional Full Day Alexandria tour. Discover the legendary city of Alexandria, a culturally rich seaside metropolis and Egypt’s second largest city. First visit the Roman amphitheater, then continue to the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a necropolis hewn into a cliff that consists of 3 levels, dating from the 2nd century AD. Finish with viewing the Roman triclinium, a funeral banquet hall to honor the dead. Then visit the Royal Jewelry Museum, where you’ll view precious artifacts, jewels, and jewelry of the Muhammad Ali Dynasty that ruled Egypt from 19th to the mid-20th century. The optional tour caps off the day with lunch at a local restaurant with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Alexandria Egypt

Day 6

Today is where you’ll visit another city, Memphis. Memphis was the capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom, founded by Pharaoh Menes around 3100 BC. Today, the city stands as an open-air museum highlighted by a giant statue of Ramses II. Then, continue to Sakkara, the site of hundreds of tombs where you’ll view the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser, considered to be the oldest pyramid in Egypt. After seeing these ancient landmarks, stop for lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to carpet shop in the surrounding area. Finish the day by exploring Khan El Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s most famous souk. Established in the 14th century, this vibrant market is a treasure trove of traditional crafts, jewelry, spices, textiles, antiques, and souvenirs.

Khan El Khalili Bazaar Egypt

Day 7

Travelers can spend this day at leisure in Cairo or join the optional Full Day Luxor with Flights. First transfer to the airport to get to Luxor. On arrival, you’ll begin the exploration of the magnificent West Bank. Visit the UNESCO listed Valley of the Kings, the necropolis of Thebes, and admire the tombs of Egypt’s pharaohs from the 18th to the 20th dynasties. Next, head to the mountainside Temple of Hatshepsut, a colonnaded structure surrounded by cliffs and learn about the life of Queen Hatshepsut, Egypt’s longest-reigning female ruler. Conclude the optional tour at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. These imposing figures, each towering at 600 feet high, were originally designed to guard his mortuary temple. That night, return to Cairo by flight.

Luxor Temple

Day 8

Spend your last day in Cairo at leisure or join another optional tour where you’ll visit the Civilization Museum & Citadel. First visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where you’ll be amazed by its extensive collection of more than 50,000 artifacts, depicting the several stages of the development of Egyptian civilization from the Predynastic period to the modern age. Next, visit a jewelry shop. Browse the extensive collection of uniquely crafted gold jewelry and notice the array of distinctive cartouches, local symbols of good luck and protection from evil. Then, visit the Saladin Citadel of Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive structure, located in central Cairo is a medieval Islamic fortification. Lunch is included in this tour. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager.

Saladin Citadel of Cairo

Day 9

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

A 9-Day Journey Through the Heart of Egypt

Gate 1 Travel’s 9 Day Tastes of Cairo is the perfect tour for those looking to explore the local scene of Cairo while also getting to see some of the most famous landmarks of all time. From the Pyramids of Giza, to the Sphinx, and even the impressive structure of the Saladin Citadel, every day has something that brings you closer to both modern-and past-day Cairo. If interested in the rest of our Egypt itinerary, click here. And what Egyptian landmark would you like to see? Share this post and let us know!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main highlights of the Cairo tour?
Highlights include the Great Pyramid of Giza, Grand Egyptian Museum, Memphis, the Step Pyramid of Djoser, historic Cairo, and El Khalili Bazaar.

Will I have free time to explore Cairo?
Yes. The Stay & Explore format combines guided sightseeing with independent time, allowing travelers to customize portions of their experience.

Is this tour good for travelers interested in ancient history?
Yes. Ancient Egyptian history is a major focus, with visits to the Pyramids, Grand Egyptian Museum, Memphis, and Sakkara among the itinerary’s key experiences.

