SOLAR ECLIPSE 2027:
EGYPT TOUR OF THE CENTURY
July 30 - August 6, 2027
(8 days)
with
Dr. Zahi Hawass
World’s Most Famous Archaeologist
Dr. Khaled El-Enany
Egypt’s First Minister of Tourism & Antiquities
Dr. Ashraf Mohie El-Din
Director General of the Giza Pyramids Plateau
Dr. Tarek Tawfik
Director of the Grand Egyptian Museum Project
An Astronomy Expert
Embark on an extraordinary journey through Egypt to witness the most anticipated celestial event of our lifetime – THE ECLIPSE OF THE CENTURY – from the most spectacular location imaginable: the LOST GOLDEN CITY in Luxor. Celebrated as Egypt’s DISCOVERY OF THE CENTURY and known for its ancient solar worship, this legendary site remains closed to the public and untouched by the modern world. However, for this once-in-a-lifetime event, it will be open exclusively for Archaeological Paths’ guests. No one else on Earth will experience this phenomenon like you when you join us!
A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EVENT
On August 2, 2027, the daytime skies over Luxor will darken as the moon perfectly eclipses the sun for a breathtaking 6 minutes and 22 seconds. There won’t be a total eclipse of this duration for another 87 years, so join us to witness the eclipse of the century from this unforgettable location.
THE ONE AND ONLY PLACE TO WITNESS IT – THE LOST GOLDEN CITY
Our tour promises an experience like no other. While most eclipse chasers will flock to the crowded temples in Luxor or gather on cruise ships and at their hotels, you will observe this astronomical wonder from the most enviable spot on the planet.
Archaeological Paths offers you an exclusive VIP experience in the newly discovered Lost Golden City. Dedicated to the sun god Aten, this archaeological marvel is the very place where Egyptians worshipped the sun 3,000 years ago. As 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.
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Here, under the same sky that once inspired awe in the ancients, you’ll witness the longest total solar eclipse of your life in a setting that will connect you with the distant past like no other location can.
There’s no better place on Earth to witness the eclipse of the century than the Lost Golden City, Egypt’s own discovery of the century.
WORLD-FAMOUS ARCHAEOLOGISTS & SCIENTISTS BY YOUR SIDE
Your experience will be enriched by the presence of two legendary figures in Egyptology: Dr. Zahi Hawass, the world’s most famous archaeologist and the man who uncovered the Lost Golden City, and Dr. Khaled El-Enany, the First Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. Imagine the secrets they’ll unveil and the insights they’ll provide as you stroll through the ancient city with the very people who brought it to life.
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An astronomy expert will also be at your side to guide you through the mechanics and science of this extraordinary eclipse. Private lectures and real-time insights will help you grasp the full magnitude of this rare event.
AND SO MUCH MORE
In addition to witnessing the eclipse of the century, over the course of this luxurious tour you’ll explore Egypt’s most iconic sites: Marvel at the pyramids of Giza during a private, crowd-free visit, discover the treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum on a VIP tour with one of the museum’s directors, and wander through the majestic temples at Luxor and Karnak like ancient pharaohs once did. Enjoy private entries, VIP experiences, and intimate access to ancient wonders, all in the company of the world’s most renowned archaeologists.
DON’T MISS THIS CHANCE TO WITNESS HISTORY LIKE NO ONE ELSE!
Join us for this exclusive VIP tour of Egypt during which history, archaeology, astronomy and ancient wonders converge. Discover ancient sun gods and modern astronomical science while enjoying a front-row seat to the eclipse of the century. This is not a dream – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event, and Archaeological Paths offers you a truly unique luxury experience that no other tour can match.
July 30 - August 6, 2027
Open places
Dr. Zahi Hawass
World's Most Famous Archaeologist
For over 20 years, Dr. Zahi Hawass held the keys to all Egyptian antiquities, first as the Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities and then as the Minister of Antiquities. Thanks to his major discoveries and TV documentaries featuring his adventures and expertise, Dr. Hawass has become the world’s most famous archaeologist. He has earned several honorary degrees, has written more than 50 books about Egypt and was recognized by Time magazine as one of the world’s 100 Most Influential People.
