Egypt

13 Days 1 Country 6 Cities

🛫 START: Cairo   🛬 END: Cairo
🚗 Private Coach + Domestic Flights    👯‍♀ MAX 14 WOMEN
🏨 8 NIGHTS IN HIGH-END BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS + 4   NIGHTS LUXURY NILE CRUISE

From the dazzling halls of the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum to the timeless magic of the Pyramids of Giza, this journey is a rich, deep dive into Egypt’s storied past and vibrant present. Sail the Nile aboard a luxury cruise, uncover the secrets of desert oases, float above ancient temples in a hot-air balloon, and make unforgettable memories with a group of kindred spirits. This is not just a trip—it’s a sacred adventure designed for women who want meaning, magic, and awe in every step.

This trip is for women who want their travel experiences to be meaningful, rich in culture, and totally unforgettable. If you're intrigued by ancient wonders, open to new friendships, and eager to explore one of the most fascinating places on Earth—you belong here.

You Are:

• Enthralled by history, art, and ancient civilizations

• Open-minded, curious, and flexible

• Comfortable with group travel and changing locations

• Adventurous, but happy with a soft bed and a hot shower

• Seeking connection, inspiration, and a little magic

Unique Considerations for This Trip:

• There will be some early mornings, especially for excursions like the hot-air balloon or intercity travel days

• Expect moderate walking, stairs, and warm temperatures—hydration and comfortable shoes are key

• We’ll visit both major tourist hubs and remote desert locations, so bring a spirit of flexibility and adventure

• Domestic flights are included and allow us to cover more ground comfortably

• Our group size is intimate, which means deeper connections and tailored experiences

Please note that this is a non-smoking trip including accommodations, activities, and transfers.

Please refer to our website HERE for the complete Terms and Conditions.

There are many providers of Travel Insurance. We encourage you to shop for what’s most suitable for you. We, as well as many of our past travelers, have used Travel Insured International and feel it offers very comprehensive and reasonable policies and pricing.

To purchase trip insurance from our preferred provider, Travel Insured International, please CLICK HERE to be taken to Travel Insured International's site. 

Is this trip for solo travelers too?
Absolutely. Many of our travelers come solo and quickly find connection and community. We also offer room-matching upon request for those wanting to share accommodations.

What should I pack?
Egypt in September is warm, so pack breathable, modest clothing (lightweight pants, long skirts, short or long sleeves). Bring a sunhat, sunglasses, scarf for temple visits, a swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen. A full packing list will be sent closer to departure.

Do I need travel insurance?
We recommend all travelers to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage, trip interruption, and cancellation protection.

What airport should I fly into?
You should arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI). We’ll meet you at the airport and provide transportation to the hotel.

Do I have to join every excursion?
No. While we encourage participation to maximize your experience, you're free to skip any activity and enjoy downtime instead.  Some excursions you will have to join as we may be transporting to a new location after, just let us know ahead of time!

How physically active is this trip?
This trip includes moderate activity with some long days — walking through ancient ruins, climbing temple steps, and navigating uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is essential, and while the pace is relaxed, some stamina is needed.

What kind of food will be available?
Egyptian cuisine is flavorful and varied. Expect fresh vegetables, grilled meats, lentil dishes, bread, dates, and local specialties. We can accommodate most dietary needs with advance notice.

Do I need a visa to enter Egypt?
Yes. U.S. citizens are required to obtain a tourist visa for Egypt. We will provide guidance and support for securing your e-visa prior to the trip.

Is Egypt safe for tourists?
Egypt is generally safe in the areas we visit. We work with local experts and experienced guides and avoid regions with travel advisories. We also stay in vetted accommodations and travel in private transportation.

Will there be internet and phone service?

Yes, all accommodations offer Wi-Fi, though speeds may vary. We recommend purchasing an international phone plan or local SIM card if you'd like consistent service.
Please

Note: While cruising the Nile Wi-Fi connection can be unreliable.

What’s the weather like in Egypt in September?

Expect warm days and cooler evenings. Average daytime highs are in the mid-80s°F (29°C), with cooler nights, especially on the Nile.