Cairo
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How to Explore Cairo & the Nile River – Must-See Sights and Tips

on June 23, 2025

A Gateway to Ancient Wonders

Welcome to Egypt, one of the world’s greatest ancient civilizations. The country’s two most famous locations are its bustling capital, Cairo, and the historic Nile River. Cairo is the largest city in the Mediterranean and North Africa; it is in Northern Egypt. In relation to the city, the Nile River flows through it. The Nile is the longest river in the world, resulting in a total of 4,132 miles. Travelers can explore both iconic locations on Gate 1’s guided tour, the 9 Day Classic Egypt with 4 Day Nile Cruise.

Uncovering the Treasures of Cairo

When visiting Cairo, be ready to explore, there are so many historical things to see. On Gate 1’s guided tour, 9 Day Tastes of Cairo, travelers will have the opportunity to experience numerous ancient sights. You can take a walking tour of Cairo’s historic center and visit the famed El Khalili Bazaar, or marvel at the oldest structure of the “Seven Wonders of the Ancient Word,” the Great Pyramid of Giza. And that’s not all, view the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser, built by architect Imhotep and explore the Egyptian Museum. This museum houses the world’s most extensive collection of Pharaonic antiquities.

Cairo City

Cruising the Legendary Nile

No trip to Egypt is complete without a journey along the legendary Nile. Travelers who book with Gate 1 can embark on a week-long cruise on the Nile; this guided Egypt tour is the 15 Day Crown of Egypt with Hurghada & 7 Day Nile Cruise. The first morning of the cruise provides travelers with a sightseeing tour of the East Bank of Luxor. Then visit the magnificent Temples of Karnak, these date back over 3,000 years. You also will get to walk along the avenue of the Sphinxes and marvel at the Hypostyle Hall with its 134 massive sandstone columns. The next day, you will be taken on a tour of the imposing Greco-Roman Temple of Kom Ombo, that is dedicated to Horus, the Sky God, and Sobek, the Crocodile God. This is a must-see for those who love Egyptian mythology and architecture.

Nile Feluccas

When to Go and What to Expect

If you’re wondering when to visit Egypt, the ideal time is between October to April when temperatures are milder. Thankfully, a majority of Gate 1’s Egypt guided tours start in September and end in May.

Tips for Travelers:

  • Dress modestly and comfortably. Light layers and breathable fabrics are ideal.
  • Bring sun protection, including hats and sunscreen.
  • English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to explore ancient artifacts, a lively city in Cairo, or just relax on a beautiful cruise of the Nile River, then Egypt is the place for you.

Interested in exploring Egypt with Gate 1? Click here to discover all our travel packages and start planning your trip today!

Abu-Simbel
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Explore the Magnificence of Egyptian Temples

on April 9, 2024

Egyptian temples stand as timeless monuments, embodying the grandeur and mystique of ancient worlds. Each stone tells a story of devotion, power, and architectural brilliance, inviting modern travelers to embark on a journey through history. Here are some of the most iconic and inspiring temples open to visitors in Egypt today. 

Luxor Temple: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu

The Luxor Temple is located at the heart of ancient Thebes. Dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, it mesmerizes visitors with its colossal statues, imposing pylons, and intricately carved reliefs. Many visitors feel that Luxor Temple exudes a surreal aura, transporting you to a bygone era of divine worship and royal ceremonies.

Edfu Temple: Horus the Avenger

Nestled on the west bank of the Nile, the Edfu Temple stands as one of the best-preserved shrines in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus. Built during the Ptolemaic period, this temple is a masterpiece of Greco-Egyptian architecture, adorned with elaborate inscriptions that narrate the mythic struggle between Horus and his nemesis, Seth.

Philae Temple: The Goddess Isis

Philae Temple enchants visitors with its sublime beauty. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this island sanctuary served as a center of pilgrimage and worship for millennia. The 1960’s construction of the Aswan Dam prompted an effort to preserve Philae Temple, seeing it relocated to a new island one piece at a time. Today it still stands as a testament to the importance of preserving heritage.

