Unforgettable Egypt

Explore ancient and modern Egypt, eat like a Pharaoh, and discover the mysteries of the Giza Plateau and the Valley of the Kings.

8 Days | From $4,199

Iconic Culture, Rich Legacy

Welcome to Egypt! Straddling the worlds of Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East, Egypt is a modern-day cultural icon with a legacy to back it up. Claiming the Nile Delta home from 6000 B.C.E. and onward, Egypt is considered a cradle of world civilization. At every turn, monuments both ancient and modern rise above Saharan sands and the gentle Nile River to offer a glimpse of what was, what is, and what may be.

About your trip

Experience the hustle and bustle of Cairo and eat like a Pharaoh with ancient ingredients. Discover the mysteries of the Giza Plateau and the Great Sphinx. Venture south to Nubian Aswan to hike and kayak along the reed-filled banks of the Nile. In Luxor, we’ll venture to the Valley of the Kings and cycle our way through a living piece of history.

What’s included

  • All activities mentioned on the itinerary

  • Boutique hotel accommodations

  • Transportation from Cairo airport to the hotel on day 1

  • 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners and more

  • El Camino’s exclusive Eat, Play, Shop Guide

  • Experienced local host with you throughout the trip

  • Flight to Aswan on day 4

Not included

  • Airfare in and out of the country

  • Mandatory travel insurance

  • Incidental expenses

  • Alcohol except where noted

  • Entrance to Nefertari's tomb or museums.

  • Transportation from Luxor hotel to the airport at the end of the trip

Travelers must provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their journey. If you’d like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process. If you need assistance please contact our Customer Success team.

Itinerary

Flight

☞Please remember to book separately

Day 1

☞Arrival in Cairo (CAI) | Welcome dinner prepared by food archaeologist

Day 2

☞Giza Plateau and Grand Egyptian Museum visit | Lunch at Pyramids


Day 3

☞ Free morning | Culinary walking tour


Day 4

☞ Ibn Tulun Mosque visit | Flight to Aswan

Day 5

☞  Philae Temple visit | Hike and kayak along the Nile | Felucca sailing experience 

Day 6

☞ Journey to Luxor | Precinct of Amun-Re visit

Day 7

☞Exploring the Valley of the Kings | Farewell dinner

Day 8

☞Depart from Luxor (LXR)

Your Itinerary

  • Welcome to Cairo!

    !مرحبا بكم في القاهرة, pronounced, Marhaban bikum fi al qahira! Welcome to Cairo! You’ll be whisked away from the airport to our accommodations for the next few nights. Along the way, your senses will come alive as you take in the hustle and bustle of this megacity that’s home to 21+ million residents. Freshen up at the hotel before meeting the rest of your travel mates for a welcome feast, where you’ll get your first taste of Egyptian cuisine with a menu fit for Pharaohs that was curated by a food archeologist.

  • The Giza Plateau

    Enjoy your breakfast and then grab some comfy walking shoes—today you’re venturing to the Giza Plateau, home to the last remaining wonder of the ancient world—the Great Pyramid and Sphinx.

    Share your thoughts on the Giza Plateau over lunch, where you’ll enjoy traditional Egyptian dips and breads. You’ll have some free time after lunch which you can use to relax at the hotel, or to check out some of the hidden gems that we’ve included in your Eat, Play, Shop guide that you’ll receive prior to departure.

  • Egyptian Food Tour

    Take your time this morning getting to know the city on your own terms, or reflecting on yesterday's discoveries from the hotel. The group activities will begin around 1 pm, where you’ll partake in a culinary walk in Downtown Cairo to sample the best Egyptian street food such as Koshary, Basbousa, and Egyptian Goulash. With a full belly and a greater understanding of local traditions, you’ll return to the hotel to spend the evening doing as you please. Whatever you’re into—exploring more markets, or checking out Egypt’s fashion scene—we’ve got you covered with our favorite recs in your Eat, Play, Shop guide.

