PRIVATE EDITION
with
Three of Egypt’s most distinguished Heads of Antiquities
Dr. Zahi Hawass
World’s Most Famous Archaeologist & Egypt's Head of Antiquities (2002-2011)
Dr. Mostafa Waziri
Egypt's Head of Antiquities (2017-2024)
Dr. Mohamed Ismail
Egypt's Head of Antiquities (2024-2026)
Dr. Tarek El-Awady
Leading Egyptologist
limited to only 18 guests!
THIS IS THE MOST EXCITING AND EXCLUSIVE TOUR OF EGYPT EVER OFFERED!
There is no one better to lead you through the fascinating history of the Land of the Pharaohs than the world’s most famous archaeologist, Dr. Zahi Hawass. For over 20 years he held all the keys to the Egyptian antiquities. Dr. Hawass has revolutionized our understanding of ancient Egypt and now he takes you on a private journey to explore the country’s greatest monuments.
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The Royal Egypt Tour offers unparalleled access to the wonders of ancient Egypt and offers special entries to sites that are off-limits to the general public. Explore the entire Giza pyramid complex and the Luxor Temple outside of opening hours. Only with us will you stand between the paws of the Great Sphinx – a privilege reserved usually for heads of states and royals! Thanks to special permission granted by the Minister of Antiquities, you will discover Abu Sir, one of Egypt’s most important royal necropolises, closed to the general public Additionally, explore the wonders of the ancient Egyptian civilization including the enormous Karnak and Abu Simbel temples, the tombs in the Valley of the Kings, and much more!
Your journey will be enriched by private meetings with the leading figures of Egyptian archaeology, including two of Egypt’s Heads of Antiquities: Dr. Mostafa Waziri, whom you will meet in Saqqara; Dr. Mohamed Ismail at Abu Sir, where you will enter the Pyramid of Sahure with special access; and, in Luxor, Dr. Tarek El-Awady, Director of Excavations at Deir el-Bahari.
Throughout the tour, you stay in the finest and historic 5-star hotels, sail on a luxury Nile cruise ship, dine on delicious local cuisine and embrace the unique Egyptian culture. With Archaeological Paths you will experience luxury trip to Egypt like no one else!
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October 11-24, 2026
Waiting list
November 8-21, 2026
Waiting list
February 7-20, 2027
Open places
February 21-March 6, 2027
Open places
March 7-20, 2027
Open places
October 10-23, 2027
Open places
October 24-November 6, 2027
Open places
November 7-20, 2027
Open places
Dr. Zahi Hawass
World’s Most Famous Archaeologist & Egypt's Head of Antiquities (2002-2011)
There is no better person to lead you through the fascinating history of ancient Egypt than Dr. Zahi Hawass. For over 20 years he held all the keys to the Egyptian antiquities. First, as the Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, and then as the Minister of State for Antiquities. During our tour Dr. Zahi Hawass will join our group for sightseeing of the most important sites in Egypt including exclusive access to the Great Sphinx enclosure and the Lost Golden City – regarded as Egypt’s “Discovery of the Century.” Thanks to his experience and expert knowledge which he will share with us in front of the world's greatest monuments, you will learn the secrets of Egypt like no one else.
Moreover, you will take part in a private multimedia lecture by Dr. Hawass who will show you his latest and the most exciting discoveries made recently in Egypt! He will focus on his research, including the mysteries of Tutankhamun, the search for the grave of Queen Nefertiti, new findings in the Valley of the Kings, and the search for the tombs of Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Dr. Hawass will also discuss his work on the pyramid complex at Giza and include biographical anecdotes and personal experience gained during many years of his scientific activity.
I invite you to join me and Archaeological Paths to tour Egypt and to see the wonders of the pharaohs.
I'm joining these tours. I will tell you about the discoveries that I made in the last 20 years. You will be able to visit many unique sites that actually very few people can see. We will enter between the two paws of the Sphinx alone and see the smile of the Sphinx. You will visit my great discovery, the "Lost Golden City" in Luxor. It is called the most important discovery of the century!
No one can tour Egypt like this. Except for you – when you come and join me. You’ll be treated like royalty. This is why we call it the Royal Tour!
