Splendors of Egypt: An 8-Day Christmas Adventure
The 8-Day Christmas Cairo and Nile Cruise tour is an extraordinary journey through Egypt’s most magnificent and timeless wonders, offering unparalleled luxury, comfort, and excellence. Passion Egypt Tours will provide guests with an unforgettable Christmas experience, exploring the iconic cities of Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan while enjoying the best in private air-conditioned vehicles, luxurious accommodations, and a world-class Egyptologist guide who will reveal the secrets of Egypt’s rich history and architecture.
For eight delightful days, this holiday will uncover the ancient civilization’s remarkable history, mythology, and architectural marvels such as the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx in Cairo, the legendary Temple of Abu Simbel, the mystical Valley of the Kings, the majestic Karnak Temple, the serene Philae Temple, and the enchanting Temple of Edfu. Book this unforgettable Christmas journey to experience Egypt’s stunning beauty and ancient wonders in the most spectacular way.
Tour Availability | Everyday |
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Tour Inclusions |
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Tour Exclusions |
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Tour Highlights |
Giza Attractions
Cairo Attractions
Luxor Attractions
Aswan Attractions
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Details
Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a representative holding an "Passion Egypt Tours " sign. They will guide you through all entry formalities, ensuring a smooth and seamless arrival experience.
You will then be escorted to your luxurious 5-star hotel, where you can check in and unwind.
Sound & Light Show
In the evening, your Egyptologist tour guide will take you to the Giza Complex for a mesmerizing experience at the "Sound & Light Show," where you’ll delve into the history of ancient Egypt, uncovering the stories behind the great pharaohs and their magnificent civilization.
Dinner Time
Following the show, enjoy an exquisite dinner at an enchanting oriental restaurant.
Overnight
After dinner, head back to your hotel to rest and recharge for the Christmas adventures that await.
Meals: Dinner
Overnight: Cairo Hotel
Start your day with a delightful breakfast, followed by an expert Egyptologist guide leading you to the wonders of Giza. Here are some of the landmarks you'll experience:
Giza Pyramids
The Giza Pyramids are one of the most iconic historical landmarks in the world, built for Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Prepare for an immersive experience as you explore these ancient treasures.
The Great Pyramid
The Great Pyramid of Giza, the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was constructed for Pharaoh Khufu (2570 BC - 2534 BC). This colossal structure weighs about 6 million tons and remains one of the most impressive feats of human ingenuity.
The Great Sphinx
The Great Sphinx, a mythical monument embodying the lion’s body and human features, stands in front of the Great Pyramid. It is believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre, constructed between 2558 and 2532 BC, as a guardian of the tombs.
The Valley Temple
The Valley Temple was used for mummification and purification ceremonies for the royal family of ancient Egypt. The temple, built during the Old Kingdom, was dedicated to the Pharaohs of Egypt, symbolizing the connection between life and the afterlife.
Lunch Time
After your fascinating morning, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Cairo with panoramic views of the pyramids.
Saqqara Step Pyramid
The Step Pyramid of Saqqara, built for Pharaoh Djoser, is one of the first monumental stone structures in Egypt. This pyramid design paved the way for later pyramids, and the site is a marvel of early Egyptian engineering.
Memphis City
The ancient city of Memphis, founded around 3100 BC, flourished during the Old Kingdom. This city was the capital of ancient Egypt for much of its early history, known for its advanced infrastructure and impressive architecture.
Overnight
At the end of your exciting day, you'll head to the airport to catch a flight to Luxor, where you will check in at your luxurious hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Flight: From Cairo to Luxor
Overnight: Luxor Hotel
Start your day with a delightful breakfast, then head out with your Egyptologist tour guide to explore the unmatched cultural and archaeological legacy of Luxor. Today's highlights include:
Karnak Temple
Karnak Temple is a sprawling complex that houses majestic temples dedicated to the Theban triad of the 18th dynasty: Amun-Ra, Mut, and Khonsu. This monumental structure was erected between 1971 BC and 30 BC across 247 acres, serving as Egypt's symbol of majesty during the illustrious New Kingdom (1570 - 1050 BC).
You will then transfer to your Nile Cruise to check-in, enjoy a relaxing lunch, and unwind before heading to:
Luxor Temple by Night
Luxor Temple by Night is a celestial haven for the crowning of kings and hosting the Opet festival. The temple is a collection of monuments, with a peristyle court, chambers, and halls steeped in ancient lore. Completed in 1400 BC, it was designed to offer every ruler the chance to prove the rejuvenation of kingship. The southern sanctuary is home to the shrine of Alexander the Great and carries the names of great rulers like Ramses the Great and Amenhotep III.
In the evening, enjoy a sumptuous dinner aboard your Nile cruise while drifting into a serene overnight journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Onboard the Cruise
You will be awakened to a delightful breakfast aboard the Nile Cruise, preparing for an enchanting sojourn to Luxor's west bank. Your guide leads the way to iconic landmarks:
Valley of the Kings
Valley of the Kings is a symbol of legendary mystical allure that for 500 years has acted as a sanctuary cradling the eternal rest of pharaohs and rulers of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties who lived in the New Kingdom (1570 – 1050 BC) within tombs etched deep into the rock. Within the valley are over 63 tombs, including the resplendent resting places of Seti I, Ramses (I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, IX, X), Tutankhamun, Hatshepsut, and other luminaries of the New Kingdom.
Colossi of Memnon
The towering Colossi of Memnon have always been the guardians of ancient lore since their creation in 1350 BC, which stood as a colossal sentinel flanking the path to the mortuary temple of the revered pharaoh Amenhotep III (1386-1353 BCE). The statues are 18 meters high, and each one weighs 720 tons. Plus, it carries some of the most meaningful and informative facts about the pharaoh’s life.