Abu Simbel Temples: Rameses II and Nefertari

In the desolate sands of Nubia rise the colossal Abu Simbel Temples, commissioned by the mighty pharaoh Ramses II to immortalize his reign and deify his glory. Carved into the cliffs overlooking Lake Nasser, the twin temples of Abu Simbel are dedicated to Ramses II himself and his beloved queen, Nefertari. This is just one of the many awe-inspiring stops on our 13 Day Crown of Egypt with 7 Day First Class Nile Cruise.

Temple of Kom Ombo: Sobek and Horus the Elder

The Temple of Kom Ombo is a unique architectural marvel dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile deity, and Horus the Elder. It features symmetrical design elements, twin entrances, courts, and sanctuaries dedicated to each deity. The walls of Kom Ombo Temple are adorned with exquisite reliefs offering insights into ancient Egyptian medicine and religious beliefs.

Temple of Karnak: Amun

No exploration of Egyptian temples would be complete without a visit to Karnak. Dedicated to the god Amun, Karnak Temple is a vast ensemble of sanctuaries, pylons, obelisks, and hypostyle halls that reflect the contributions of pharaohs spanning over a millennium. Visitors can’t help but be awestruck by the scale and ambition of ancient Egyptian architecture and religious devotion.

In conclusion, Egyptian temples are not merely architectural wonders but living testimonies to the spiritual, artistic, and cultural legacy of an extraordinary civilization. You can experience all of this wonder and so much more for yourself on a Gate 1 Escorted Tour of Egypt. Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of Luxor Temple or contemplating the mysteries of Abu Simbel, Gate 1 escorted tours offer impactful experiences with the timeless allure of ancient Egypt that are sure to stay with you for a lifetime.

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The Enchanting Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

on January 10, 2020

There are few sites on earth as easily recognizable as the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, located just outside the capital city of Cairo. The complex consists of three main pyramids, a few smaller pyramids, the Sphinx and ruins of other structures. The three main pyramids are the Pyramid of Khufu (or Great Pyramid), Pyramid of Khafre and Pyramid of Menkaure, with Khufu being the largest of the structures. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must see when visiting Egypt and it is the perfect opportunity to learn fascinating information about the days of the Pharaohs.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @thebinstergram using the hashtag #gate1travel. This stunning view was captured in Giza, Egypt. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Egypt trips here! 

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Taking in Luxor, Egypt from Above

on September 6, 2019

Welcome to the ancient city of Thebes, or modern day Luxor. This city was the capital during the times of the Pharaohs, 16-11 BC, when they were at the very height of their power. The city is full of incredible temples and tombs that you have to see to believe including; The Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Colossi of Memnon and many more! Join us in Egypt and enjoy all that Luxor has to offer.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @jetsetmar using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Luxor, Egypt. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Egypt trips here! 

Cairo City
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Egypt: Luxury on the Nile

on August 12, 2019

See the pages of history books come to life in this mythical country in the Middle East. Hieroglyphics, mummies, tombs and the Great Sphinx become a reality when visiting Egypt and you will see them all and much more with Gate 1 Travel. This country has skyrocketed into popularity recently and there is no better time to visit this country than now. Your itinerary consists of the best experiences of Egypt including the Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Aswan and more. Join us as we navigate the Nile and land of the pharaohs.

Experience a luxurious Nile River cruise on the MS Esplanade. This ship has 5-star accommodations and includes a pool, bar, spa, laundry, boutique, restaurant and much more. Cabins include an LED TV with satellite channels, safe, individually controlled air conditioning and internet connection. You will be whisked away from place to place all while admiring the spectacular scenery of the Nile Valley passing by. Imagine visiting some of the oldest temples in the world by day such as Kom Ombo, Edfu and Luxor, and returning to your luxurious ship at night to eat, rest and relax. It is a true dream vacation.