– Dr. Hawass
Dr. Mostafa Waziri
Egypt's Head of Antiquities (2017-2024)
Dr. Waziri, one of the most important figures in the Egyptology world, will introduce you to the archaeological discoveries that have been made in Egypt recently. He will take you inside his landmark find, the Tomb of Wahtye, a site closed to the public, and share the current research news and plans for the future with you.
I know that you are different from everybody else. I’m going to call you the lovers of Egypt. Come and visit Egypt!
No country in the entire world can compete with the culture and heritage that we have in Egypt. What you can see above the ground in Egypt does not represent more than 40% of what may still lay hidden underneath the sands of Egypt. It will be my honor to give a lecture to explain recent work and discoveries in Egypt. I’m very proud that I have joined different archaeological missions. We have a lot to discover every year. Some of our new discoveries are already published, and some are not.
It is going to be my turn to explain what we discovered in the last couple of years, last couple of months and even last couple of days. That’s what I’m going to present during this tour. Come and visit Egypt and you will never forget this tour for the rest of your life. Come, the lovers of Egypt.
– Dr. Waziri
Dr. Mohamed Ismail
Egypt's Head of Antiquities (2024-2026)
Dr. Mohamed Ismail is, today, the most important figure in Egyptian antiquities. He oversees every archaeological site, excavation, and museum project across the country – from the Giza Plateau to the newest discoveries in Luxor. Nothing in the world of Egyptian heritage happens without his oversight.
Throughout his career, Dr. Ismail has stood at the center of some of Egypt’s most remarkable discoveries, including the tomb of King Thutmose II in Luxor – described as one of the most significant finds in decades. Today, he leads archaeological mission at the Pyramid of Sahure in Abu Sir, where his team has made significant discoveries such as newly uncovered storerooms within the pyramid complex.
On our tours, you enjoy an on-site encounter with Dr. Ismail at a place no other tourist ever sees. You are invited to Abu Sir, one of Egypt’s most important royal necropolises, off-limits to the public. There, inside the Pyramid of Sahure – also closed to the general visitors and explored only by his mission – Dr. Mohamed Ismail personally welcomes you and delivers a private talk. He shares first-hand insight into the latest discoveries, ongoing excavations, and current research. All this happens while you stand in the very space where history is being uncovered!
Hearing about Egypt’s past is one thing. Hearing it from the man who runs Egypt’s antiquities – inside an active excavation he leads – is an experience reserved only for our guests.
Dr. Tarek el-Awady
Leading Egyptologist
Dr. Tarek El-Awady is often described as a “walking encyclopedia” on ancient Egypt. He was formerly Director General of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, and over the course of his prominent career, he has overseen many excavation projects across Egypt.
Dr. El-Awady is currently Director of Excavations at Deir el-Bahari, an area right beside the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Here, archaeologists are revealing the remains of Queen Hatshepsut’s Valley Temple, along with the names and tombs of high officials from the very beginning of the 18th Dynasty. You explore the site under the guidance of Dr. Tarek El-Awady, Director of Excavations at Deir el-Bahari. You meet him at the dig itself, hear the stories behind the finds, and gain rare, first-hand insight into how history is brought back to light, layer by layer.
PRIVATE ENTRY TO THE GIZA PLATEAU
Visit the most iconic historic site in the world outside regular hours for an intimate and crowd-free experience.
PRIVATE ENTRY TO THE GREAT PYRAMID
Explore the Pyramid of Khufu – including two chambers that are closed to the public – without any other tourists.
PRIVATE ENTRY TO LUXOR TEMPLE
Discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site after everyone else has left for the day – a true VIP experience.
SPECIAL ACCESS TO THE GREAT SPHINX ENCLOSURE
Marvel at a once-in-a-lifetime chance to touch the Great Sphinx and watch the sunrise from between its huge paws, where you meet Dr. Zahi Hawass.
SPECIAL ACCESS TO ABU SIR & SAHURE PYRAMID
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Enjoy special-access visit to Abu Sir – one of Egypt’s most important royal necropolises, closed to the general public, and Sahure Pyramid, also off-limits to visitors. Here, you will witness one of the most impressive restoration projects in Egypt and discover the largest storage area ever uncovered in any Egyptian pyramid.
