Family Trip to Egypt
Exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt makes for an incredible journey. The Nile valley has long been the lifeblood for the region. Your tour will take you from Luxor's famed Valleys of the Kings and Queens, up the Nile to see how it has sustained this fascinating civilization, and end with the iconic pyramids of Giza.
Exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt makes for an incredible family journey. The Nile valley has long been the lifeblood for the region. After Cairo, your Nile cruise will take you from Luxor's famed Valleys of the Kings and Queens, down the Nile to Aswan to see how it has sustained this fascinating civilization.
Oct. 14 - 16 | Cairo
- Marriott Mena House (2 nights)
Oct. 16 - 20 | Nile Cruise
- Sonesta Sun Goddess (4 nights)
Oct. 20 - 21 | Cairo
- Four Seasons Nile Plaza (1 night)
Oct. 21 | Departure
Emergency Contacts in Cairo & Throughout:
An individual: will be provided
Another individual: will be provided
Emergency contact in Luxor & Aswan
An individual: will be provided
Sonesta Sun Goddess Cruise:
Cruise ship Location
Cruise Phone: will be provided
Cruise Manager: An individual
- will be provided
You can always count on your curator to respond by chat. Please note that your local contacts will provide the fastest and most efficient response to an emergency.
US passport holders require a tourist visa to enter Egypt on arrival. The single-entry visa is included in your trip.
Your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months after arrival in Egypt.
Weather in Egypt in October can vary depending on the region you are visiting, as Egypt has a diverse climate due to its geographical features. In Cairo, daytime temperatures typically range from 25°C to 30°C. You can expect minimal rainfall. In Luxor and Aswan, October is a great time to visit as temperatures are more comfortable, with daytime highs around 30°C to 35°C. Minimal to no rainfall is expected.
It is polite to adhere to and show respect for local customs with what you wear. Women should not wear strappy dresses, miniskirts, shorts, or low-necked dresses in public places. Modest dress is particularly important when visiting mosques, synagogues, and churches. Ladies should wear loose-fitting, non-see-through clothes and shoulders should be covered.
The unit of currency is the Egyptian Pound (£E), which is divided into 100 piasters. It is useful to have local currency for tipping or for shopping in smaller souks or local restaurants, and it is easy to change money at any hotel bank. US dollars are widely accepted in major tourist establishments, hotels, and souvenir shops.
MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted at major restaurants, almost all hotels, and many shops. American Express is less common but is still normally accepted at major hotels.
Tipping during your holiday is not compulsory. If, however, you want to tip because you have received good service, we have enclosed a brief guideline to assist you:
Currency: We advise clients to take spending money in the form of US Dollar cash, as this is favored on most excursions for tips, drinks and curios. Credit cards are generally accepted.
Transfers: We recommend about US$10 per transfer for the driver per movement.
Touring Driver and/or Guides: For half day tours we recommend about US$20 and for a full day tour we recommend US$30 per day.
Porterage: We recommend about US$5 per guest per movement.
Hotel Staff: We recommend about US$40 per room per day for hotel staff i.e. housekeeping, etc. In some instances where you are allocated a butler or dedicated waiter for the duration of your stay at a specific property, you could tip about UD$20 per room per day.
Restaurants: 10 - 15% is customary on meal accounts if you are satisfied with the service.
Enjoy scenset's Egypt Spotify Playlist as you get ready for your adventure! Egyptian contemporary music blends traditional Arabic music with modern influences. It often features a fusion of Western genres like pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. Lyrics frequently explore social and political themes. Prominent artists have gained international recognition, shaping the country's modern music scene.
Pick-up Time: Morning
Contact: will be provided
You will be greeted at the airplane exit area and assisted with customs clearance and luggage.
Booked by scenset.
Private transfer to your hotel in Giza (approx. 1 hour away).
Booked by scenset.
Cairo is stunning, wild and possibly infuriating to some! The echoes of the calls to prayer five times a day are mingled with the never-ending, tuneless symphonies of traffic down dusty avenues. Cairo is a mega city with a constant buzz, home to 22-or-so million people. People there have exceptional humor and one of the most studied histories on earth. The energy in this city is one of a kind. It will leave you speechless in all the ways.
Check in to your hotel and enjoy a recommended lunch at your hotel with views of the pyramids.
