+44 (0)20 8741 7390 Journey with us along the mighty River Nile, through lands whose ancestry stretch back to the dawn of antiquity. Travelling in the footsteps of the pharaohs, this remarkable adventure takes you from the Giza Plateau to the shores of Lake Nasser and on into the deserts of ancient Nubia, on an 18 day journey that ends before the merging waters of the Blue and White Niles. Beginning in Cairo you ll discover the last of the seven great wonders of the ancient world, the Great Pyramids of Giza, before following the fertile river as it winds its way through the Nile Valley. Taking in some of the most important and sacred temples in ancient Egypt you ll head south, stopping off to explore the Valley of the Kings and the mighty temple of Karnak as you make your way towards Aswan and the shores of Lake Nasser. Crossing into neighbouring Sudan you then enter the lands of ancient Nubia, home to some of the most remarkable archaeological sites on the African continent. Here, amongst the dunes of the Nubian Desert, you ll come across the haunting pyramids of Meroe, before ending your journey in Khartoum at the meeting of the two Niles. HIGHLIGHTS: Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the ancient stepped pyramid of Saqqara. Explore the beautiful temples of the Nile Valley. Take in the stunning archaeological treasures of Luxor and Aswan. Cross Lake Nasser into ancient Nubia. Gaze upon the haunting remains of Meroe and explore the highlights of Khartoum. TOUR INCLUDES: Entrance fees and permits as per itinerary English speaking local guides 16 nights in three/four star lodges and camps and local guesthouses 16 Breakfasts, 4 lunches, 9 dinners Private guided transfers to and from airports Sleeping bag for overnight in local guesthouse *Please note the prices shown are per person and based on two persons sharing a twin or double room
ITINERARY DAY 1: CAIRO Arrive Cairo, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. DAY 2: CAIRO With your local guide, spend the day exploring the highlights of the Egyptian capital. Beginning with the Great Pyramids of Giza, you'll have a chance to enter one of the tombs and take in the spectacular setting of the Sphinx, before continuing on this afternoon to the Egyptian Museum, home to some of the greatest treasures of antiquity including Tutankhamen's famous golden death mask. (B) DAY 3: CAIRO - SAQQARA - EL FAYOUM This morning you will visit one of the oldest known stone structures on earth, the remarkable stepped pyramid at Saqqara. This extensive complex at Djoser was built at the beginning of the third dynasty (around 2625 BC) and was intended as a funerary complex for King Djoser. Later you will then continue south, following the desert road towards the fertile oasis of El Fayoum. (B) DAY 4: CAIRO - MINYA Today's drive takes you deep into the heart of the Nile Valley, towards the riverside town of Minya on the western banks of the Nile. Close to the town lies the ancient necropolis of Beni Hassan, a collection of 39 rock-cut tombs that can date their origins back to around 1800-2100 BC. Decorated throughout with exceptional artwork, your visit will be followed by a chance to explore the local bazaar and stop to enjoy some refreshments at a local tea shop. (B,D) DAY 5: MINYA - ASSIUT Today provides a chance to visit some of the area's main historical sites including the palm groves of Hermopolis, which shelter the ruins of a 5th century Christian basilica. Moving on from here, you'll then visit the ancient capital of Amarna, built by Akhenaten, one of Egypt's most infamous pharaohs. Spread across an expansive plateau on the eastern side of the river, this once great city was home to temples, palaces and tombs that were abandoned on the death of their creator. (B,D)
DAY 6: ASSIUT - LUXOR A visit to the Temple of Abydos this morning provides a chance to view one of the most sacred settings in ancient Egypt. One of the oldest cities in the country, it was here that the head of the god, Osiris was believed to have been buried. Continuing on to the Ptolemaic temple of Dendera, you'll then end the day amongst the treasures of Luxor, considered by many to be one of the world's greatest open-air museums. (B) DAY 7: LUXOR Departing the hotel early this morning you will travel with your local guide and driver across to the western bank of the Nile, to visit the famous Valley of the Kings, the final resting place for some of Egypt's most renowned pharaohs including Ramses II, Seti I and Tutankhamun himself. You'll also take in the imposing setting of the Temple of Hatshepsut, before returning to Luxor to spend the afternoon visiting the magnificent temple of Karnak and Luxor. (B) DAY 8: LUXOR - ASWAN The drive