Solo female travelers gaze out at sunset on Nile River cruise.
  • Journey to Aswan

    This morning we're heading to Ibn Tulun Mosque, one of the oldest standing mosques in Egypt, where you will learn more about Islam before proceeding to a museum next door, a 17th-century house known for its labyrinth of rooms filled with objet d'art and inspiration for your next interior design project. You’ll have time to enjoy lunch boxes that have been prepared for ECT by a local organization that provides migrant, refugee, and Egyptian women vocational training through sustainable food production. Then we fly to Aswan, an ancient trading city that’s known as the most beautiful city in the south and is labeled by UNESCO as a Creative City for crafts and folk art. We’ll check into our accommodations for the next two nights. Built along the Nile, the location allows you to take in the natural beauty, riverfront breezes, and sunsets of Aswan.

  • Hike, Kayak, and Nubian Lunch

    Enjoy your breakfast this morning—you’ll need plenty of energy for a big day ahead as we learn more about Nubian culture. Nubia was speculated to be the world’s first (or one of the first) civilizations, and their modern-day descendants go by the same name. After a 1.5–hour hike along the banks of the Nile, hop aboard a motorboat to the Philae Temple, an ancient and modern-day marvel that was off-limits to the public in ancient times due to its reverence as the resting place for the god, Osiris. Next, we'll head to a Nubian eco-lodge for lunch, where we’ll get to try traditional and endangered Nubian cuisine which includes vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. After lunch, the adventure continues as we kayak on the Nile. Later this evening, you’ll board a traditional felucca (sailboat) for a cruise down the Nile to admire the desert sunset as we enjoy some refreshments.

  • Lavish Luxor

    After breakfast, you’ll depart Aswan by road for Luxor. There’s plenty to see in the city described as “the world’s greatest open-air museum.” After grabbing some lunch, we'll stop at the Precinct of Amun-Re at Karnak, one of the largest religious temple complexes in the world. Spend the afternoon marveling at the expansive complex, which features corridors of sphinxes, pylons, and monuments to pharaohs and gods. Watch in awe as the sun sets over Luxor Temple then spend the evening getting some R+R back at our new hotel, a stunning oasis where the domes, arches, ceramic fountains, and open-air patios will make you feel like you’re in an Arabian palace.

  • Valley of the Kings and Farewell Dinner

    Today we explore the Valley of the Kings; 63 tombs (that we know of) were sealed away to protect the Pharaohs within, including the tomb of the legendary King Tutankhamen. From the cursed tunnels of King Tut’s tomb, we venture to the Temple of Hatshepsut, one of two known female Pharaohs. Later on in the day, we’ll cruise down the west bank of the Nile via bike during golden hour. From there, you’ll continue to our final dinner, a communal gathering overlooking the Nile. Reminisce on your travel highlights while breaking Sun Bread—bread baked from the direct sunlight of the desert and then browned in the oven—and all the dips to go with it.

  • Farewell Egypt

    Say your goodbyes over breakfast before heading to the airport. Leave inspired by the spirit of Egypt’s legacy experienced over the last few days, and return home feeling renewed by the time-locked landscapes and people found in this wondrous place.

Accomodations

Please be aware that while we have reserved these hotels, there may be rare instances where changes are required due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, we will do our best to secure comparable accommodations, but due to timing, availability, and local infrastructure, options may be limited. Rest assured, we’ll do everything possible to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

  • In Cairo, we've selected Villa Belle Epoque for its blend of historic charm and modern elegance. Tucked away in the leafy Maadi neighborhood, this boutique hotel offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. With its early 20th-century architecture and beautifully restored interiors, Villa Belle Epoque exudes a timeless ambiance, complete with lush gardens and a refreshing outdoor pool. The rooms are thoughtfully designed, combining vintage touches with contemporary comforts. Whether enjoying a meal at the on-site restaurant, which celebrates local flavors, or relaxing in the serene outdoor spaces, Villa Belle Epoque offers a refined and intimate escape in the heart of Cairo.