Pick-up Time: Afternoon
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: will be provided
- will be provided
Greeting by your personal English-speaking Egyptologist at your hotel lobby and private transfer to the Grand Egyptian Museum for a guided tour. This is a world-renowned cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing Egypt's rich history. It stands out for its remarkable collection of over 100,000 ancient artifacts, including the iconic treasures of King Tutankhamun, displayed in a state-of-the-art facility that provides an immersive and educational experience for visitors. This museum serves as a testament to Egypt's enduring legacy and commitment to preserving its archaeological heritage for future generations to appreciate.
Booked by scenset.
Your guide and driver will remain at your disposal should you wish to continue exploring throughout the afternoon.
If you're interested, your guide and driver will take you to Khan El Khalili Market for a tantalizing experience! Khan El Khalili Market is a mesmerizing spectacle with the bustling lanes illuminated by a myriad of colorful lanterns and twinkling lights. The ambient sounds of vendors calling out their wares and traditional Arabic music create an enchanting atmosphere. The market's vibrant energy remains palpable as locals and tourists alike explore its labyrinthine alleys, discovering a captivating array of handcrafted treasures, spices, jewelry, and delectable street food. It's a captivating and unforgettable nocturnal experience in the heart of historic Cairo.
Recommended & included by scenset.
You must stop by this famous café in the Khan El Khalili bazaar. The area has dozens of cafés, but this is the oldest, best known, and most frequented by locals. Here you can sip a Turkish coffee or mint tea; fresh juice; karkadeh, a hibiscus drink served hot or cold; and sahleb, a warm milk-based drink sprinkled with coconut and nuts. You can also have your shoes shined or smoke a shisha (water pipe).
- The El-Fishawy cafe first opened its doors in 1797 – one year before Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Egypt.
- During the early 20th century the cafe was noted for its intellectuals and writers, especially during Ramadan, among them the 20th-century Nobel-Laureate Naguib Mahfouz. King Farouk, Egypt’s last monarch, also frequented.
Booked by scenset.
Reservation Time: Evening
If you end up going to Khan El Khalili Market, enjoy dinner at Zeeyara Restaurant – a highly recommended restaurant for connoisseurs of Mediterranean and Egyptian cuisine. This establishment is known for its delectable pies that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The restaurant offers a great view and the staff are known to be exceptionally attentive.
Booked by scenset.
Why we love it for you: Marriott Mena House is a luxurious hotel located in Giza, Egypt, nestled in the shadow of the iconic pyramids. Its rich history dates back to 1869, offering guests a unique blend of modern comfort and historic charm. The hotel boasts stunning views of the Pyramids of Giza, which can be admired from many of its rooms and restaurants. With its unparalleled location and timeless elegance, Marriott Mena House provides an unforgettable and culturally immersive experience for travelers seeking to explore the wonders of ancient Egypt.
Marriott Mena House Cairo
2 Deluxe Partial Pyramid View Rooms with Balcony – 1 King & 1 Twin
- Rooms are next door to each other, not interconnected.
- Breakfast included
Confirmation Numbers:
will be provided
Booked by scenset
Pick-up Time: Morning
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: will be provided
- will be provided
As the sun rises over Dahshour, Sakkara, and the Giza Pyramids, you embark on a captivating morning journey with your private guide. The serene ambiance of Dahshour's lesser-visited pyramids envelopes you in ancient history, allowing for intimate exploration. Moving to Sakkara, the Step Pyramid and its vast necropolis reveal the evolution of pyramid architecture. Next, you arrive at the iconic Giza Pyramids, basking in the soft morning light. Your guide's expertise brings these colossal structures to life, sharing tales of pharaohs and mysteries of the ancient world.
Booked by scenset.
After your tour of the Pyramids, your guide will escort you to 9 Pyramids for a recommended lunch.
Confirmed by scenset.
Pick-up Time: Afternoon (TBC with your guide on the day of)
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Contact: will be provided
- will be provided
Cairo is a city of contrasts and there is no better way to experience these contrasts than by exploring the Coptic and Islamic heritage. Explore the city's Coptic neighborhood followed by a tour of Rafai and Sultan Hassan mosques, two of the most spectacular architectural feats of Cairo.
Booked by scenset.