from Luxor to Aswan today takes you by way of one of the best preserved temples in Egypt. The Temple of Horus at Edfu was built during the Ptolemaic period (237-57 BC), reputably on the site of the final battle between Horus and Seth, and is the second largest temple in Egypt (after Karnak). From here you continue to the impressively sited Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the crocodile god, Sobek, before completing the journey to Aswan. (B) DAY 9: ASWAN After being collected from your hotel by your guide this morning, your tour of the highlights of Aswan begins with a visit to the beautiful temple of Philae, once the centre of the cult of Isis. Wonderfully preserved, this island temple fuses a stunning blend of Egyptian and Graeco-Roman architecture. The afternoon then provides an opportunity to enjoy a cruise down the Nile aboard a traditional felucca sailing boat, paying a visit to the superb gardens on Kitchener's Island. (B) DAY 10: ASWAN - ABU SIMBEL After breakfast this morning you'll leave the city behind and drive into the desert, towards one of the archaeological highlights of your journey. Built by Ramses II, the temple complex at Abu Simbel is one of the wonders of the ancient world. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the Nubian Monuments, it sits on the shores of Lake Nasser and, after settling in to your local guesthouse, there will be an opportunity this afternoon to explore this iconic site with your local guide. (B,D)
DAY 11: ABU SIMBEL - WADI HALFA After an early breakfast you'll drive to the port and board a ferry for the journey across Lake Nasser, where you'll then continue by road to the border at Kustun. After clearing customs and immigration you then continue on to Ashkrai, on the Sudanese border, where your local guide will be waiting to take you on to Wadi Halfa. Strategically located at the end of the railway line from Khartoum, the city served as Kitchener's headquarters during the Mahdi uprising. (B,D) DAY 12: WADI HAIFA - SOLEB - TOMBOS Crossing the Nile by small boat this morning, you'll visit Soleb Temple, built by Amenhotep III during the 18th dynasty. Dedicated to both Amun-Re and Nebma'atre, the Lord of Nubia, its wonderful collection of bas-reliefs and hieroglyphics pay testimony to the importance that the ancient pharaohs once attached to Nubia. Crossing back to the east bank, you then resume your journey south, passing through a fascinating collection of Nubian villages and skirting the foaming waters of the Third Cataract as you head towards Tombos. (B,L,D) DAY 13: KERMA - KARIMA This morning you will drive to the archaeological site at Kerma, home to a predynastic civilisation that went on to become a major trading power in the region. You'll also visit the enigmatic mud-brick monument of Western 'Defuffa', an imposing building whose true purpose still remains an enticing mystery. Driving across the Nubian Desert to Karima later, you end the day in the shadow of Jebel Barkal, Nubia's holy mountain, which once lay at the heart of Nubian religious worship. (B,L,D) DAY 14: KARIMA - MEROE Crossing the river this morning you'll pass through the royal necropolis of Nuri, before negotiating the craggy, black basalt peaks of the Bayuda Desert. The journey south eventually brings you to Meroe, whose famous pyramids provide a haunting contrast against the desert dunes. The cultural centre of the Kushite civilisation, Meroe flourished for a thousand years, before vanishing into the pages of history. Today it presents an incredible collection of pyramids and funerary temples, richly adorned with bas-reliefs depicting the daily life of the royal court. (B,L,D) DAY 15: MEROE - KHARTOUM A morning visit to the royal necropolis with your guide provides a chance today to explore more of this remarkable site. Excavations have confirmed that the ancient city and its environs once covered a vast area, with the royal quarters lying at the heart of this once mighty civilisation. Departing the city later, you'll then drive on to Khartoum, arriving in the Sudanese capital later this evening. (B,L,D)
DAY 16: KHARTOUM Following breakfast this morning you'll enjoy a guided tour through the city, visiting the impressive Archaeological Museum, which today houses two beautiful temples that were rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser by UNESCO. You'll also pay a visit to Omdurman, site of the famous battle that finally saw the British crush the Mahdi uprising, before moving on to view the spot where the White and Blue Niles meet. (B,D) DAY 17: KHARTOUM - CAIRO Transfer to the airport for your onward flight to London, travelling via Cairo. (B)