Hatshepsut Temple
The graceful realm of Hatshepsut Temple, known as Deir El-Bahri, "The Holy of Holies," is a testament to Queen Hatshepsut's (1508-1458 BC) glory and beauty. Her overseer and chief architect, Senmut, created the architectural masterpiece, which was completed around 1479 BC. Across the walls of the temple is her life cycle from birth to kingship to rebirth as priestess wife of Amun.
Conclude your west bank odyssey and return to your Nile Cruise, relishing lunch amidst the tranquil waters as you embark on a sailing excursion toward Edfu while enjoying the overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Onboard the Cruise
You will begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast during your enchanting Christmas exploration. You will then join your knowledgeable guide to:
Edfu Temple
Edfu Temple is a magical, revered relic crafted between 237 BC and 57 BC in the Ptolemaic period. Many believe it was built on the legendary battleground of Horus and Set. It was made for Horus, the majestic Falcon God that rises upon ancient ruins dating back to the reign of King Ramses III. Its walls are adorned with inscriptions narrating tales of a bygone era’s language and beliefs during the Hellenistic period.
You will return to your Nile Cruise for a delightful lunch as the ship glides towards Kom Ombo.
Kom Ombo Temple
Kom Ombo blossomed during the Ptolemaic era as an epic trading center, which was erected between 180 BC and 47 BC in homage to two disparate deities—Sobek, the Crocodile God, and Haroeris, the Falcon-Headed God. These temples stand as a testament to Egypt’s historical narrative, which sheds light on the medical and astronomical practices of ancient Egyptian healers and scholars.
As the day concludes, your cruise continues its graceful path towards Aswan. Arriving under the veil of nightfall, embrace a dinner cruise, resting overnight aboard the serene waters of Aswan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Onboard the Cruise
You will begin your day by having your breakfast onboard your cruise. Prepare for a day brimming with wonders, guided by your exceptional tour guide in Aswan, revealing its most breathtaking highlights:
Aswan High Dam
The grandeur of the Aswan High Dam is a monumental sight stretching over 3600 meters long and towering 111 meters tall. This engineering marvel was constructed during the '60s and '70s to provide vital irrigation water, electricity, and employment opportunities, which for decades served as a cornerstone of Egypt’s prosperity.
The Unfinished Obelisk
The Unfinished Obelisk is an epic relic crafted to immortalize the legacy of Queen Hatshepsut. Intended to soar 41.75 meters high and weighing as many as 2000 African Elephants, this unfinished wonder stands as a testament to ancient ambition. The obelisk has the power to showcase the great skill and mastery of the ancient Egyptian builders and artisans.
Philae Temple
The picturesque Philae Temple was created in honor of the goddess Isis on Philae Island during the Ptolemaic age. It was made between 380 and 362 BC in the Ptolemaic era on Philae Island and, in the modern age, rescued from destruction with UNESCO's aid. Its walls whisper tales of Isis and Osiris in intricate detail, showcasing the sacrifice of Isis and her role in resurrecting him and, later on, once serving as a place of Christian worship.
You will conclude your unforgettable Christmas tour by returning to your luxurious 5-star Nile Cruise. Indulge in a delightful lunch and dinner, cherishing the serenity of the Nile. As the day gently winds down, take in the beauty of the surroundings and prepare for your departure the following day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Onboard the Cruise
During your morning, you will have a delightful breakfast aboard your Nile Cruise before your skilled driver takes you away in a private air-conditioned vehicle to Aswan Airport. After your flight back to Cairo, your Cairo tour guide awaits you to begin an unforgettable exploration of the city's treasures during the blessed time of Christmas:
The Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is a revered sanctuary housing Egypt's historical treasures since 1901, where everyone can set their eyes on some of the most inspiring artifacts showcasing Egypt's diverse culture and magnificent civilization.
Lunch Time
You will have a delectable lunch overlooking the Nile at a charming riverside restaurant. Then, join your guide for an expedition to unearth more wonders.
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
The grandiose National Museum of Egyptian Civilization opened its doors in 2021 to shed light on Egypt's 7,000-year legacy. The museum is home to the ancient city of Fustat and houses 100,000 artifacts, including a hauntingly magnificent hall of mummies featuring 33 royal figures from different time periods.
The Hanging Church
The timeless Hanging Church has been an enduring symbol of devotion for over 1,500 years, back to the 3rd century AD. It is found within Cairo's Coptic Christian community. It sits atop a series of Babylonian fortresses, showcasing captivating decorations spanning centuries that echo tales of architectural artistry and dedication.
Al Muizz Street
The golden Al Muizz Street is a magnificent architectural wonder that was crafted in the 10th century during the Fatimid era. Across this lively path lie both early Islamic mosques and palaces rich in history, each bearing the tales of Cairo's expansion and their mastery of architecture.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar
The bustling Khan El-Khalili bazaar is an open-air ancient market dating back to the Mamluk era, made between 1382 AD and 1399 AD. Within this vibrant site are beautiful markets, offering unique treasures from crafts and textiles, with myriads of shops and vibrant aromas.
As the day ends, you will continue your enchanting Christmas tour, where your driver will escort you to your Cairo hotel for check-in, where the night unfolds, wrapping you in the embrace of comfort and cheer.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Flight: From Aswan to Cairo
Overnight: Cairo Hotel
You will enjoy your breakfast at your hotel in Cairo, then check out your private car, and the tour guide will take you to Cairo International Airport to catch your flight home, thus ending your Christmas tour.
Meals: Breakfast
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