SPECIAL ACCESS TO THE TOMB OF WAHTYE
Explore the Tomb of Wahtye—one of the most spectacular archaeological discoveries of the modern era—in the company of Dr. Mostafa Waziri, the man behind the tomb's unearthing.
SPECIAL ACCESS TO THE LOST GOLDEN CITY IN LUXOR
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Explore an active excavation site hailed as the greatest discovery in Egypt since Tutankhamun’s tomb. Dedicated to the sun god Aten, the Lost Golden City was a center of ancient solar worship. With Dr. Zahi Hawass, who uncovered this extraordinary site, gain exclusive access available only to Archaeological Paths’ guests.
SPECIAL ACCESS TO THE ACTIVE EXCAVATION AREA AT DEIR EL-BAHARI
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Discover one of Egypt’s most important research sites while work is still underway – a privilege rarely extended beyond the archaeological community.
Inspired by Dr. Zahi Hawass – Royal Egypt Tour has been designed in cooperation with Dr. Hawass to ensure the most comprehensive journey through Egypt’s fascinating history.
Cairo & Pyramids – Discover the diverse capital of Egypt. Begin your journey at Saqqara, home to the first pyramid ever built by the Egyptians, the Step Pyramid of Djoser. See two early pyramids in Dahshur and take in the sight of the magnificent Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx.
Grand Egyptian Museum – Delve into the world’s largest collection of pharaonic treasures, including King Tut’s famous golden mask.
Nile Cruise – Enjoy an 8-day scenic cruise down the Nile and visit the most awe-inspiring sites.
Luxor – Unveil the secrets of the ancient city of Thebes by visiting the enormous Karnak and Luxor Temples. Explore the royal tombs of the pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings and the great Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. Admire the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Last but not least, explore the new excavation site of the Lost Golden City, hailed as Egypt's most significant discovery of this century.
Edfu & Kom Ombo – Visit the marvelous Temple of Edfu, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt, and the Greco-Roman Temple of Kom Ombo.
Aswan – Admire the Unfinished Obelisk, the world’s largest ancient obelisk, and discover the Temple of Philae, beautifully located on an island. Marvel at the feat of engineering behind the 2-mile-long Aswan High Dam.
Abu Simbel – Explore the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel, carved out of the mountainside for Ramses II and his wife Nefertari.
Historic Cairo – Experience the exotic vibe of Cairo and explore the city’s two historic architectural gems, the Saladin Citadel and the Alabaster Mosque.
Cultural Experiences – Meet with Nubians and experience their way of living by visiting their homes and local school. Stroll through captivating old souks in Luxor and Aswan and take a scenic ride across the Nile on a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailboat. Connect with locals and enjoy authentic traditional musical performances.
Day 1 – Arrival in Cairo
When you arrive at Cairo International Airport, an Archaeological Paths’ representative greets you and helps you with visa and airport procedures. You are then transferred to a luxurious 5-star hotel in Giza that offers spectacular views of the pyramids.
Day 2 – Saqqara / Special Access to the Tomb of Wahtye with Dr. Mostafa Waziri
After an orientation with Archaeological Paths’ representatives, you visit the ancient necropolis of Saqqara, which, according to Dr. Hawass, is one of the most impressive places on Earth and the “birthplace of architecture”. Admire the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in Egypt, built 4,700 years ago by the legendary architect Imhotep.
EXCLUSIVE VIP EXPERIENCE:
From here, a truly exclusive experience awaits: a special-access visit to the Tomb of Wahtye, one of the most spectacular archaeological discoveries of the modern era. Closed to the general public, this 4-400-year-old burial chamber stunned the world upon its discovery in 2018 and later featured in a widely acclaimed Netflix documentary Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb.
SPECIAL GUEST:
What makes this visit even more remarkable is who you see it with. You enter the tomb in the company of Dr. Mostafa Waziri, one of Egypt’s Heads of Antiquities – and the very archaeologist who discovered it. Guided by Dr. Waziri, you will gain first-hand insight into the tomb’s discovery, its historical significance and the meaning behind its remarkably preserved reliefs.
You also visit the elaborately decorated Tomb of Mereruka and the Pyramid of Teti, which boasts one of the oldest pyramid texts ever discovered. Wrap up your sightseeing in Saqqara with a visit to the Imhotep Museum.
