Classic Egypt
Trip highlights
- Spend a day exploring ancient pyramids at Saqqara and Giza
- Visit the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple in Luxor
- Cruise along the Nile to the towering temple of Edfu
- Marvel at the temples at Abu Simbel, built by Ramses II
- Immerse yourself in the captivating Nubian community
- Venture to a jazz club or belle-Ć©poque cafe in Cairo by night
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Marvelling at Abu Simbel
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Up close at the temple of Edfu
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Aboard the Oberoi Zahra
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Sunset over the pyramids of Giza
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Majestic temple remains at Karnak
Our bespoke trips include
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1ā4 Cairo
- Days 4ā7 Cruising the Nile
- Days 7ā8 Aswan & Abu Simbel
- Days 8ā11 Cairo
- Days 1ā4 Cairo
- Days 4ā7 Cruising the Nile
- Days 7ā8 Aswan & Abu Simbel
- Days 8ā11 Cairo
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below youāll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Explore the wonders of Cairo
Set on the banks of the Nile, Egyptās capital Cairo is steeped in history. Its astonishing heritage sites and diverse neighbourhoods, both modern and traditional, enthral. Known as the ācity of a thousand minaretsā due to its concentration of Islamic architecture, Cairo is a vibrant multicultural hub. Take some time to wander the streets of Old Cairo to witness the rich tapestry of the three major monotheistic religions that have left their mark on this extraordinary place and spend a whole day visiting Saqqara and the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Where you could stay
Cairo
Highlights
- 331 rooms
- Outdoor pool
- Spa and gym
- Three restaurants
- Bar
- Walking distance from pyramids
Overview
If you’re looking for iconic views of the pyramids and beautifully-curated historic dĆ©cor, then Mena House Cairo is a great option. Situated less than a kilometer from the ancient structures at Giza, the hotel boasts lovely gardens, a pool, and rich, traditionally Egyptian design elements. The walls of the historic property are lined with old photos of the surrounding area. Sections of the hotel have been reconstructed, to update and breathe new life into the rooms.
When it comes to exploring, the pyramids are within walking distance, and the hotel is also well placed for venturing into the city of Cairo itself. Return to Mena House after a day of discovering all the region has to offer and relax at the outdoor pool or book at treatment at the spa. The hotel’s three restaurants and bar will ensure you don’t go hungry. 139 Pavilion serves indoor and outdoor a la carte lunches and dinners accompanied by live music, as well as the main hotel buffet breakfast. You’ll find authentic Indian cuisine on the menu at the Moghul Room restaurant, and Italian favourites at Alfredo Italian Restaurant.
ā Find out moreCairo
Highlights
- 365 rooms
- Spa with 14 treatment rooms
- Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room
- Indoor heated pool
- 24-hour dining
- Outdoor pool
- Upper deck lounge
- Adults only
- 5 restaurants and 3 bars
Overview
Perched upon the banks of the timeless Nile River, the Four Seasons at Nile Plaza stands as a beacon of luxury and elegance, a testament to refined hospitality amidst the bustling cityscape. Inside, every modern convenience has been thoughtfully incorporated, seamlessly blending contemporary amenities with classic elegance.
The Four Seasons Nile Plaza offers a range of meticulously appointed accommodations, each thoughtfully designed to provide the utmost comfort and tranquillity. Whether you choose a spacious suite or a lavish guest room, you are treated to panoramic views of the river or the vibrant cityscape of Cairo, immersing you in the enchanting beauty of your surroundings.
Savour the art of gastronomy at the Four Seasons Nile Plaza’s unparalleled dining establishments. Indulge in a symphony of flavours at their Zitouni Restaurant, where world-class chefs craft exquisite Egyptian culinary masterpieces using the finest locally sourced ingredients. Immerse yourself in a captivating ambience as you sample Italian coastal cuisine at Riviera, or discover traditional Lebanese cuisine at Byblos.
On their rooftop, a cosy upper deck lounge invites guests to linger and share a handpicked selection of tapas and cocktails. After a hard day’s exploring, settle down at La Galerie and enjoy their daily entertainment ranging from piano, guitar, violin, bass and saxophone (on daily rotation).
