Spectacular ancient monuments, vast desert and golden beaches make Egypt an exciting destination for all. We begin our adventure in exciting Cairo visiting the world-famous Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx; even the smallest children will be amazed at these magnificent wonders of the ancient world! Catching the overnight sleeper train to Aswan, we experience vibrant Nubian culture and bustling bazaars before drifting along the Nile on a traditional felucca. Downstream in Luxor, we explore the hidden tombs of the Pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings. We round off our holiday at the beach resort of Hurghada, where we venture beneath the waves to discover the brightly coloured fish and corals of the Red Sea.

We use a range of four-star (local rating) properties throughout this trip. Below are the places we typically use during our time in Egypt.



Cairo: Helnan Dream Hotel (nights 1 and 2)







In Cairo we typically use the Helnan Dream Hotel which is a short drive to the Pyramids and is located next to the Dreamland Amusement park, a great place to visit if you arrive a day or two before the tour starts. The Helnan has a large pool, a children's pool and hot tub. It has great sitting areas around the pools and an indoor and outdoor restaurant.



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: Basma Hotel (night 4)







On the highest hill in Aswan, directly opposite the Nubian Museum, the Basma occupies a privileged spot. Rooms come in a mixture of styles, many with views over the city or the Nile, and you can spend your free time cooling off in the expansive pool. The property is also home to The Lotus restaurant, which serves an eclectic mix of international and local cuisines, plus the Vienna Cafe, where you can enjoy light bites, hot drinks and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.



Luxor: Steigenberger Nile Palace (nights 5 and 6)







In Luxor, we stay 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.



Hurghada: Sea Star Beau Rivage (nights 7 and 8)







Enjoy a private sandy beach with sun umbrellas, sunbeds and wind protection or hop into the swimming pool when you stay at the Sea Star Beau Rivage. The are also two outside lounge areas, a cafe and a bar, plus an eight-hole mini-golf course.



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.

Wifi is chargeable at the Sea Star Beau Rivage (approximately US$6.40 a day) and only available close to the reception area, not in the rooms. Please also note, Hurghada is a resort town and some guests could be in party mode.