Day 3 – Special Access to Abu Sir and Sahure Pyramid with Dr. Mohamed Ismail / Dahshur Pyramids
EXCLUSIVE VIP EXPERIENCE:
Start your day where almost no one is allowed to go. With special-access entry to Abu Sir – one of Egypt’s most important royal necropolises, closed to the general public – you’ll step into a landscape most visitors never even hear about. Set between Giza and Saqqara, Abu Sir is home to the pyramids of the Fifth Dynasty pharaohs and remains an active hub of archaeological research.
On this private visit, you step into areas normally reserved for archaeologists and high-ranked officials, including exclusive entry to the Pyramid of Sahure – a privilege almost no one outside the field ever receives. As part of this extraordinary experience, you will witness one of the most impressive restoration projects in Egypt, taking place inside this remarkable pyramid.
SPECIAL GUEST:
Adding to the significance of this experience, you will be joined by Dr. Mohamed Ismail – one of Egypt’s Heads of Antiquities and the man directing the work at the site. He will personally lead you into the pyramid, where – deep inside the monument – you will attend a private lecture delivered exclusively for your group. Inside the pyramid, surrounded by ancient stone, you will hear first-hand insights, field discoveries, the realities of ongoing restoriation work and one of Dr. Ismail’s most remarkable finds: the largest storage area ever uncovered in any Egyptian pyramid! This is an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience reserved for the very few.
Later, you head to Dahshur, home to the Bent and Red Pyramids, built for Pharaoh Snefru. These pyramids are among the oldest, largest and best preserved in Egypt.
Day 4 – Private Entry to the Giza Plateau / Private Entry to the Great Pyramid / Special Access Between the Paws of the Great Sphinx with Dr. Zahi Hawass
EXCLUSIVE VIP EXPERIENCE:
In the morning, when the entire Giza Plateau remains closed to other tourists, Archaeological Paths’ guests have exclusive access to this iconic ancient site. This crowd-free experience is typically offered only to royals, heads of state and other honored guests.
First, you enjoy private entry to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing today. During the entire visit, you are accompanied by an Egyptology Expert who leads you through the Great Pyramid’s interior and vividly describes its history, construction, and mythology. Exclusively for you, the Director of the Giza Pyramids opens two additional chambers – the Queen’s Chamber and the Subterranean Chamber, both closed to the public.
Next, you have VIP access to the Great Sphinx Enclosure. While other tourists see the Sphinx only from a distant observation terrace, you stand right in front of the world’s largest sculpture.
SPECIAL GUEST:
Dr. Zahi Hawass, the world's most famous archaeologist of the modern era, awaits you between the paws of the Sphinx to share with you all that we know about this enigmatic monument.
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I will tell you all about the latest research and mysteries of the Sphinx and pyramids, including the tunnels under the Sphinx and secret doors and possible hidden chambers in the Great Pyramid.
– Dr. Hawass
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Later, when the Giza Plateau opens to the public, you visit the stone quarry of Giza and the Valley Temple of Khafre, which was used for the Pharaoh Khafre’s mummification and purification before burial. Finally, take in a picturesque overview of the pyramids from a panoramic viewpoint.
VIDEO - THE GIZA PLATEAU with Archaeological Paths - explore differences
Your visit to the Giza Plateau might be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so you want to be sure it is extraordinary. The tour company you choose makes all the difference. Compare two different ways to visit the world’s most iconic archaeological site and see how much of a difference it makes traveling with Archaeological Paths!
Day 5 – Karnak Temple / Private Entry to Luxor Temple
In the morning, you fly from Cairo to Luxor, known in ancient times as Thebes, one of the capitals of ancient Egypt. After checking in to a 5-star cruise ship, you begin your 8-day Nile cruise, continuing your journey to the most impressive monuments from the time of the pharaohs.
Your first stop in Luxor is Karnak, the largest temple complex in the world. Walk through the avenue of sphinxes, gaze up at the towering 97-foot-tall obelisk, and wander among the massive pillars of the Great Hypostyle Hall.