Dr. Hawass will accompany you during the Solar Eclipse of the Century in the Lost Golden City, and give you a multimedia lecture to present decades of his research, share his expert observations, and reveal the most exciting discoveries recently made in Egypt.
Dr. Khaled El-Enany
Egypt’s First Minister of Tourism & Antiquities
Meet with Dr. Khaled El-Enany, one of the most influential figures in Egyptian archaeology and tourism. Learn firsthand about the newest discoveries and exciting research from Dr. El-Enany, who supervised all of Egypt’s ancient and tourist sites for six years. Between 2016 and 2019, he was Minister of Antiquities, and then from 2019 to 2022, he served in the newly established joint ministry as its first Minister of Tourism & Antiquities. During his tenure, Dr. El-Enany oversaw the construction of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Dr. El-Enany continues to teach Egyptology and is affiliated with several universities worldwide, a number of scientific institutions, and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
During your tour, Dr. El-Enany will accompany you during the Eclipse of the Century in the Lost Golden City, and give a private lecture, followed by a Q&A session and a special dinner. This is your chance to get exclusive insight into the past, present, and future of Egyptian archaeology and the inside story on Egypt’s treasures.
Dr. Ashraf Mohie El-Din
Director General of the Giza Pyramids Plateau
Renowned archaeologist Dr. Ashraf Mohie El-Din oversees one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites – the Giza Pyramids Plateau, home to the Great Pyramid and the Great Sphinx. He has appeared as a frequent guest on the National Geographic channel and has delivered lectures worldwide. He has played a vital role in various scientific endeavors at the Giza Plateau, making numerous invaluable discoveries.
He has been field director of multiple excavations at the Plateau and other significant locations, including Saqqara, the site of Egypt’s oldest pyramid. As a representative of the Ministry of Antiquities, Dr. El-Din has led notable heads of state, royalty, and celebrities on tours of Egypt’s most important sites.
Now, he invites you to join him on an exclusive VIP tour of the Giza Plateau and the Great Sphinx, where he will bring to life their undisclosed secrets. During this unique experience, you will gain exclusive insights into recent excavations, groundbreaking research, and discoveries that have yet to be made public.
Dr. Tarek Tawfik
Former Director General of the Grand Egyptian Museum
As Director General of the Grand Egyptian Museum, Dr. Tarek Tawfik was instrumental in moving the museum toward completion, including overseeing the transport of 50,000 artifacts from other museums to their new home. He still plays a key role as part of the scientific committee making the museum a destination in its own right.
Dr. Tawfik has directed many excavations all over Egypt, has published numerous scientific articles and books and serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Egyptian Archaeology. He teaches archaeology at Cairo University and is a visiting professor at several major universities worldwide. Dr. Tawfik is also a member of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities as well as the High Committee of the Ministry of Antiquities for Museums and Exhibitions.
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.
SPECIAL ACCESS TO THE GREAT SPHINX ENCLOSURE
Marvel at a once-in-a-lifetime chance to touch the Great Sphinx and watch the sunset from between its huge paws.
VIP TOUR OF THE GRAND EGYPTIAN MUSEUM
Explore the country’s latest landmark in the company of Dr. Tarek Tawfik, a director of the Grand Egyptian Museum project.
EXCLUSIVE VIEWING OF THE ECLIPSE OF THE CENTURY IN THE LOST GOLDEN CITY
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There’s no better place to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event than the Lost Golden City, an ancient site dedicated to the sun god Aten and a center of solar worship. Accompanied by Dr. Zahi Hawass, the very man who uncovered this extraordinary site, you’ll have exclusive access to this discovery – closed to all but Archaeological Paths’ guests.
Eclipse of the Century – Witness the longest total eclipse of the century, a cosmic spectacle the likes of which won’t be seen again for 87 years, from the most extraordinary location imaginable – the Lost Golden City of Luxor.
Grand Egyptian Museum – Delve into the world’s largest collection of pharaonic treasures, including King Tut’s famous golden mask.
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. Next, take in the sight of the magnificent Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx.
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.
Abydos & Dendera – Explore Abydos Temple, the burial place for the first kings of unified Egypt, and Dendera Temple, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt.