Cairo: Your Gateway to the Secrets of Egypt

Welcome to a city that is a true mix of ancient and modern, in the capital of the country: Cairo. While in Cairo, perhaps explore independently or join the optional half day Egyptian Museum and Citadel tour. The museum contains the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and has more than 120,000 items on display! Some of the most famous items include actual mummies of Ancient Egyptian royalty and King Tutankhamun artifacts, including his infamous death mask. Continue to the Saladin Citadel of Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and medieval Islamic fort. The site is located near the city’s center and is famous for its fresh breeze and grand views of the city.

Visit the most famous attraction in the country and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the entire world; the Pyramids of Giza. Giza is located on the west bank of the Nile River and you’ll be surprised by how close the complex is to the city, in fact it is basically surrounded by it. The Great Pyramid is the oldest and biggest of the three pyramids in the complex and was built for the pharaoh Khufu. The other two smaller pyramids are called Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Great pyramid is part of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and they are the oldest and only surviving site on the list. After exploring the immense pyramids, continue onto the Sphinx that guards the Giza plateau. This half-lion, half-human is constructed out of a single-piece of limestone and sits in a reclining position. Enjoy some of the most beautiful and magnificent sites of Egypt here and take it all in because there is nothing else on Earth quite like it!

Luxor: Ancient Thebes In Real Life

The ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, current day Luxor, was once the capital when pharaohs ruled the land in the 16th -11th century BCE. You will be brought to Luxor via your deluxe river cruise ship and you are free to either explore at your own pace or join the optional tours to Valley of the Kings, burial site of pharaohs from around 1539-1075 BCE, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, with its unique 3 terrace designed, and the Colossi of Memnon, the two large stone statues of king Amenhotep III guarding the whole site. Included tours bring you to see the East bank of Luxor, which include the magnificent Temples of Karnak, including the Great Temple of Amon, an ancient temple dedicated to the king of the gods. Also visit Hypostyle Hall, 134 massive sandstone columns and Luxor Temple, the site of an ancient temple dating back to 1400 BCE. Also see the avenue of the Spinxes, a row of Sphinx statues connecting Luxor and Karnak temples.You are sure to see all that Luxor has to offer when you book your Egypt tour with Gate 1 Travel.

Nile River Cruise: Ultra-Sophistication from Aswan to Luxor

Your deluxe cruise takes you on the 5-star MS Esplanade river boat. The Esplanade will take you to can’t miss locations along the Nile including the cities of Luxor, Karnak, Edfu, Aswan, the towns of Komombo and Edfu and so much more. Optional tours while on board include a tour of Abu Simbel by bus, the ancient sites of Luxor including Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon and a Felucca sail boat ride. Your cruise will be truly unforgettable with exploration of these fascinating sites while at port and sailing effortlessly down the Nile while you relax and enjoy your ship and onboard amenities on your luxurious ship.

Edfu & Kom Ombo: History Alive

Visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in the entire country in Edfu. This temple was dedicated to the Egyptian god Horus, the falcon-headed god, who you can see depicted around the temple. There are many well-preserved statues and hieroglyphics here so pay attention to the intricate details of the temple. The site was built more recently than others you’ll visit, around 237 BCE, and took 180 years to build. The temple itself was buried in sand, rubble and part of Edfu village and was excavated in the 19th century. This site is truly marvelous and highlights the prosperity the country enjoyed in the time period it was built.

Next up, enjoy the town of Kom Ombo, that itself is simply an agricultural town located on the east bank of the river in the south. The town is most famous for the Temple of Kom Ombo, an unusual looking double-sided temple dedicated to the worship of both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. The temple was built this way in order to separate the two gods’ places of worship, because they were known to be brothers yet enemies but worshipped in the same temple. For this reason, the complex has two entrances, two courts and so on. Picture yourself here in the days of the pharaohs and visiting this place to worship the gods!