EXCLUSIVE VIP EXPERIENCE:
Later, you are granted the extraordinary privilege of exploring the magnificent Luxor Temple in complete privacy, after it has closed to the public. This UNESCO World Heritage Site remains one of the greatest reflections of the pharaohs’ power and supremacy. During this exclusive visit, reserved solely for guests of Archaeological Paths, you witness the temple’s true grandeur as it comes alive under stunning nighttime lighting, creating an atmosphere that daytime visitors can only imagine. In this intimate, crowd-free setting, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time to the era when pharaohs ruled the world.
In the evening, you explore Luxor Market, an authentic, open-air souk, where you have a chance to connect with locals at every turn and sample regional delicacies.
Day 6 – Exclusive Access to Lost Golden City with Dr. Zahi Hawass / Valley of the Kings / Nile River Cruise
EXCLUSIVE VIP EXPERIENCE:
What if you could uncover the secrets of a city lost for millennia? Today, you take a step back in time – to 3,400 years ago – as you join Dr. Zahi Hawass to explore the Lost Golden City in Luxor, an archaeological marvel so remarkable it’s been called the most significant discovery since the tomb of King Tutankhamun.
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Archaeological Paths offers you an exclusive VIP experience at this newly discovered treasure. Built by the legendary Pharaoh Amenhotep III and dedicated to the sun god Aten, this royal city was once a spiritual heart of ancient Egypt. In 2021, its discovery captivated the world, making headlines as one of the most groundbreaking finds of the century.
Because it remains an active excavation site, the Lost Golden City is closed to tourists, but thanks to special permission from Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, its ancient gates will open just for you.
SPECIAL GUEST:
As our guest, you’ll join Dr. Zahi Hawass, the very man who unearthed this incredible city, on an exclusive visit. Experience firsthand why the Lost Golden City is regarded as one of the greatest archaeological treasures in the world. Dr. Hawass will personally share his latest research and recent discoveries – some so new they’ve yet to be announced!
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EXPLORE NEW DISCOVERIES!
The Lost Golden City lies in Luxor, the epicenter of Egypt’s most groundbreaking discoveries today. According to Dr. Hawass, the upcoming finds here may rival – or even surpass – the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in their significance.
Luxor is also where Dr. Hawass is leading major excavations across multiple sites. New incredible secrets are being unearthed here every day – including newly discovered, intact tombs that have yet to be revealed to the public. As a guest of Archaeological Paths, you’ll be among the first in the world to learn about these extraordinary discoveries, directly from Dr. Hawass himself. Don’t be surprised if you witness the live announcement of a new groundbreaking discovery during your visit!
History is happening here, and with Archaeological Paths, you’ll have a front-row seat to watch it unfold.
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Later, a short motorboat ride across the Nile takes you to the Valley of the Kings. It was a royal cemetery for over 500 years, and 62 pharaohs and other nobles were buried there. In the Valley, you see some of the best-known tombs, including King Tutankhamun’s, which was famously found intact in 1922 by British archaeologist Howard Carter.
The rest of the day is free for leisure. You can enjoy the stunning views of the Nile from the cruise ship’s sundeck while sailing to Edfu or avail yourself of some of the ship’s other amenities. In the evening you are invited to the captain’s cocktail party, where you meet the crew and enjoy delicious local and international cocktails.
Day 7 – Edfu Temple / Nile River Cruise / Q&A Session / Kom Ombo Temple
Begin the day with a visit to the marvelous Temple of Edfu. It is among the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt, built between 237 and 57 BC, and dedicated to the falcon god Horus.
On the way along the Nile to the next site, you can enjoy a drink on the ship’s beautiful sundeck while admiring the local wildlife, flourishing green fields, picturesque villages, palm trees and desert in the distance. Have a swim in the pool or use the ship’s spa, jacuzzi or gym facilities. With all these possibilities for relaxation, do not miss an engaging Q&A session with your Egyptology Expert who answers your questions about history and daily life in both ancient and modern Egypt.
In the afternoon you visit the Greco-Roman Temple of Kom Ombo. It was built between 205 and 180 BC as a place of worship for two gods: Horus and Sobek, the crocodile god. The day ends with a visit to the Crocodile Museum, which houses a collection of mummified crocodiles and ancient carvings.