Day 1 (Friday, July 30) – 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 five-star hotel in Giza that offers spectacular views of the pyramids. The anticipation begins here, with the ancient wonders of Egypt setting the stage for the eclipse of the century in two days.
Day 2 (Saturday, July 31) – Saqqara / Private Entry to the Giza Plateau / Private Entry to the Great Pyramid / Special Access Between the Paws of the Great Sphinx with Dr. Ashraf Mohie El-Din
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. 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.
After lunch, it is time to experience the most iconic ancient site – the Giza Plateau. First, 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. Next, you are driven to a panoramic viewpoint to take in a picturesque overview of the pyramids.
Later, when the Giza Plateau closes to other tourists, you are granted special permission to visit the site privately. This crowd-free experience is typically offered only to royals, heads of state and other honored guests.
First, you are granted VIP access to the Great Sphinx Enclosure. While other tourists see the Sphinx only from a distant observation terrace, you – in the company of your Egyptology Expert and the setting sun – stand right in front of Egypt’s oldest monumental sculpture.
During this visit, you will be joined by none other than Dr. Ashraf Mohie El-Din, Director General of the Giza Pyramids Plateau. You will gain exclusive insights into recent excavations, groundbreaking research and discoveries that have yet to be made public. You’ll be captivated as Dr. Mohie El-Din describes a restoration project underway at the Great Sphinx and reveals the hidden tunnels that lie beneath it.
Next, you enjoy private entry to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing today.
While tour guides are not allowed to enter the pyramid on other group tours, you’ll be accompanied by an Egyptologist—a unique opportunity to gain expert insights into the mysteries and secrets of the world’s greatest pyramid.
Additionally, exclusively for you, the Director of the Giza Pyramids opens two additional chambers inside the pyramid – the Queen’s Chamber and the Subterranean Chamber, both closed to the public.
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After a day exploring the most recognizable ancient site in the world, you return to the hotel to prepare for tomorrow’s journey to Luxor.
Day 3 (Sunday, August 1) – Flight to Luxor / Karnak Temple / Lecture with Astronomy Expert
In the morning, you fly from Cairo to Luxor, known in ancient times as Thebes, one of the capitals of ancient Egypt, where you check in at a luxurious five-star hotel.
Later, you explore 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.
As the day draws to a close, the excitement in anticipation of what’s coming tomorrow reaches new heights. To prepare you for the eclipse of the century, we have arranged an exclusive lecture with an astronomy expert who will offer deep insights into the celestial mechanics and significance of this phenomenon. Learn about the phases of the eclipse, the science behind it, and the unique circumstances that make this particular eclipse so extraordinary. After this enriching lecture, you are fully prepared to understand and appreciate every moment of the event tomorrow.
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 4 (Monday, August 2) EXCLUSIVE VIEWING OF THE ECLIPSE OF THE CENTURY –VIP EVENT in the Lost Golden City with Dr. Zahi Hawass and Dr. Khaled El-Enany / Additional Lectures with Dr. Hawass and Dr. El-Enany / Luxor Temple in the Evening
Get ready for an experience that words can scarcely capture. Today, as the moon blocks out the sun’s light for a full 6 minutes and 22 seconds, you will be among the privileged few to witness this celestial phenomenon from the Lost Golden City, Egypt’s greatest discovery of the century. This ancient city is closed to the public, but its gates will open exclusively for Archaeological Paths’ guests for this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.
Dedicated to the sun god Aten, the Lost Golden City offers the perfect setting for this day to remember. This is the very place where ancient Egyptians worshipped the sun 3,000 years ago. Imagine standing in this sacred city, a place untouched by the modern world, feeling as if you’ve stepped back in time to witness the sun god’s glory once again.
Two of Egypt’s most distinguished figures, Dr. Zahi Hawass, the world’s most famous archaeologist and the man who discovered the Lost Golden City, and Dr. Khaled El-Enany, Egypt’s First Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, will join you for this incomparable experience. They’ll offer insightful narratives and historical context that will enrich your memories of this day.
An astronomy expert will also be on hand to describe the intricate celestial mechanics that result in a total solar eclipse, how astronomers predict when they’ll occur and where they’ll be visible, and the significance of this particular eclipse, which features the longest duration of totality in our lifetime – an astonishing 6 minutes and 22 seconds.