Aswan: An Engineering Marvel

Aswan is an ancient frontier city made famous by the High Dam of Aswan, an engineering miracle from the 1960s that brought the Nile’s devastating floods to an end. Arrive by motorboat to the island location of Philae Temple. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis, the mother of Horus and the wife of Osiris. Afterward, stop at a local perfume shop, which are famous in Aswan. Here you will learn about the creation of the perfumes and hear more about the healing effects of certain oils. Perhaps explore the local Aswan market (souk) where you can find almost anything, from souvenirs to clothing to spices and much more. If you have free time, satisfy your thirst with a local Egyptian drink such as mint or hibiscus tea at a local café.

Abu Simbel: A Site Completely Relocated

Abu Simbel is an optional tour with your itinerary. You will get there by bus because it is around 170 miles outside of Aswan. This unforgettable sight may just become the highlight of your trip. This easily recognizable site was actually saved from the waters of the Aswan High Dam and had to be completely reconstructed in its present location. It is as close to the original as possible with even the temples facing the exact same direction. The site is comprised of two temples: the Great Temple and the Small Temple, both created during the time of Ramses II for him and his wife Queen Nefertari. Step outside of the temples and admire the majestic seated statues of Ramses II. Proceed to the Temple of Hathor to view the murals with images of the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari.

Uncover the countless wonders of Ancient Egypt and the Nile River with Gate 1 Travel on a deluxe cruise ship. When you do, you’ll close each remarkable day in luxury accommodations, delight in local cuisine, and gain in-depth insight from local guides who call this destination home. Join us!

Please Note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary.

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The Quizzical Sphinx of Memphis, Egypt

on December 14, 2018

Join our optional tour while in Cairo, Egypt  to Memphis, the capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom, founded by King Menes. Menes was the ruler of the first Egyptian dynasty and united the kingdoms of Upper and Lower Egypt. This ancient city is now an open-air museum highlighted by the great standing statue of Ramses II and this incredible Sphinx statue. Most of the city is in ruin and but it remains known as one of the oldest and most important cities in ancient Egypt. 

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @airam94564 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This majestic photo was taken in Memphis, Egypt. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Egypt trips here!

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The Mysteries of Giza, Egypt

on July 20, 2018

The Great Sphinx is located in Giza, Egypt and is located just outside of Cairo, on the other side of the Nile. The statue is one of the most famous images in the world and sits right next to the Great Pyramids. The Sphinx is made of limestone and depicts the mythical ancient Egyptian creature with the head of a pharaoh and the body of a lion. Archaeologists estimate that the statue is around 4,500 years old and was created for the pharaoh Khafre.

egypt
This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @shelleyawelch using the hashtag #gate1travel. This powerful view was taken of the Sphinx in Giza, Egypt. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Egypt trips here!

 

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Top 7 Sites On Your Egypt Tour

on June 25, 2018

Egypt is a highly sought after travel destination with good reason; it contains some of the most famous landmarks in the entire world including the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Nile River. With sights that are older than many countries, Egypt has enough history and beauty to leave any visitor happy and fulfilled. Get ready to fall in love with this ancient country and learn more about the great pharaohs, landmarks, past civilizations and so much more, that this authentic country has to offer. Pack your bags because we are sending you to the heart of the Nile and the land of the pharaohs; Welcome to Egypt!

7. Nile River Cruise

Two of our current Egypt itineraries include a Nile Cruise that will send you on the second longest river in the world! Your cruise takes you on the Queen of Hansa river nile-feluccasboat and will take you to excellent spots along the Nile including the cities of Luxor, Karnak, Edfu, Aswan and more. Optional tours while on board include a tour of the ancient sites of Luxor including Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon and a Sunset Felucca Ride. Your cruise will be truly unforgettable with exploration of these fascinating sites while at port and sailing effortlessly down the Nile while you relax and enjoy your cruise.