ā Find out moreCairo
Highlights
- 362 rooms and suites
- Seven restaurants and bars
- Gym and spa
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- Library
Overview
With outstanding views of Old Cairo and the Nile, St Regis Cairo offers you luxury and state-of-the-art facilities with a nod to the region’s local heritage. The riverfront hotel is an impressive landmark with 362 family rooms, suites and apartments spread across 36 stories, expertly designed by renowned architect Michael Graves. A stay here is all about personalised service.
St Regis Cairo also boasts an impressive seven carefully-curated restaurants and bars offering everything from Italian favourites and American classics, to Asian-inspired dishes to poolside Mediterranean dining. Menus are an exciting blend of culture and innovation and your dining experience is complemented by each restaurant’s signature dĆ©cor and stunning views.
When you’re not out exploring, take time to unwind at Iridium Spa with a menu of treatments designed to offer your complete rejuvenation. And the St Regis Athletic Club will help keep your fitness journey on track, as will the indoor and outdoor pools.
ā Find out more
Explore Cairo
Ancient knowledge
Old Cairo
Sightseeing
Sightseeing
An expert briefing
Meet with an expert academic Egyptologist for a private meeting that will help you to understand the fascinating history of this incredible part of the world.Ā You will gain a basic understanding of ancient Egyptian sacred art and hieroglyphics, the fundamental principles around tombs and the afterlife.
Explore Old Cairo
Step back in time and delve into the captivating history of Old Cairo (Fustat), a city that emerged in 641 as the seat of power for Egypt’s first Muslim rulers. Flourishing for centuries, it experienced a tragic turn of events in 1168 when its young ruler, King Athid, set it ablaze to prevent its capture by the Crusaders. Today, amidst ongoing restoration efforts, it remains an extraordinary place.
Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation
Embark on an extraordinary journey through time at the magnificent National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC). Opened in 2021, this meticulously designed museum invites you to step into a world of wonder” a vast collection of 50,000 artifacts spanning from prehistoric eras to the present.
Discover the pyramids
Giza and Saqqara
Of the seven wonders of the ancient world, only one remains today: The Great Pyramid of Giza. Before you visit Giza though, you’ll visit the more ancient pyramid site of Saqqara, where you’ll learn about the history and evolution of these pyramid structures. You’ll then head to Giza which served as a way for kings to journey to the next world and emerge as gods. The Great Sphinx with its head of a man and body of a lion, gazes imposingly across the valley.
Cruise the Nile from Luxor to Aswan
You will spend the next four nights onboard the Oberoi Zahra, relaxing in luxury as you sail along the waters of the Nile from Luxor to Aswan. Luxor was once the ancient city of Thebes, renowned for its captivating ruins, and here you will bask in the magnificence of the temple of Karnak, before heading to Luxor temple when evening falls to see it light up the night sky like a beacon. Conclude your time in Luxor with an exploration of the Valley of Kings and the mystical West Bank, where youāll encounter remarkably preserved burial chambers and delve into the intriguing legends of the Pharaohs.
On your route down the Nile, youāll make stops at notable sites like the towering temple of Edfu, adorned with inscriptions depicting ancient battles. At the charming temple of Kom Ombo, youāll learn about ancient Egyptian medicine and hygiene practices, while the adjacent museum will fascinate you with its preserved crocodile mummies.
Your luxury Nile vessel
Luxor
Highlights
- 27 cabins and suites
- Restaurant
- Club lounge
- Library and cigar lounge
- Private spa suite
Overview
Settle into your cabin or suite on this luxurious Nile cruiser and watch the wonders of Egypt unfold as you drift along the river. The Oberoi Zahra is a great way to discover the magnificent temples and culture along the banks of the Nile and beyond. When not on land exploring, there is a programme of traditional dance and music performances to keep you entertained while on board.
There are 27 cabins and suites to choose from with Nile views and luxurious bathrooms, all-day fine dining in the restaurant, as well as a variety of personalised spa therapies available.
ā Find out more
Nile highlights
Karnak
Luxor
The West Bank
Edfu
Kom Ombo
The West Bank
Edfu
Kom Ombo
Kom Ombo
Karnak Temple
Karnak reigns as the pinnacle of Luxor’s sacred landscape. As the earthly abode of the sun god Amun-Re, Karnak held immense significance in the spiritual tapestry of ancient Egypt, showcasing a breathtaking ensemble of shrines, obelisks, and temples.
Luxor Temple
Revel in the atmosphere and cooler temperatures on an evening visit to Luxor temple. These statues and the obelisk were signs of fertility and prosperity. The temple of Luxor dates to 1400 BCE and was intended for priests rather than the general public. This is also the site where kings were crowned. Alexander the Great claimed to have been crowned at Luxor, but in fact it is unlikely he travelled this far south.