Explore the ancient Fortress of Babylon, a Roman-era stronghold built to safeguard Egypt from external threats. Within the fortress walls, you'll discover the venerable Church of St. Sergius, built upon a crypt believed to be one of the Holy Family's refuge points during their journey to Egypt two millennia ago. Witness the "Hanging Church," an architectural wonder held aloft by a single column, adorned with breathtaking interior paintings. Option to visit a synagogue, a testament to Egypt's once-vibrant Jewish community. Continue to Sultan Hassan Mosque and the elegant Refaai Mosque, the final resting place of the Shah of Iran, and the hallowed grounds of the Egyptian Royal Family's cemeteries.
Pick-up Time: Evening
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Reservation Time: Early Evening
This evening we recommend dinner at Andrea in New Giza. You will be transferred to and from the restaurant.
Booked by scenset.
Marriott Mena House Cairo
2 Deluxe Partial Pyramid View Rooms with Balcony – 1 King & 1 Twin
- Rooms are next door to each other, not interconnected.
- Breakfast included
Confirmation Numbers:
will be provided & will be provided
Booked by scenset
Pick-up Time: Early morning
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Greeting by your host at your hotel and private transfer to the Cairo airport for your flight to Luxor.
Booked by scenset.
Pick-up Time: Morning
Meeting Point: Arrivals Terminal
Emergency Contact: will be provided
- will be provided
Arrival at Luxor airport where you will be greeted at the arrivals terminal and transferred to the dock to board your cruise: The Sonesta Sun Goddess Nile Cruise.
Booked by scenset.
Luxor is like no other place on earth. Successor to the ancient city of Thebes, which served as Ancient Egypt’s capital for most of the Middle Kingdom (2055-1650 BC) and New Kingdom (1550-1077 BC), Luxor is situated at the very heart of mankind’s most antique past, embedded in five thousand years of Egyptian history.
The journey commences on Monday morning. After settling in, guests are invited to savor lunch on board. Following this, an exciting adventure unfolds as we visit the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, immersing ourselves in the rich history and grandeur of these ancient sites. As the evening descends, we gather for afternoon tea and later convene for dinner on board. The night is filled with the enchanting melodies of live music in the ship's lounge.
Included by your cruise.
This vast complex is one of the largest religious sites in the world, comprising several temples, pylons, obelisks, and the famous Hypostyle Hall. The Temple of Amun-Ra is a prominent highlight within Karnak.
Explore Luxor Temple. Situated on the east bank of the Nile, Luxor Temple is an impressive ancient temple dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. It is known for its colossal statues, elegant colonnades, and magnificent entrance.
Why we love it for you: The Sonesta Sun Goddess Nile Cruise Ship embarks on enchanting journeys along the Nile River, offering three, four, and seven-night cruises between the picturesque cities of Aswan and Luxor. The Sun Goddess gracefully moors in Luxor, adjacent to the magnificent Luxor Temple, and in Aswan at the scenic Nile Dream Dock, situated in front of the Aswan Sporting Club. This splendid vessel features 30 roomy suites, each boasting its own private balcony.
Sonesta Sun Goddess
2 Presidential Suites with Balcony
- Suites are next door to each other, there are not interconnecting rooms onboard.
- Includes meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea), all taxes and sightseeing excursions ashore each day with an Egyptologist.
- Beverages are not included.
- Cruise serves alcoholic beverages.
Confirmation Number:
will be provided
Booked by scenset
The next day begins with a wake-up call at sunrise, preparing you for a day of exploration. Breakfast is served on board, providing the energy needed for a visit to the West Bank, where the Valley of Kings, Queens, and the remarkable Hatshepsut Temple await. After this captivating excursion, set sail to Esna, enjoying lunch on the way. The afternoon unfolds with another indulgent tea session, followed by a Welcome Cocktail Party and a splendid dinner on board. The evening's entertainment continues with live music in the lounge.
Included by your cruise.
Located on the west bank of the Nile, the Valley of the Kings is an archaeological site that served as the burial place for many pharaohs of the New Kingdom. Visitors can explore elaborately decorated tombs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun.
Sonesta Sun Goddess
2 Presidential Suites with Balcony
- Suites are next door to each other, there are not interconnecting rooms onboard.
- Includes meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea), all taxes and sightseeing excursions ashore each day with an Egyptologist.
- Beverages are not included.
- Cruise serves alcoholic beverages.