  • Nestled in the heart of Aswan, Nub Inn offers a peaceful retreat along the banks of the Nile. Combining traditional Nubian charm with modern comfort, the hotel’s comfortable rooms offer stunning views of either the river or the surrounding desert landscape.

  • In Luxor, we've chosen the stunning Al Moudira Hotel for its exquisite blend of Arabian and Mediterranean influences, creating a truly unique and luxurious atmosphere. Situated on the West Bank, this boutique hotel is a peaceful oasis away from the city's historic sites, with stunning architecture that evokes the charm of an old-world palace. The rooms are individually decorated, featuring hand-painted ceilings, antique furnishings, and rich textiles that add to its authentic character. Surrounded by lush courtyards and a refreshing pool, Al Moudira offers a tranquil escape. Guests can enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine at the on-site restaurant or relax in the beautiful gardens, making it a perfect retreat after exploring Luxor’s ancient wonders.

Important Notes

  • In light of the developments between Israel and Gaza, we understand that there might be concerns about travel to Egypt and how El Camino is monitoring the situation. Our first and sincerest hope is that, with concerted international efforts, the situation will de-escalate, bringing stability to the region.

    For our travelers and those considering our Egypt trips, we want you to know that we are continuing to run our Egypt trips as scheduled with little to no significant itinerary adjustments.

    For more details click here.

  • Experiencing Egypt with a local expert it’s essential. We’ve thoughtfully planned this trip in tandem with our partners on the ground to show you the best of Egypt. It can be tempting to try to do it all, but the burnout is real. We’ve created the ultimate flow to keep you busy and intrigued without overdoing it.

    In Egypt, you will experience the hustle and bustle of Cairo and eat like a Pharaoh with ancient ingredients. Discover the mysteries of the Giza Plateau and the Sphinx. Venture south to Nubian Aswan to hike and kayak along the reed-filled banks of the Nile. In Luxor, we’ll venture to the Valley of the Kings and cycle our way through a living piece of history.

    On this immersive, 8-day experience, we'll indulge in slow travel by taking our time to deeply explore the rich and unique culture of this multifaceted country. Join us on a one-of-a-kind exploration into this country and be prepared to fall in love with its people, ancient history, and modern-day charm.

  • Fly into Cairo International Airport (CAI). Please note that the trip ends in Luxor (LXR).

  • Please note that El Camino does not handle or monitor flights and is unable to make changes with any airlines. If you need help with your flight search once you reserve your spot, we have a travel advisor that we can recommend who specializes in flights. She can be used at a small fee for those having trouble finding the best option during your flight search or who would like further assistance. She knows all the details regarding our trips and may be able to find better fares and routes than what you can find on your own.

    More information will be given post booking on how travelers should work with their travel coordinator if they experience any delays or issues to ensure that we can update our local teams at your destination to arrange an adjusted pickup. If your return/outbound flight is altered at the end of your trip, we will do our best to support your needs.

  • This trip is for the traveler who has an adventurous spirit, is looking to squeeze the most out of their time in Egypt, and cares about making the world a better place through responsible tourism. The trip is filled with experiences that allow you to be immersed in the varied cultures of Egypt. This traveler is open-minded, inherently curious, and enjoys indulging in the moment. This trip is for the traveler who finds joy in stepping outside of their comfort zone, loves trying new things, and is excited to explore a culture completely different from their own. This trip is available to travelers from all walks of life who are over the age of 18.

    While El Camino Travel provides a high level of customer service, our traveler is someone who is easy-going and amenable to explore this cradle of world civilization.

    This trip is also for a solo traveler who does not want to travel solo, but instead with an interesting group of people and for those who do not want to spend countless hours planning a trip of a lifetime.

    Our adventurous style of group travel is not for everyone. Please read carefully through the itinerary and the above description to ensure that you are booking a trip that fits your comfort level.

    Please review our Traveler’s Values here prior to booking.