In the Valley of Kings
The mystical West Bank of Luxor, once the renowned necropolis of Thebes, is symbolically positioned where the sun bids its farewell.Ā This ethereal city of the departed embodies the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Admire the miraculously preserved burial chambers, like Queen Nefertari’s, and delve into legend as you witness the world-renowned discovery of Howard Carter ā the complete tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun.
Edfu Temple
The towering temple of Edfu, also known as the temple of Horus, is extremely well preserved and dedicated to the falcon god, Horus. Itās believed to have been constructed during Ptolemaic times, about 200 BCE, later than many of Egyptās key monuments. Today,Ā the entire structure of the sanctuary ā walls,Ā floorĀ and ceiling ā remain intact.
The Crocodile Temple
The enchanting temple of Kom Ombo lies midway between Luxor and Aswan.Itās dedicated to both Horus, the falcon god, and Sobek, the crocodile god, who represents earthly instincts and was revered out of fear. This unique double temple embodies the idea that good and bad reside within each of us. To honour Sobek, priests once selected living crocodiles to reside in this sacred space. Today, preserved crocodile mummies can be seen at the adjacent museum.
Aswan and a detour to Abu Simbel
As your journey nears its end, a detour will take you to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel where youāll marvel at the monumental temples built by Ramses II to demonstrate the might and glory of Egypt ā and stand in awe before the colossal twin statues carved into the mountainside. Youāll return to your boat by air, for a visit to a Nubian village along the banks of the Nile, a tour of Aswan Dam and the remarkable temple of Philae, and your final night on the water.
Local highlights
Temples
Nubian culture
The Aswan dam
The Aswan dam
Exploring Abu Simbel
The remarkable temples Abu Simbel feature 20m tall twin statues of Ramses II carved into the mountainside. Knee high to Ramses, you’ll see his wife Queen Nefertari and his children, their diminutive form indicative of their lower status. The rescue story of these monuments from the rising waters of Lake Nasser is also remarkable ā the monuments were cut into blocks and then moved, stone by stone, to more elevated land.
Experience Nubian hospitality
In Aswan, you can meet the Nubian community of Egypt. The Nubians, an ethnic group hailing from Northern Sudan and Southern Egypt, have been an integral part of the Nile region for centuries, renowned for their expertise in trading. Your tour will take you beyond the surface, offering an authentic glimpse into the lives of the Nubian people, led by villagers themselves.
Visiting Lake Nasser
Much of what you see in Aswan is in some way connected with the momentous damming of the Nile here during the 1960s to control the annual flooding and create Lake Nasser. The ambitious project took decades to complete. The scale of the engineering works is impressive and standing at the top of the dam you will enjoy sweeping views of the lake and the surrounding arid desert scenery.
Return to Cairo for three final nights
Finally, your trip draws slowly to a close with three nights back in Cairo where youāll get to discover more about modern day Egypt and how this city specifically has been shaped by the past. Enjoy a night on the town in Downtown Cairo, discover the best of Egyptās contemporary art and design scene, and visit the Adly Street Synagogue.
Where you could stay
Cairo
Highlights
- 362 rooms and suites
- Seven restaurants and bars
- Gym and spa
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- Library
Overview
With outstanding views of Old Cairo and the Nile, St Regis Cairo offers you luxury and state-of-the-art facilities with a nod to the region’s local heritage. The riverfront hotel is an impressive landmark with 362 family rooms, suites and apartments spread across 36 stories, expertly designed by renowned architect Michael Graves. A stay here is all about personalised service.
St Regis Cairo also boasts an impressive seven carefully-curated restaurants and bars offering everything from Italian favourites and American classics, to Asian-inspired dishes to poolside Mediterranean dining. Menus are an exciting blend of culture and innovation and your dining experience is complemented by each restaurant’s signature dĆ©cor and stunning views.
When you’re not out exploring, take time to unwind at Iridium Spa with a menu of treatments designed to offer your complete rejuvenation. And the St Regis Athletic Club will help keep your fitness journey on track, as will the indoor and outdoor pools.