Will we have access to cash and ATMs?

Yes, ATMs are available in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. It’s also helpful to carry some USD or Egyptian Pounds for tipping or small purchases

Do you offer payment plans?
We do! Options are offered at checkout. If you’d like to discuss further, you are welcome to contact us directly:
📧 letsgo@thedandelionjournals.com
📞 +1 (678) 692-6584

Your Egyptian journey begins in Cairo, the bustling capital known as the "Mother of the World." This sprawling city straddles the past and present, from traffic-clogged roundabouts to 7,000-year-old ruins. Today is all about easing into this new rhythm—welcoming the women who will become your chosen travel sisters and setting the tone for a journey rich in discovery, elegance, and connection.

✈️ Arrival at Cairo International Airport (CAI)
🚌 Private VIP airport transfer
👗 Attire Tip: Comfortable, travel-friendly attire—no formalwear needed this evening

MORNING & AFTERNOON

Arrival in Cairo
Upon arrival in Cairo, you’ll be greeted by a TDJ representative and personally assisted through customs, baggage, and visa procedures. Then, transfer by private car to your elegant Cairo accommodations along the Nile. Settle into your deluxe room, refresh, and rest from your travels.

EVENING

Welcome Dinner – Meet Your Travel Circle
Tonight, the adventure truly begins. Gather with your fellow Dandies for a joyful welcome dinner at one of Cairo’s hidden-gem restaurants. Share mezze platters, roasted lamb, and mint tea as laughter fills the air.

First Toast to the Journey
As plates empty and stories unfold, we raise our glasses to connection, courage, and the days ahead.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale hotel in Cairo

Our first full day in Egypt is a deep immersion into its ancient grandeur. From the treasure-filled halls of the Grand Egyptian Museum to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, we’ll walk in the footsteps of pharaohs, queens, and divine legends. This is Egypt in all its majesty — timeless, towering, and unforgettable.

🚌 Full-day private guided exploration
👗 Attire Tip: Modest attire for cultural sites; comfortable walking shoes; hat or scarf for sun protection

Morning

Breakfast overlooking the Nile
Savor a lavish breakfast spread — flaky pastries, fresh fruit, Egyptian coffee, and honey straight from the comb — the perfect start to an extraordinary day.

The Grand Egyptian Museum
Step inside the awe-inspiring Grand Egyptian Museum, home to more than 100,000 artifacts.

• Wander the immense galleries with your private Egyptologist, who will bring to life the stories of each piece.

• Marvel at the treasures of King Tutankhamun — his golden mask, jewelry, and royal relics gleaming under soft light.

• Gaze up at the colossal statue of Ramses II and learn about the genius engineering that shaped ancient Egypt.

You’ll leave this space with a deeper connection to Egypt’s spirit — awe, reverence, and wonder intertwined.

Afternoon

Lunch in Giza
Enjoy lunch in a peaceful garden restaurant within view of the pyramids. Taste local favorites like koshari, baba ghanoush, and grilled chicken seasoned with aromatic

herbs.

The Pyramids of Giza
Prepare for one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life.

• Stand before the Great Pyramid of Khufu, one of the last surviving Wonders of the Ancient World.

• Explore the Pyramid of Khafre and the Valley Temple, where ancient rituals of mummification once took place.

• Listen as your guide shares secrets of alignment, construction, and devotion that have stood unbroken for over 4,000 years.

The Great Sphinx
Meet the enigmatic Sphinx — guardian of the plateau. Her weathered face and leonine body are symbols of wisdom and mystery, watching silently as centuries pass.

Papyrus institute visit
Before returning to your hotel, stop at a traditional papyrus workshop. Watch how artisans peel, soak, and press papyrus reeds into smooth parchment, then browse hand-painted artworks — a perfect keepsake of the day.