  • We are not luxury travel, but we're not budget either. So what exactly does that mean? At El Camino Travel, we're all about the high-low. We enjoy fine dining but we also love street food. We fly coach but you can find us in the airport lounge. We'll splurge on something special like handmade pottery or a one-of-a-kind hand-sewn dress, but we also love searching online for a good deal. We love great style and design, but we also get excited about off-the-beaten-path experiences that are a little rough around the edges. We pride ourselves on designing trips that are authentic and real, understanding that any country is comprised of many lenses and lived experiences and that we can't possibly showcase them all.

    This duality can be seen in our trips. Our trips represent boutique travel—not luxury, not budget. We won't be staying at hostels but we won't be at luxury hotels either. We choose boutique hotels where we can prioritize things like location, character, charm, safety, and customer service.

    Sometimes we do experiences that feel more high-end. Sometimes we're going *way* off the beaten path to do something entirely unique, and sometimes that means it's a little unpolished. Our traveler is someone who enjoys both ends of the spectrum and understands that one isn't more authentic than the other.

    Luxury travel usually means a lot more hand-holding. While we provide a high level of customer service, our traveler is a little more adventurous and self-sufficient. We provide blocks of free time so you have the flexibility to explore the destination your way because we understand that everyone is different. Don’t worry though, we will make sure you are equipped with a curated list of all our favorite places to eat, play, and shop for when you are out on your own with your new travel friends.

    For some additional context, a luxury-travel version of our trips would start anywhere from $8,000-12,000. We mix the high-low versions of a destination to keep our trips more accessible.

  • Please note that our standard pricing is based on shared double rooms. This allows us, among many things, to keep the cost of the trip accessible to as many travelers as possible. If you’re booking this trip with a friend, family member, or significant other, let us know and we’ll place you together.

    Traveling solo? No problem—the majority of our travelers choose to fly solo. We’ll be in touch before the trip to learn a bit about you and find the best fit for a roommate. We will make it a priority to best situate you and we’re happy to chat more in-depth if you have any questions or concerns about this.

    Single room upgrades are available! A limited number of single rooms have been reserved. Please select this option at checkout if you’d prefer your own space. If all the single rooms have already been filled, please email us at info@elcamino.travel and we'll let you know if we can secure additional rooms to accommodate a single.

    We'll have more details regarding hotels prior to your trip, but we promise we chose these locations because they pass the El Camino standard of customer service and are clean, safe, and well-maintained.

    It's important to note that our accommodations are not luxury or high-end. We seek more boutique accommodations that are well-situated and allow us to make the most of our itinerary.

  • We have a roster of well-qualified hosts that we work with. Prior to your trip, you will receive a welcome packet that will inform you of who will be guiding your adventure. We proudly work with local hosts because no one is better equipped to provide layer upon layer of context than someone who is actually from there.

  • A non-refundable $500 deposit is due at the time of booking. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure.

    Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions for more information about our cancellation policy.

  • We encourage travelers to aim to arrive no later than 3 pm on the first day of the trip. This should allow you time to settle in ahead of any welcome activities.

  • Our trips are very active, and involve a lot of walking, standing, and moving around—sometimes, in very high temperatures, with high humidity, on uneven roads and terrains, in busy cities. While we work to accommodate all travelers, other modes of transportation are not always available, due to infrastructure, making walking the only option. Travelers should be willing and able to walk anywhere up to 4 miles each day, up and down stairs and hills, and be able to stand for extended periods of time. If you have any concerns or questions about the activity level of this trip, have recently had surgery, or have any history of mobility issues, please reach out to us at info@elcamino.travel before booking—we want to ensure that everyone on our trips is safe, and will able to keep up with the active itinerary. By signing up for any of our trips, you agree to and understand that a certain level of physical fitness is required to safely participate in this itinerary.

Solo female travelers look out at river on Nile cruise.

What Our Travelers Say

I went on my first El Camino trip to Egypt this year and absolutely loved it. I went with a close friend and we had an unforgettable adventure. El Camino provided expert travel guidance through a wonderful tour guide for the ancient sites, boutique hotels and excellent food. I'll definitely be booking another El Camino experience!

Allison S.