When the awe-inspiring eclipse of the century has ended, you return to your luxurious accommodation for two exclusive lectures – first with Dr. Hawass and then with Dr. El-Enany, who personally introduce you to the most recent discoveries and restoration work across Egypt. These enlightening sessions will delve deeper into the mysteries of ancient Egypt and the significance of the Lost Golden City. Hear firsthand accounts of groundbreaking finds made at this excavation site and learn about hidden treasures that may still lie beneath the sands of Egypt.
Following the lectures, it’s time to explore the magnificent Luxor Temple. It was built over hundreds of years by New Kingdom pharaohs including Tutankhamun and Ramses II. To this day the temple is one of the greatest reflections of the pharaohs’ power and supremacy.
It’s an intimate conclusion to an extraordinary day, one you will remember for the rest of your life. The stories you’ll hear, the knowledge you’ll gain, and the memories you’ll create – all in the company of the world’s foremost Egyptologists – add up to a truly unforgettable experience!
Day 5 (Tuesday, August 3) – Dendera Temple / Abydos Temple
Start the day by visiting Dendera where you explore a temple dedicated to the goddess Hathor. This is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Its colossal columns and spectacular ceilings covered with vibrant and colorful paintings set it apart from other temples.
Next, discover Abydos Temple, also known as the Temple of Seti I, who began its construction. The temple is built of white limestone and, artistically, represents an attempt to restore the old ways after the heresies of Akhenaten. It was once the holiest site in the land and the burial place for the first kings of unified Egypt.
After sightseeing, you return to Luxor.
Day 6 (Wednesday, August 4) Valley of the Kings / Temple of Hatshepsut / Colossi of Memnon / Flight to Cairo
After breakfast, 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.
Next, visit 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.
Later, admire the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III.
In the afternoon, you fly to Cairo to continue your exploration of Egypt.
Day 7 (Thursday, August 5) - VIP tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum with Dr. Tarek Tawfik
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.
You will explore the museum’s treasures with Dr. Tarek Tawfik, a director of the Grand Egyptian Museum project. Dr. Tawfik oversaw this mammoth project for many years, including organizing the move of 50,000 artifacts from other museums to their new home. Learn the inside story and secrets of the museum with someone who was instrumental in its planning.
In the evening, you have a farewell dinner with live Egyptian music and celebrate your unforgettable journey across Egypt.
Day 8 (Friday, August 6) - Departure from Cairo
After breakfast, you are transferred to Cairo International Airport for your flight home. As you depart, take with you the unforgettable memories of this extraordinary journey, from awe-inspiring ancient wonders to a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event.
Please find below a brief summary of the Pre- and Post- Tours.
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: $1295 per person for a double room or $1695 for a single room. The add-on includes accommodation for 1 night at the same hotel as during the main tour.
MEMPHIS & DAHSHUR (1-day add-on)
Discover Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, and Dahshur, home to the Bent and Red Pyramids. In Memphis, you visit a historical open-air museum and admire a monumental statue of Ramses II carved from limestone. Dahshur gives you a chance to explore two of the oldest, largest and best-preserved pyramids in Egypt – the Bent and Red Pyramids, built for Pharaoh Snefru.
Price: $1295 per person for a double room or $1695 for a single room. The add-on includes accommodation for 1 night at the same hotel as during the main tour.
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: $1295 per person for a double room or $1695 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.
Accommodation on our tours is carefully and meticulously selected, thus, we book only the best available hotels in Egypt.
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.
Prices Starting From:
• $9,985 – Double Occupancy (for early bookings only!)
• $2,985 – Single Supplement
Payment Schedule:
• $1,800 first deposit – during booking
• $1,800 second deposit – until June 30, 2026
• Remaining balance – until February 1, 2027
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; Meals as indicated in the itinerary; 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; Basic 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); $25 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 tour, please click below on the Book Now button and follow the instructions.
Next, please make the deposit payment to confirm your place on the tour. Since the number of places is limited, we encourage you to book the tour as soon as possible. Please contact us if you have any questions.
E-mail: contact@archaeologicalpaths.com
USA phone: 917-724-2772
Other countries: +1 917-724-2772
Office hours: 8am–8pm EST Monday–Friday & 9am–5pm EST Saturdays.
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