Evening

Group dinner & reflections
Gather once more for a relaxed group dinner, where laughter and storytelling fill the evening air. Reflect on the day’s sights — the majesty of the pyramids, the stillness of the desert, and the awe that binds you to this ancient land.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale hotel in Cairo

Today we venture outside Cairo to uncover Egypt’s earliest pyramids and burial sites in Saqqara—a necropolis that predates even the Great Pyramid. After a powerful morning among ancient tombs, we’ll journey into the peaceful oasis of Fayoum, where slow rhythms and artisan traditions await.

🚌 Overland transfer from Cairo to Fayoum (with excursions en route)
👗 Attire Tip: Modest attire and closed-toe shoes for tombs; sun hat and breathable clothing recommended

MORNING

Breakfast & Hotel Check-Out
Enjoy breakfast before we say goodbye to Cairo and set off for Saqqara, one of the oldest and most fascinating archaeological zones in all of Egypt.

Step Pyramid of Djoser & Saqqara Necropolis
We begin with a visit to the Step Pyramid of Djoser—the oldest stone pyramid in the world. Built during the 27th century BCE, it marked the first monumental tomb of its kind. Our Egyptologist will guide us through the innovations of architect Imhotep and the significance of this royal burial site.

Serapeum of Saqqara & Tombs
Explore the underground Serapeum, a mysterious corridor of massive granite sarcophagi thought to house sacred Apis bulls. Then, visit richly decorated tombs such as those of Mereruka and Kagemni, whose vibrant wall carvings offer a glimpse into daily life over 4,000 years ago.

Imhotep Museum
Conclude your Saqqara visit at this beautifully curated museum dedicated to the genius architect of the Step Pyramid. Artifacts and scale models provide excellent context for all we’ve seen.

AFTERNOON

Carpet School Visit
On the way to Fayoum, we’ll make a short stop at a traditional carpet school where students learn to weave intricate tapestries by hand. See these incredible works in progress and meet the artists carrying on this generational craft.

Journey to Fayoum Oasis
Continue south to the tranquil Fayoum Oasis, a place of palm trees, desert dunes, and still waters. Check into your boutique luxury retreat, a peaceful haven surrounded by golden hills.

EVENING

Dinner Under Desert Skies
Enjoy a peaceful dinner on the terrace as the sun melts into the dunes. The air is warm, the pace slower, and the stars brighter — a perfect setting to breathe, reflect, and simply be.

🏨 Overnight at upscale boutique resort in Fayoum

Today invites you deeper into Egypt’s creative heart. Between pottery workshops, desert waterfalls, and a magical dinner beneath the stars, Fayoum reveals her blend of artistry, culture, and wild beauty.

🚌 Local exploration and desert excursion
👗 Attire Tip: Comfortable, breathable clothing; scarf or wrap for modesty; sturdy closed toe shoes for sand

Morning

Breakfast at the retreat
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast of fresh fruit, local honey, and Egyptian coffee while the desert slowly comes to life.

Tunis Village Pottery Workshops
Head to Tunis Village, the artistic soul of Fayoum. Visit local studios, learn the basics of wheel-throwing, and see how traditional pottery is hand-painted with Fayoum’s signature earthy blues and greens. Try your hand at creating your own keepsake to take home.

Afternoon

Lakeside lunch
Savor a relaxed lunch at an ecolodge overlooking Lake Qarun. The breeze off the water and the scent of fresh herbs make this the perfect pause before the afternoon’s adventure.

Wadi El Rayan Waterfalls & Desert Drive
Travel by 4×4 through rolling dunes to Egypt’s only natural waterfalls. Continue into the desert, where golden sand stretches endlessly and the silence feels sacred.

Evening

Bedouin dinner under the stars
As twilight descends, arrive at a private desert camp lit by lanterns. Share grilled meats, warm bread, and mint tea while Bedouin hosts fill the night with stories and music.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale boutique resort in Fayoum

Today we venture deeper into the Western Desert to a place unlike anywhere else on earth. From a UNESCO World Heritage fossil bed to an intimate cultural exchange with local women, this day is all about natural wonder and human connection. We close our time in Fayoum with rest, reflection, and a memorable farewell meal.