Tonight’s onboard dinner features exquisite Egyptian cuisine and an Egyptian Night costume party in traditional galabeyas.
Day 8 – Unfinished Obelisk / Temple of Philae / Nubian Village
Today brings you to Aswan and begins with a visit to the Unfinished Obelisk, the largest-known ancient obelisk, lying on its side in a stone quarry. It measures around 140 feet tall and weighs nearly 1,200 tons. Next, you take a motorboat ride to the Temple of Philae, beautifully located on an island. The temple was built in 208 BC and dedicated to the goddess Isis.
After lunch, another motorboat ride takes you through the cataracts of the Nile to a Nubian village. There, you meet the Nubians and visit their homes and local school to experience their way of living. Back on board the cruise ship, you enjoy a Nubian party featuring traditional music and folk dances.
Day 9 – Abu Simbel Temples / Aswan High Dam / Felucca Ride / Aswan Old Souk
Your second day in Aswan starts with a drive to the majestic Abu Simbel Temples, one of the most impressive monuments of ancient Egypt. The temples were carved out of the mountainside in the 13th century BC for Ramses II and his wife Nefertari. On the way back to the cruise ship, you stop to see the imposing 2-mile-long Aswan High Dam. Its construction began in 1960, lasted 8 years and cost $1 billion. The dam ended the cycle of flood and drought in the Nile River region.
After lunch, enjoy a relaxing and scenic ride across the Nile on a felucca, a traditional sailboat. In the evening you stroll through the Aswan Old Souk, an atmospheric open-air market. Don’t forget to try the local shisha and taste some traditional Egyptian tea.
Day 10 – Nile River Cruise / Q&A Session
Today, enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Nile as you sail back toward Luxor. This is your time to unwind — relax on the sun deck, watch the timeless river landscape drift by, and take in the quiet rhythm of life along the riverbanks.
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During the cruise, you will take part in a second Q&A session with your Egyptology Expert. This is an open forum dedicated to the sites you have already explored and those still ahead on your journey. Ask about the mysteries of the temples, the meaning behind the reliefs, the stories of the pharaohs, or any question that has sparked your curiosity along the way. No topic is off limits.
As the Nile carries you southward, enjoy meaningful discussion, fresh perspectives, and the rare opportunity to deepen your understanding of ancient Egypt—all while surrounded by one of the world’s most legendary landscapes.
Day 11 – Special Access to the active excavation area at Deir el-Bahari with Dr. Tarek El-Awady / Temple of Hatshepsut / Colossi of Memnon
EXCLUSIVE VIP EXPERIENCE:
Start the day with the experience goes far beyond what any regular visitor ever sees.
You are granted special access to the active excavation area at Deir el-Bahari – a privilege rarely extended beyond the archaeological community. This visit takes place directly within the excavation zone itself, right beside the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. It’s a rare chance to explore one of Egypt’s most important research sites while work is still underway.
Here, archaeologists are revealing the remains of Queen Hatshepsut’s Valley Temple, along with the names and tombs of high officials from the very beginning of the 18th Dynasty. Discoveries are still being made. Stones are still being turned. Egypt’s Golden Age is being pieced together in real time – and you are there to see it happen.
SPECIAL GUEST:
You explore the site under the guidance of Dr. Tarek El-Awady, Director of Excavations at Deir el-Bahari. You meet him at the dig itself, hear the stories behind the finds, and gain rare, first-hand insight into how history is brought back to light, layer by layer.
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Another the engrossing start of the day, you continue wih a visit to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, one of the most characteristic temples in Luxor. It was built for the most successful female pharaoh to rule over Egypt.
On the way back to the cruise ship you see the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Before dinner, enjoy a traditional belly dance performance.
Day 12 – Saladin Citadel & Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali / Exclusive Lecture by Dr. Zahi Hawass
After your adventure on the Nile, you fly back to Cairo to continue your tour. Enjoy more luxury at a 5-star hotel in Giza before today’s visit to the 12th-century Islamic fortress, known as the Saladin Citadel, and the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali. The mosque was built on the summit of the citadel between 1830 and 1848, bringing an unparalleled contribution to the skyline of Cairo.