ā Find out moreCairo
Highlights
- 331 rooms
- Outdoor pool
- Spa and gym
- Three restaurants
- Bar
- Walking distance from pyramids
Overview
If you’re looking for iconic views of the pyramids and beautifully-curated historic dĆ©cor, then Mena House Cairo is a great option. Situated less than a kilometer from the ancient structures at Giza, the hotel boasts lovely gardens, a pool, and rich, traditionally Egyptian design elements. The walls of the historic property are lined with old photos of the surrounding area. Sections of the hotel have been reconstructed, to update and breathe new life into the rooms.
When it comes to exploring, the pyramids are within walking distance, and the hotel is also well placed for venturing into the city of Cairo itself. Return to Mena House after a day of discovering all the region has to offer and relax at the outdoor pool or book at treatment at the spa. The hotel’s three restaurants and bar will ensure you don’t go hungry. 139 Pavilion serves indoor and outdoor a la carte lunches and dinners accompanied by live music, as well as the main hotel buffet breakfast. You’ll find authentic Indian cuisine on the menu at the Moghul Room restaurant, and Italian favourites at Alfredo Italian Restaurant.
ā Find out moreCairo
Highlights
- 365 rooms
- Spa with 14 treatment rooms
- Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room
- Indoor heated pool
- 24-hour dining
- Outdoor pool
- Upper deck lounge
- Adults only
- 5 restaurants and 3 bars
Overview
Perched upon the banks of the timeless Nile River, the Four Seasons at Nile Plaza stands as a beacon of luxury and elegance, a testament to refined hospitality amidst the bustling cityscape. Inside, every modern convenience has been thoughtfully incorporated, seamlessly blending contemporary amenities with classic elegance.
The Four Seasons Nile Plaza offers a range of meticulously appointed accommodations, each thoughtfully designed to provide the utmost comfort and tranquillity. Whether you choose a spacious suite or a lavish guest room, you are treated to panoramic views of the river or the vibrant cityscape of Cairo, immersing you in the enchanting beauty of your surroundings.
Savour the art of gastronomy at the Four Seasons Nile Plaza’s unparalleled dining establishments. Indulge in a symphony of flavours at their Zitouni Restaurant, where world-class chefs craft exquisite Egyptian culinary masterpieces using the finest locally sourced ingredients. Immerse yourself in a captivating ambience as you sample Italian coastal cuisine at Riviera, or discover traditional Lebanese cuisine at Byblos.
On their rooftop, a cosy upper deck lounge invites guests to linger and share a handpicked selection of tapas and cocktails. After a hard day’s exploring, settle down at La Galerie and enjoy their daily entertainment ranging from piano, guitar, violin, bass and saxophone (on daily rotation).
ā Find out moreExploring the city
Current affairs
Cairo by night
Contemporary culture
Synagogue
Contemporary culture
Synagogue
Expert insight
Step away from the ruins of the past and explore the Egypt of today as you meet with an expert speaker for an approximately hour long briefing. Your guide for this fascinating talk will be either a journalist, writer, risk analyst and think tank professional who will be able to explain the current state of affairs in Egypt today. Topics covered will include the Arab Spring and how the country has been shaped since then. You will discuss the main opportunities and challenges in Egyptian politics, society and economy, along with an explanation on the role of the military and much more.
Explore Cairo with a local guide
Embark on an evening exploration of the vibrant city alongside a knowledgeable local resident, well-versed in the captivating food and drink scene. Together, you’ll venture into the wide promenades of Downtown Cairo to discover the bustling shopping scene, diverse culinary delights and elegant belle-Ć©poque cafes before the evening ends atop a rooftop bar.
A curated cultural tour
Enjoy a journey through one of Cairo’s most luxurious neighbourhoods, where modernity meets Egyptian art and design in a harmonious blend. You’ll visit four unique venues, each showcasing the best of Egypt’s contemporary art and design scene including Egypt’s premier modern bookstore, contemporary fabrics, Egyptian jewellery and a photographic art gallery.
Cairo synagogue visit
This immersive experience is a must for those passionate about Jewish history and heritage. Explore Elephantine Island, where the earliest recorded Jewish presence dates back to Jewish mercenaries. Learn about the renowned Medieval Jewish community of Cairo, home to influential figures like Maimonides. Delve into the 19th-century influx of Jewish immigrants from the Ottoman Empire, Italy and Greece. And witness how the Jewish community became deeply integrated into Cairo’s society, leaving an indelible mark on trade, art, culture, newspapers, and cinema.
Why book with Jacada
Personalised design
Weāll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