6. Luxor

Welcome to the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, current day Luxor. This ancient city was once the capital when pharaoh’s ruled the area in the 16th-11th century BC. You will be brought to Luxor via your river cruise ship and you are free to either explore at your own pace or join the optional tours to Valley of the Kings, burial site of pharaohs from around 1539-1075 BC, Valley of the Queens, the burial site of the queens and royal children from 1292-1075 BC, Temple of Hatshepsut, entrance to the Valley of the Kings temple-of-karnakand burial spot of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon, two large stone statues of Amenhotep III. An included tour brings you to see the East bank of Luxor, which includes the magnificent Temples of Karnak, including the Great Temple of Amon, an ancient temple dedicated to the king of the gods, avenue of the Sphinxes, a row of Sphinx statues connecting Luxor Temple and the Temple of Amon, Hypostyle Hall, 134 massive sandstone columns and Luxor Temple, the site of an ancient temple dating back to 1400 BC. You are sure to see all that Luxor has to offer when you book your Egypt tour with Gate 1 Travel.

5. Temple of Edfu/Temple of Horus

Visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best preserved ancient monuments in the entire country, and there are a lot, located in Edfu, Egypt. This temple was dedicated to the Egyptian god Horus, who is the falcon-headed god, who you can see depicted around the temple. The site was built more recently than others on our list, around 237 BC, and took 180 years to build. The temple itself was buried by sand, rubble and part of the Edfu village and was excavated in the mid-19th century. This site is truly marvelous and highlights the prosperity the country enjoyed at the time period it was built.

4. Kom Ombo

Next up, visit the town of Kom Ombo, that itself is simply an agricultural town located in the Southeast of the country. The town is most famous for the Temple of Kom Ombo, an unusual looking double-sided temple with a temple built for both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. The temples were built this way in order to separate the two gods places of worship, because they were known to not get along. For this reason, the complex has two entrances, two courts and so on. Enjoy these temples, which are some of the most famous ancient buildings and monuments in the entire world and feel what it must have felt like to live in the days of the pharaohs worshiping their gods.

3. Cairo

Welcome to a city that is a true mix of ancient and modern, in the current capital of the country; Cairo. While in Cairo, either explore independently or join the optional half day Egyptian Museum and Bazaar tour that takes you to the Egyptian Museum and the Khan el Khalili Bazaar. The museum contains the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and has more than 120.000 items on display! Some of the most famous items include mummies and King Tutankhamun artifacts. The bazaar is a must-visit for souvenirs and is the perfect spot to find copper, leather, perfume, brass-ware and much more. While in bustling Cairo be sure to try some traditional dishes and street foods such as kabab, falafel, shwarma, fiteer, ful mudamas or koshary. Yum!

2. Abu Simbel

The tour of Abu Simbel is an optional tour on your Egyptian journey, but it is an excellent one and highly recommended! A flight from Aswan takes you to the South of Egypt on the Nile River in Abu Simbel, a village in Nubia, to see these unforgettable temples. The abu-simbel3site is comprised of two temples; the Great Temple and the Small Temple both created during the time of Ramses II. This huge ancient sire had to be completely moved to another location when the Aswan High Dam was planned because it would have completely submerged both temples. The site is now as close to the original as possible, with the temples even facing in the exact same direction. Abu Simbel is the second most visited site in all of Egypt, after a very well-known site that is coming up next.

1. The Pyramids of Giza/ Great Sphinx

Welcome to the most famous site in the country and one of the most well-known landmarks in the world; the Pyramids of Giza. The Great Pyramid is the oldest and biggest of the three pyramids in the complex and was built for the pharaoh Khufu. The other two smaller pyramids are called Pyramid of Khafre and the Phyramid of pyramids4Menkaure. They are part of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and they are the oldest surviving site on the list. After exploring the immense pyramids, continue onto the Sphinx that guards the Giza plateau. This half-lion half-human is constructed out of a single-piece of limestone and sits in a reclining position. Both sites are located in the city of Giza, Egypt on the west bank of the Nile River and you’ll be surprised by how close they are to the city. Enjoy some of the most beautiful and magnificent sites of Egypt here and take it all in because there is nothing else on Earth quite like it!

sphinx1