Pyramids & Pharaohs in Egypt

Visit the history-soaked Land of the Pharaohs and discover the wonders of Egypt through thrilling experiences. We quad bike by the Pyramids of Giza, kayak down the Nile and sandboard down dunes. There’s also time to explore the islands around Aswan by felucca, sleep in a Nubian guesthouse, and take a sleeper train cross-country. It’s an adventure-packed trip for those who want to combine can’t-miss attractions, cultural experiences and lesser-known spots.

Enjoy a range of accommodation styles on this Egyptian adventure, where we have downtime in four- and five-star (local rating) hotels, while also spending a night on a sleeper train and staying in a Nubian guesthouse. Below are the hotels we typically use.



Cairo: Hyatt Regency Cairo West (nights 1 and 2)







Our time in Egypt begins in style with a stay at this contemporary five-star resort with views of the Pyramids of Giza. There are plenty of facilities to enjoy, including a year-round pool with a sunken bar, a 24-hour gym, and a spa. There are plenty of dining options too, including a European food hall, a Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant, and an industrial-style lounge bar serving cocktails.



Cairo to Aswan: Sleeper train (night 3)







We travel from Cairo to Aswan on the overnight sleeper train. We stay in first-class cabins, which are compact and have bunk beds. Bedding is provided. The train tends to shake due to the condition of the track and is quite noisy. Earplugs are a good idea. A basic dinner and breakfast are provided, you may wish to take snacks with you. There is a shared toilet in each carriage.



Aswan: Anakato Hotel (nights 4-6)







Spend three nights immersing yourself in Nubian culture, language, songs and food at Anakato Hotel, where we stay in traditionally styled accommodation. The meals are homemade (typically Nubian tajines) with ingredients freshly picked from their farm.



Luxor: Steigenberger Nile Palace (nights 7 and 8)







Our adventure ends at this rather grand hotel beside the Nile. There’s a pool overlooking the river plus a spa and fitness area. The selection of dining options is vast and includes: Nubia, a Nubian-themed eatery; the Nile Bar and Lounge, which serves light bites and is well worth visiting during sunset; and The View, where you can enjoy ‘creative culinary art’ with vistas over the Nile and Theban mountains.



Worth knowing



The sleeper trains in Egypt are fairly dated so although classified as first class you should be prepared for a lower standard than Western countries.