SPECIAL GUEST:
In the evening you are invited to a private multimedia lecture by Dr. Zahi Hawass. He shares decades of his research, touching on the mysteries of Tutankhamun, the search for the tombs of Queen Nefertiti and Cleopatra, and new findings around the pyramids and in the Valley of the Kings. After the lecture, join in a Q&A session and enjoy a formal dinner with Dr. Hawass.
Day 13 – Grand Egyptian Museum / Farewell Dinner
You top off your tour with a visit to the long-anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the world’s greatest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, preserving 7,000 years of Egyptian history. The highlight of the visit is the spectacular Pharaoh Tutankhamun collection, displayed in its entirety for the first time. Also not to be missed among the most valuable collection of Egyptian antiquities is the Khufu Solar Boat, which symbolically transported the Pharaoh Khufu from the living world to the afterlife.
In the evening you are invited to a farewell dinner, during which you enjoy live music and celebrate your unforgettable journey across Egypt.
Day 14 – Departure from Cairo
After breakfast, you are transferred to Cairo International Airport for your flight back home.
Please find below a brief summary of the Pre- and Post- Tours. To read the full description of the Extensions, please download our Extensions Travel Brochure – CLICK HERE TO VIEW BROCHURE.
PRE-TOURS:
CAIRO MUSEUMS (1-day add-on)
During this one-day add-on, visit two of Cairo’s most important museums. First, explore the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities in Tahrir Square. It was built in 1902, and its iconic pink-toned walls in the midst of downtown Cairo still house an extensive collection of pharaonic antiquities. After lunch, visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. Just opened in 2017, the museum tells the story of Egypt’s rich history and contribution to world cultures – from ancient times through the Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods – with fascinating exhibitions and artifacts, including royal mummies of the greatest pharaohs.
Price: $995 per person for a double room or $1295 for a single room. The add-on includes accommodation for 1 night at the same hotel as during the main tour.
THE HIDDEN GEMS OF THE GRAND EGYPTIAN MUSEUM (1-day add-on)
All Archaeological Paths tours include a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum. And it’s spectacular. Yet the scale of the world’s largest archaeological museum is such that no single visit can reveal all it holds. This optional add-on offers a distinctive first encounter with GEM. Rather than following the main highlights route, it introduces the museum through quieter galleries, lesser-known masterpieces, and selected artifacts that reveal a different side of this extraordinary institution. It’s a more intimate, in-depth way to begin your journey – designed for guests who enjoy approaching a place from multiple angles and value insight beyond the obvious, before experiencing the museum’s grand narrative later in the tour.
Price: $995 per person for a double room or $1295 for a single room. The add-on includes accommodation for 1 night at the same hotel as during the main tour.
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POST-TOURS:
ALEXANDRIA (1-day add-on)
The tour starts in the morning with a 3-hour drive on an air-conditioned bus. Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt, famous for its Greco-Roman remains and Mediterranean character. The city was founded by Alexander the Great in 332 BC and was the capital of Egypt for more than 300 years. The add-on covers all highlights, including the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqqafa, the Roman Amphitheater, the harbor of Alexandria with the picturesque Citadel of Sultan Qaitbay, and the place where the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – once stood. In the evening you return to your hotel in Cairo for dinner and overnight stay.
Price: $995 per person for a double room or $1295 for a single room. The add-on includes accommodation for 1 night at the same hotel as during the main tour.
JORDAN (5-day add-on)
Experience Jordan on a fascinating tour to a land of ancient wonders. Unveil the secrets of the Rose City of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the desert of Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, with its prehistoric petroglyphs and ever-changing landscape of otherworldly rock formations. Take a relaxing dip in the Dead Sea and visit Mount Nebo, from where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land.
EXCLUSIVE VIP EXPERIENCE:
Petra with an archaeologist: Explore Jordan’s most famous site together with one of the leading archaeologists working there. Learn about the latest research and discoveries made in Petra and uncover the secrets of the Treasury, Petra’s most magnificent temple.
Price: $5985 per person for a double room. Single supplement costs $1295. The add-on starts the day after the Egypt tour ends. You should purchase an additional night at the hotel, so you can use that day to rest, or take part in our 1-day post-tour add-on which includes the cost of the additional night.