🚌 Excursion to Wadi Al-Hitan and Tunis Village
👗 Attire Tip: Light layers for sun and sand; scarf or wrap for modesty; comfortable walking shoes for the fossil trail

MORNING
Breakfast & Departure for Wadi Al-Hitan
Fuel up on breakfast before we set off for a scenic drive through the desert to Wadi Al-Hitan—"Valley of the Whales."

Wadi Al-Hitan Fossil Reserve
Explore this breathtaking protected site, where fossilized remains of prehistoric whales—some over 40 million years old—are embedded in sandstone formations. Walk the curated trail with your guide, marveling at the preserved vertebrae and skulls that tell the story of Earth’s ancient oceans. This desert was once the sea floor—your feet now tread across prehistory.

AFTERNOON

Feteer-Making with Local Women
Return to Tunis Village for a special hands-on experience with local women artisans. Learn how to make feteer—a flaky, buttery layered bread—using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Share stories, laughter, and warm bread right from the oven.

Free Time at the Inn
Relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or journal in the shade of the garden palms..

EVENING

Farewell Dinner in Fayoum
Celebrate your final night in the oasis with a cozy dinner and a toast to friendship, creativity, and the quiet magic of this place.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale boutique resort in Fayoum

Today we bid farewell to Fayoum and journey south to Luxor—ancient Thebes and the heart of Upper Egypt. After a travel day and check-in, we’ll be rewarded with an enchanting evening visit to Luxor Temple, beautifully lit against the night sky, followed by free time to explore the city’s vibrant souks.

🚌 Drive to Cairo Airport (approx. 2.5 hours), flight to Luxor
✈️ Domestic flight from Cairo to Luxor
👗 Attire Tip: Comfortable travel outfit; bring a light layer for the evening temple visit

MORNING

Departure from Fayoum
We enjoy breakfast, then say goodbye to the oasis as we drive back toward Cairo for our flight to Luxor.

Flight to Luxor
Board a short flight to Luxor, gateway to some of Egypt’s most magnificent temples and tombs. Upon arrival, we’ll be transferred to the Hotel, located along the Nile promenade.

AFTERNOON

Arrival and group lunch
Upon arrival in Luxor, transfer to your upscale hotel overlooking the river. After check-in, we’ll gather for a group lunch — a relaxed meal featuring regional dishes and fresh ingredients. It’s a moment to reconnect, refresh, and take in the new rhythm of Luxor.

Rest and leisure time
Spend the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. Lounge by the pool, enjoy a spa treatment, or simply take in the view of feluccas gliding across the Nile.

EVENING

Luxor Temple by Night
We visit the elegant Luxor Temple, a sacred site linked to rejuvenation and divine kingship. Lit by golden floodlights, its colonnades and statues feel even more majestic under the stars. Your guide will share the story of Amenhotep III and Ramses II as you walk the Avenue of Sphinxes and imagine ancient rituals unfolding where you now stand.

Bazaar walk and dinner
After the temple visit, wander the lively Luxor Bazaar, where vibrant textiles, spices, and silver crafts fill the narrow streets. We’ll end the evening with a group dinner at a local restaurant — authentic Egyptian flavors, candlelight, and stories shared across the table.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale hotel in Luxor

Today begins with monumental history and ends with gentle river breezes. After exploring Karnak’s colossal columns and sacred lake, we’ll board our luxury cruise ship and begin sailing the legendary Nile — a journey through time itself.

🛳 Embark on luxury Nile cruise
👗Attire Tip: Light, breathable attire for temple visits; layers for evening onboard

Morning & Afternoon

Breakfast at the Hotel
Savor breakfast overlooking the Nile before setting out for the day’s exploration.

Karnak Temple Exploration
Visit the vast Temple of Karnak, a complex so immense it feels like its own city. Wander through the Great Hypostyle Hall with its towering papyrus-shaped columns, admire ancient hieroglyphs still vibrant with color, and gaze into the Sacred Lake where rituals of purification once took place.

Lunch Onboard the Cruise
After exploring, transfer to the dock and step aboard your luxury Nile cruise. Settle into your stateroom and enjoy a delicious lunch.

