Egypt

9 Nights / 10 Days | Small Group (Max 16 Travelers)

Cairo • Luxor • Nile Cruise • Aswan

🛫 START: Cairo   🛬 END: Cairo
🚗 Private Coach + Domestic Flights + Nile Cruise   

Egypt is a destination that stirs something deep — ancient, powerful, and unforgettable.
This Premium Egypt journey offers a beautifully designed way to experience the country’s most iconic sites with elevated comfort and expert local guidance.

This is a small-group journey, shared with travelers from around the world and led on the ground by licensed Egyptologist guides and trusted local teams.

The Dandelion Journals offers this experience in collaboration with our partners and provides thoughtful pre-trip support—so you feel prepared, informed, and confident before departure. While the journey itself is led locally, every experience we offer is carefully vetted and designed with the same care and intention you expect from The Dandelion Journals.

You’ll be wonderfully guided, well supported, and free to fully enjoy the adventure.

Why Choose the Premium Egypt Journey

• Small group experience capped at 16 travelers (women and men welcome)

• 24/7 local support

• Hyatt and Intercontinental 5 Star level accommodations in Cairo

• Guaranteed outside cabins on the Superior 5 Star Nile cruise

• Licensed, Experienced, and Fluent English speaking Egyptologist guides

• Expertly planned itinerary featuring Egypt’s most iconic sites

• Pre-trip virtual gatherings hosted by The Dandelion Journals to introduce Egypt’s history, culture, and travel flow

• Dandelion Journals Welcome Gift upon arrival

• Optional extensions to Petra (Jordan) or the United Arab Emirates

• Opportunity to make the journey private for groups of six or more

This journey is open to women and men and may include international travelers.

Premium Egypt is ideal for travelers who:

• Want to experience Egypt with elevated comfort and expert guidance

• Appreciate a smaller group and upgraded accommodations

• Are comfortable traveling on a partner-operated journey

• Value TDJ support before travel, without on-the-ground hosting

• Are looking for an iconic Egypt experience with thoughtful pacing

This journey is open to women and men and may include international travelers.

Important Note: Premium Egypt is operated by trusted local partners. The Dandelion Journals facilitates access and provides pre-trip support but does not host or lead this journey on the ground.

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

Please refer to our website or 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.

What should I pack?
Egyptweather varies by season and locale. In general, we recommend packing breathable, modest clothing (lightweight pants, long skirts, short or long sleeves). Bring layers to adjust to tempretures in day versus nigh, and city versus desert. 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 require 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! There are some optional excursions for extra cost.

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.

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 journey begins in Cairo, a city layered with ancient history and modern life, where minarets rise beside centuries-old neighborhoods and the Nile flows steadily through it all.

🛬 Arrival day
🧳 Light travel day

Arrival in Cairo
Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you’ll be met and assisted by the local team before transferring to your hotel. As you drive through the city, you’ll catch your first glimpses of Cairo’s energy — lively streets, glowing shopfronts, and the hum of daily life.

Evening

Dinner on your own

Optional Evening Ideas (Cairo):

This evening is intentionally unstructured. Settle into your room, unpack, and rest after your travels.

If you’re feeling energized after arrival, consider a gentle evening outing such as a short walk near the hotel or a relaxed dinner overlooking the Nile. Your local team can recommend nearby restaurants for your first taste of Egyptian cuisine.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale hotel in Cairo

A first encounter with Egypt’s timeless majesty

Our first full day in Egypt is a deep immersion into its ancient grandeur. From museum halls filled with treasures to monuments that have stood for millennia, today is unforgettable.

🚌 Full-day guided exploration
👕 Attire Tip: Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for cultural sites; breathable fabrics; comfortable walking shoes. A hat or light scarf is recommended for sun protection.

Morning

Breakfast at Hotel

After breakfast, meet your licensed Egyptologist guide.

The Grand Egyptian Museum
Step inside one of the world’s most significant cultural institutions. Wander vast galleries as your guide brings ancient Egypt to life through stories of pharaohs, artisans, and belief systems.

Marvel at the treasures of King Tutankhamun, including his golden mask and royal relics, and stand before the colossal statue of Ramses II.

Afternoon

Lunch in Giza

Enjoy lunch at a garden restaurant near the pyramids, sampling local Egyptian dishes prepared with aromatic herbs and spices.

The Pyramids of Giza
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 while learning about ancient engineering, ritual, and devotion.

The Great Sphinx
Encounter the enigmatic Sphinx, guardian of the plateau and enduring symbol of mystery and wisdom.

Papyrus Institute Visit
Watch artisans transform papyrus reeds into parchment and browse hand-painted works inspired by ancient motifs.

Evening

Dinner on your own

Optional Evening Experience:
For those interested, an optional Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids may be available. Watch the monuments illuminated against the night sky as stories of ancient Egypt are narrated beneath the stars.

🏨 Overnight in Cairo

From modern capital to ancient Thebes

Today, we journey south to Luxor, once the powerful city of Thebes and still one of the most extraordinary archaeological landscapes in the world.

✈️ Domestic flight
👕 Attire Tip: Comfortable travel clothing; light layers for changing temperatures.

Morning

Breakfast at Hotel
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Luxor.

Afternoon

Arrival in Luxor
Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. Luxor feels calmer and more intimate, with the Nile shaping daily life.

Optional activities may be available, or simply rest and enjoy the hotel.