Follow in the footsteps of the most cosmopolitan travelers and savor the world of luxury by staying at the most iconic hotels in Egypt. Relish the beauty of 19th-century palaces and colonial-era resorts and enjoy a level of service that would impress even royals and dignitaries.
At the Marriott Mena House you can enjoy truly unparalleled accommodation. The hotel’s setting, with its view of the Pyramids of Giza, has entranced travelers through the ages. The tranquility and fresh breezes have attracted royalty and the rich and famous to this magical location for 150 years. The Marriott Mena House merges the exceptional heritage of the Pyramids standing witness to thousands of years of civilization with Marriott International’s 21st-century tradition of innovation. According to Time magazine, Marriott Mena House hotel is one of the World's Greatest Places to visit. The hotel consists of 331 luxury rooms and suites with private balconies, many boasting views of the Pyramids or the lavish gardens, four restaurants and lounges, and a heated swimming pool and a health club.
The Four Seasons is flanked by Giza’s lush zoological gardens and the western bank of the Nile, and its address in Giza’s prestigious First Residence complex puts you in the center of it all. From the hotel you can catch a glimpse of the river or the Great Pyramids as you head out to explore the ancient wonders this city offers. After sightseeing, spend the day lounging by the pool, indulging in an aromatic massage once reserved solely for Egyptian royalty or shopping three floors of high-end boutiques at the First Mall.
Le Fayan is one of the newest cruise ships available on the Nile, featured on more than one list of the top 10 Nile cruisers. Its 57 spacious rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the beautiful landscapes along the Nile. The boat offers world-class standards and provides attentive hospitality. In your free time you can sip cocktails at the ship’s bar, go to the gym or enjoy the modern sundeck, which boasts tables and chairs along with lounge chairs for sunbathing, a bar, jacuzzi and a swimming pool. A luxury cruise on the Nile is always a memorable experience. It is also the most comfortable way to travel while exploring Egypt’s most renowned temples and historic sites.
Price: $19,985 USD per person (based on double occupancy)
Deposit: Only $1,800 USD required at the time of booking!
Traveling solo? You’re welcome to share a room with another solo traveler from the tour at no additional cost.
Prefer your own room? A single room supplement of $3,985 USD applies.
Payment Schedule:
- $1,800 USD deposit during booking.
- Full payment is due 90 days before the tour.
Price Includes:
Exclusive VIP Experiences as indicated in the itinerary; Special Guests as indicated in the itinerary; Luxury Accommodations as indicated in the itinerary; All sightseeing tours and entries as indicated in the itinerary; Three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on all sightseeing days + dinner on the arrival day and breakfast on the departure day; English-speaking Egyptology Expert as a tour guide; English-speaking Travel Concierge; Domestic airfare; Bottled water during sightseeing; Transfers in air-conditioned buses; Reception at the airport and airport transfers on standard arrival and departure days; Health Insurance (to download the Terms and Conditions of travel insurance click here); Taxes.
Not Included:
International airfare (we can assist you with the booking); $30 USD entry visa (issued and paid in cash on arrival at Cairo International Airport); Tips; Soft and alcoholic beverages; Personal expenses
In order to book your place on the Royal Egypt Tour - PRIVATE EDITION, please click below on the Book Now button and follow the instructions.
Next, make the deposit payment to book your place on the tour. Since the number of places is limited, we encourage you to book this tour as soon as possible. Please, contact us if you have any questions.
JOIN US TODAY!
E-mail: [email protected]
USA phone: 917-724-2772
Other countries: +1 917-724-2772
Office hours: from 8 AM to 5 PM New York Time (Monday to Friday) & from 9 AM to 5 PM (Saturday). Our consultants will be happy to give you all the information you need.
Looking for the full Royal Egypt Tour experience—without prioritizing smaller group size?
We invite you to join the SIGNATURE EDITION of our iconic tour. Priced at $13,985 per person, this edition includes all the same exclusive features and experiences, including special entrances and personal access to Dr. Zahi Hawass and Dr. Mostafa Waziri.
You can expect a group size of approximately 27 participants—compared to 18 guests in our PRIVATE EDITION—while enjoying the identical itinerary and once-in-a-lifetime moments.
Interested in the SIGNATURE EDITION? To learn more and secure your place, CLICK HERE.
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