Alabaster and Perfume

Experience the artistry of the region with a visit to a local alabaster factory, where skilled artisans craft beautiful sculptures and decorative items. Discover the intricate process of alabaster production and the rich history behind this unique craft. Afterward, indulge your senses at a nearby perfumery, where you can learn about the art of fragrance creation and sample a variety of exquisite scents. This immersive experience offers a perfect blend of culture and creativity, leaving you with lasting memories and perhaps a souvenir or two!

Evening

Welcome Dinner Onboard
Tonight, dine aboard your cruise ship as the Nile glows under the setting sun. The air is filled with warmth, soft music, and a sense of calm — the perfect start to your river journey.

🏨 Overnight onboard luxury Nile cruise

Today we explore Luxor’s West Bank — a landscape where ancient royalty sought eternal rest. From painted tombs to monumental temples carved into cliffs, every step reveals the stories of Egypt’s powerful rulers and the women who shaped their legacy.

🚌 Guided West Bank tour
👗 Attire Tip: Comfortable attire; walking shoes; hat or scarf for sun protection

Morning & Afternoon

Breakfast Onboard
Begin your day with breakfast as the sun rises over the river — the perfect backdrop to your adventure into Egypt’s royal heart.

Valley of the Kings
Cross to the West Bank to explore the Valley of the Kings, where vibrant hieroglyphs still shimmer in the torchlight of royal tombs. Step inside the resting places of ancient pharaohs, and if you wish, descend into the tomb of Tutankhamun himself.

Temple of Hatshepsut
Visit the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Egypt’s first female pharaoh. Her terraced temple, carved into the limestone cliffs, stands as a symbol of strength, innovation, and divine rule.

Colossi of Memnon
Pause at the colossal statues of Amenhotep III, guardians of the Theban necropolis. Their silent faces have greeted travelers for more than 3,000 years.

Lunch Onboard & Sail South
Return to the ship for lunch, then relax as we begin sailing toward Edfu. Watch the banks of the Nile drift by — children waving from the shore, farmers tending fields, and golden light dancing on the water.

Evening

Dinner Onboard & Reflections
Enjoy dinner in the dining salon as soft music fills the air. Share reflections from the day — the awe, the quiet moments, and the deep sense of history that only Egypt can offer.

🏨 Overnight onboard luxury Nile cruise

Today is a day of mythology and magic as we visit two of the Nile’s most extraordinary temples. Between elegant carvings and sacred stories, you’ll feel the pulse of ancient Egypt still alive along the riverbanks.

🛳 Cruise day with temple excursions
🐎 Carriage ride through Edfu
👗 Attire Tip: Light attire; sun protection; comfortable shoes for temple floors

Morning & Afternoon

Breakfast Onboard
Wake to the gentle rhythm of the Nile and a fresh breakfast buffet featuring fruit, pastries, and warm Egyptian bread.

🐎 Carriage Ride to the Temple of Horus
Disembark for a carriage ride through the streets of Edfu — a charming glimpse of local life. The clatter of hooves, the hum of markets, and laughter from children set a joyful rhythm to the morning.

Temple of Horus at Edfu
Arrive at the grand Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Your guide will bring to life the story of Horus, the falcon god of kingship and light, as you wander through vast courtyards and towering pylons.

Lunch Onboard & Sail to Kom Ombo
Return to your cruise for a leisurely lunch before sailing south toward Kom Ombo. Watch the world glide by from your deck chair as palms sway and fishermen drift past in wooden boats.

Kom Ombo Temple Visit
In the late afternoon, visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, a rare double temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Explore intricate carvings that depict ancient surgical instruments, calendars, and rituals of healing.

Evening

Dinner & Stargazing
Return to the ship for dinner and a quiet evening on deck. The desert sky above is dazzling — a sea of stars mirrored on the Nile’s surface.

🏨 Overnight onboard luxury Nile cruise

Aswan greets us with color, warmth, and rhythm. Today is filled with graceful temples, river breezes, and a glimpse of Nubian culture that feels both timeless and alive.