Confirmation Number:
will be provided
Booked by scenset
On Wednesday, rise early as the ship sails to Edfu, awakening to a breathtaking sunrise. After breakfast, embark on a visit to the magnificent Edfu Temple, a testament to ancient Egyptian craftsmanship. Your journey then takes you to Kom Ombo, where lunch is served on board. Later in the day, as you explore the Kom Ombo Temple, delve deeper into Egypt's storied past. The evening culminates in a delicious dinner and a lively Galabeya party, celebrating local culture.
Included by your cruise.
Sonesta Sun Goddess
2 Presidential Suites with Balcony
- Suites are next door to each other, there are not interconnecting rooms onboard.
- Includes meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea), all taxes and sightseeing excursions ashore each day with an Egyptologist.
- Beverages are not included.
- Cruise serves alcoholic beverages.
Confirmation Number:
will be provided
Booked by scenset
Thursday begins with the ship setting course for Aswan, and another early wake-up call prepares you for the day ahead. Following breakfast on board, embark on a remarkable tour, visiting the High Dam, the Granite Quarries, and the Temple of Philae. The afternoon takes a leisurely turn as you sail the tranquil waters of the Nile by Felucca, taking in the natural beauty around Kitchener's Island and Agha Khan. Afternoon Tea is followed by a captivating Nubian Folkloric Show, a highlight of the evening. Dinner is served on board, and guests can enjoy more live music in the ship's lounge.
Included by your cruise.
On the northern end of the First Cataract, marking ancient Egypt's southern frontier, Aswan has always been of great strategic importance. In ancient times it was a garrison town for the military campaigns against Nubia; its quarries provided the granite used for so many sculptures and obelisks. The river is wide, languorous and beautiful here, flowing gently down from Lake Nasser around dramatic black-granite boulders and palm-studded islands. Colorful Nubian villages run down to the water and stand out against the backdrop of the west bank's desert escarpment.
Situated on an island in the Nile River, Philae Temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis. This beautiful temple complex was also relocated due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The site showcases stunning architecture, reliefs, and hieroglyphics.
The Aswan High Dam, an engineering marvel, was constructed to control the flooding of the Nile River and provide hydroelectric power. Visiting the dam offers an opportunity to witness the impressive scale of this structure and learn about its impact on Egypt's development.
Sonesta Sun Goddess
2 Presidential Suites with Balcony
- Suites are next door to each other, there are not interconnecting rooms onboard.
- Includes meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea), all taxes and sightseeing excursions ashore each day with an Egyptologist.
- Beverages are not included.
- Cruise serves alcoholic beverages.
Confirmation Number:
will be provided
Booked by scenset
As your journey draws to a close on Friday, a wake-up call heralds the day's activities. After breakfast on board, it's time to bid farewell as you disembark, concluding an unforgettable Nile River cruise experience filled with history, culture, and scenic beauty.
Pick-up Time: Morning
Meeting Point: Disembarkation Hall
Emergency Contact: will be provided
- will be provided
Greeting at your cruise in Aswan and private transfer to the Aswan airport for your flight to Cairo.
Booked by scenset.
Greeting by your host upon arrival and private transfer to your hotel, the Four Seasons.
Booked by scenset.
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. The Four Seasons Nile Plaza offers a wide range of luxurious amenities to ensure a memorable stay. Guests can indulge in exquisite dining at its multiple restaurants and bars, rejuvenate at the spa and wellness center, and unwind by the outdoor pool overlooking the Nile. The hotel also features a fitness center, business facilities, concierge services, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Why we love it for you? The Four Seasons Nile Plaza is a luxurious hotel on the banks of the Nile River in downtown Cairo. It boasts opulent accommodations, world-class dining, and breathtaking views of the river and the city's skyline. With its elegant decor and impeccable service, it offers a tranquil oasis in the heart of bustling Cairo.
Four Seasons Nile Plaza
2 Superior Rooms – 1 King & 1 Twin
- Rooms are next door to each other, not interconnected.
- Breakfast included
Confirmation Numbers:
will be provided
Booked by scenset
Spend your morning at leisure. A driver and guide will be available if you wish to explore Old Cairo.
Meeting Time: Afternoon
Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby
Greeting by your host at the hotel lobby and private transfer to the Cairo Airport in time for your international flight departure.
Included by scenset.
Please refer to our terms & conditions here.