Evening

Dinner on your own

Optional Evening Ideas (Luxor):
Take a leisurely stroll along the Nile corniche, stroll the bazaar, visit the Luxor Temple at night, enjoy tea at a local café, or relax at the hotel. Luxor evenings are quieter and offer a beautiful contrast to Cairo’s energy.

🏨 Overnight at an upscale hotel in Luxor

Stepping onto the River of Life

Today, you explore one of Egypt’s greatest temple complexes before beginning your journey along the Nile.

🎈 Optional early-morning experience
🚢 Nile cruise embarkation
👕 Attire Tip: Comfortable walking shoes; breathable fabrics; sun protection recommended.

Early Morning (Optional)

Hot Air Balloon over Luxor
Float above temples, fields, and desert at sunrise, offering a breathtaking perspective of the ancient landscape.

Morning

Breakfast at Hotel & Check-Out

Karnak Temple Complex
Walk through the immense Karnak Temple, built over nearly 2,000 years. Towering columns and sacred spaces reveal how religion and power shaped ancient Egypt.

Afternoon

Nile Cruise & Lunch Onboard
Board your Nile cruise ship and settle into your guaranteed balcony cabin. Lunch is served onboard as the pace of travel slows to the rhythm of the river.

Evening

Dinner onboard

Optional Evening Activity (Onboard):
Many Nile cruise ships offer light evening entertainment such as traditional music, Nubian performances, or casual social time on deck. Participation is optional and varies by ship.

🚢 Overnight onboard the Nile cruise

Entering the realm of the afterlife

The West Bank of Luxor was dedicated to burial and rebirth, and today offers profound insight into ancient beliefs.

🚌 Guided touring
👕 Attire Tip: Comfortable, modest clothing; good walking shoes for uneven terrain.

Morning

Breakfast onboard

Valley of the Kings
Explore elaborately decorated tombs carved deep into the desert rock, revealing ancient ideas of eternity and the afterlife.

Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Visit the elegant temple honoring one of Egypt’s most powerful female rulers, dramatically set against limestone cliffs.

Colossi of Memnon
Pause at the massive statues that once guarded a royal mortuary complex.

Afternoon

Lunch onboard & Sail South

Evening

Dinner onboard

Optional Evening Activity (Onboard):
Relax on the sun deck under the stars, enjoy conversation with fellow travelers, or take part in informal onboard entertainment.

🚢 Overnight onboard

Temples along the Nile

🚌 Short excursions
👕 Attire Tip: Light clothing; sun protection; comfortable walking shoes.

Morning

Temple of Horus at Edfu
Travel by horse-drawn carriage to one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus.

Afternoon

Lunch onboard

Kom Ombo Temple
Visit the unique double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus, beautifully positioned along a bend in the Nile.

Evening

Dinner onboard

Optional Evening Activity:
Some evenings may include themed dinners or cultural presentations onboard, such as a Galabeya night. Participation is optional and meant to be lighthearted and fun.

🚢 Overnight onboard near Aswan

Grace, water, and Nubian influence

Aswan is known for its slower pace, warm light, and strong cultural identity.

🛥️ Short boat transfer
👕 Attire Tip: Comfortable clothing; non-slip shoes recommended for boat transfers.

Morning

Temple of Philae
Reach this island temple by motorboat and explore a site dedicated to the goddess Isis, relocated stone by stone to preserve its beauty.

Afternoon

Relaxation onboard
Enjoy time on deck watching life along the Nile or resting before the journey’s final stretch.

Evening

Dinner onboard

Optional Evening Experience (Aswan):
Guests may choose to attend a Nubian cultural performance or enjoy an evening sail on the Nile by felucca, depending on availability. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet evening onboard as the river drifts past.

🚢 Overnight onboard

Returning north

✈️ Domestic flight
👕 Attire Tip: Comfortable travel attire; layers recommended.

Morning

Breakfast onboard & Disembarkation

Transfer to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo.

Afternoon

Arrival in Cairo
Transfer to your hotel and enjoy free time to rest or explore.

Optional Experience: Citystars Mall
For those who enjoy a relaxed final evening, consider a visit to Citystars Mall, one of Cairo’s largest and most modern shopping and entertainment complexes.

Browse international and local brands, enjoy a casual dinner, or simply wander with a coffee or dessert. It’s an easy, familiar way to spend your last night in Cairo, whether you’re picking up final souvenirs or easing into departure mode.

Evening

Dinner on your own

Optional Evening Ideas:
Consider a farewell-style dinner, a visit to a jazz club or cultural venue, or a relaxed café evening in a nearby neighborhood. Recommendations can be shared locally.

🏨 Overnight in Upscale Hotel in Heliopolis, Cairo

Egypt’s story through time

🚌 Half-day guided exploration
👕 Attire Tip: Comfortable, modest clothing; walking shoes.

Morning

National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Explore Egypt’s long human story, including the Royal Mummies Hall, offering an intimate look at ancient rulers.

Afternoon (Optional)

Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili
Wander historic neighborhoods, visit ancient churches, and explore one of the Middle East’s most famous bazaars, with time for tea at a traditional café.

Evening

Dinner on your own

Optional Evening Experience:
Spend your final evening browsing local shops, enjoying tea at a historic café, or simply packing and reflecting on the journey.

🏨Overnight in upscale hotel in Helipolis, Cairo

Until next time

🛫 Departure day
👕 Attire Tip: Comfortable travel clothing.

Transfer to Cairo International Airport for your journey home.