🛶 Boat excursions & cultural exploration
☀️ Sunset felucca sail
👗 Attire Tip: Light, airy clothing; hat for sun; sandals for walking on deck

Morning & Afternoon

Breakfast Onboard
Enjoy breakfast as the ship docks in Aswan — the Nile at its most serene and beautiful.

🛶 Boat Ride to Philae Temple
Take a motorboat across calm waters to Philae Island, where the Temple of Isis rises like a dream from the river. Dedicated to the goddess of love and magic, its elegant colonnades seem to float on sunlight.

High Dam Visit
See the Aswan High Dam, a monumental feat of modern engineering that tamed the river and created Lake Nasser — a reminder of how Egypt continues to balance tradition with progress.

Visit to Nubian Village & Lunch
Cruise upriver to a vibrant Nubian Village, where bright blue and coral-painted homes line the shore. Share a home-cooked lunch of spiced rice, grilled meats, and hibiscus juice with local hosts. Hear their stories, laughter, and music that speaks to the soul.

Evening

☀️ Sunset Felucca Sail
Board a traditional wooden felucca as the sun turns the Nile to liquid gold. The sails catch the evening wind, and the city glows softly against the desert backdrop — a moment of pure serenity.

Dinner Onboard & Celebration
Return to the ship for your final dinner on board. The crew bids farewell with warm smiles, and the evening ends with laughter, music, and the sparkle of the Nile under starlight.

🏨 Overnight onboard luxury Nile cruise

After days spent tracing the flow of the Nile, we return to Cairo — hearts full and spirits light. Today is about slowing down, resting, and savoring the glow of everything we’ve experienced.

✈️ Flight from Aswan to Cairo
👗 Attire Tip: Comfortable travel outfit

Morning & Afternoon

Breakfast & Departure
Enjoy breakfast onboard before disembarking and transferring to the airport for your short flight north to Cairo.

Arrival & Leisure Time
Check into your elegant Cairo hotel. Spend the afternoon at your leisure — unwind by the pool, enjoy a spa session, or perhaps do a little shopping.

Evening

Group Dinner
We’ll gather for a relaxed dinner nearby — light fare, laughter, and easy conversation as the journey begins to wind down.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale hotel in Cairo

Our final full day is a graceful blend of art, faith, and celebration — a closing chapter to a journey filled with beauty and belonging.

🏛 Sightseeing in Historic Cairo
🎉 Farewell Dinner Celebration
👗 Attire Tip: Smart casual for dinner; modest attire for religious sites

Morning & Afternoon

Breakfast at the Hotel
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out to explore.

National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Discover Egypt’s story from ancient times to the modern day, including the fascinating Hall of Royal Mummies.

Citadel of Salah El-Din & Mosque of Muhammad Ali
Admire panoramic views of the city from this historic fortress, then step inside the mosque to see its grand alabaster domes and delicate chandeliers.

Coptic Cairo
Stroll through narrow streets to the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue — places where faith and history coexist in harmony.

Lunch at a Local Café
We’ll stop for a simple, delicious lunch — lentil soup, fresh bread, and spiced meats served with refreshing mint lemonade.

Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Spend the afternoon wandering through Cairo’s most famous market. Shop for treasures or enjoy mint tea at a centuries-old café as you watch the lively swirl of the city.

Evening

🎉 Farewell Dinner Celebration
Our final night is a celebration of friendship and reflection. Gather for a beautifully set dinner at one of Cairo’s traditional restaurants,

As we share our last meal together, we’ll toast to the memories made, the laughter shared, and the journey that will stay with us long after we return home.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale hotel in Cairo

The journey concludes with heartfelt farewells and a smooth return to the airport. Carry home the memories of ancient wonders, desert oases, and the sisterhood forged along the Nile.

🚌 Private transfer to Cairo International Airport
👗 Attire Tip: Comfortable travel outfit; layers for changing climates

MORNING
Breakfast & Airport Transfer
Enjoy one last breakfast at the hotel before check-out. Private transfers ensure a seamless departure with hugs, final photos, and promises to stay connected.

🏨 No overnight stay