ACCOMMODATION ASWAN ANAKATO HOTEL Situated on the west bank of the Nile, and guarded by a tree shrouded in legend, the traditional Anakato hotel is a gateway into the land of the Nubians. It consists of three brightly painted Nubian houses, with 5 simple, traditionally and tastefully decorated rooms and a terrace overlooking the Nile. The hotel offers the chance to buy local handicrafts with all proceeds going directly back to the residence of the village. Meals are provided for the guest and these consist of traditionally cooked food prepared from local produce. MOVENPICK ELEPHANTINE ISLAND RESORT A secluded oasis surrounded by exquisite gardens on Elephantine Island and accessible only by private boat, the five star Elephantine Island Resort Aswan was established in 1975 and underwent extensive renovation in 2007 under Movenpick Hotels & Resorts management. The fully-appointed 235 guestrooms feature Nubian-style decor and balconies overlooking the Nile, Aswan city or the desert. Diners can head for the Orangerie restaurant, which serves International and local dishes, while the La Perla serves Traditional Italian dishes in a Mediterraneanstyle setting. The hotel also offers fitness centre, sauna, Turkish steam room, outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts. SOFITEL LEGEND OLD CATARACT ASWAN Built in 1899, the legendary five star Old Cataract is one of the world's most famous hotels, where Agatha Christie wrote "Death On The Nile". Sitting on the terrace opposite Elephantine Island, is like stepping back in time. Taking high tea and watching the sun set with feluccas sailing through the cataract, is a truly magical experience. The hotel has recently been renovated and is beautifully furnished throughout, with select Oriental and Victorian antiques and artefacts. CAIRO
FOUR SEASONS CAIRO, NILE PLAZA The five star Four Seasons raises impressively on the legendary Corniche along the bank of the river. With commanding views of both the Nile and the Citadel, this luxurious hotel unites its timeless, caring, personalised attention with the dynamism and vibrancy of contemporary Cairo. The 365 guest rooms, including 77 suites, are generously sized and elegantly decorated with bright interiors, natural wood finishes and chic, comfortable furnishings with accented millwork. All guest quarters offer panoramic views, whether across the Nile to the island of Zamalek and beyond, or towards the 12th-century Citadel, and they are all luxuriously equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and marble bathrooms. Located on the sixth to eighth floors, standard rooms offer comfort and style with views of the Citadel and the pool, and some feature a private terrace. Recreational facilities encompass a beauty and wellness spa, including sauna, steam room and indoor pool; a health club; and a secluded rooftop swimming pool. A full array of eateries offers a wide variety of culinary choices in distinct atmospheres. KEMPISNKI NILE HOTEL GARDEN CITY Kempinski Nile Hotel is a five star luxury hotel located on the east bank of the Nile River in the historical quarter of Garden City, Cairo. It is only a 45 minute drive from the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx and a short walk from downtown Cairo, the Egyptian Museum and the Cairo Opera House. Travel in style from the airport in the hotels exclusive limousine transfer service. Each of the 191 rooms comes with a 24 hour butler service, free Wi-Fi, an en suite and a flat screen TV. The most iconic feature of the hotel is the rooftop pool with a cocktail bar. The pool is sometimes converted into a dance floor, accompanied by the beautiful night skyline of Cairo. When not relaxing in the Spa and fitness centre, guests can watch the world go by in the Jazz Bar, overlooking the river Nile. There is a fantastic Turkish and Italian restaurant on site, as well as the Chocolate lounge serving pastries, coffee and, of course, a mix of European and Egyptian style chocolate. LE MERIDIEN PYRAMIDS HOTEL & SPA The majestic resort Le Meridien Pyramids is beautifully set within walking distance of the Giza Pyramids, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World, on the west bank of the River Nile and 10 km from Cairo. The superbly appointed rooms are of a generous size, with great bathrooms and have marvellous views of the Pyramids or of the impressive lagoon-style pool and the well-tended subtropical gardens. Five prestigious eateries offer oriental, Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines, and at night a popular Nubian band performs at the Nubian Village restaurant. MENA HOUSE HOTEL The Mena House five star hotel is set in 40 acres of jasmine-scented gardens with the Pyramids towering above. It was originally the hunting lodge of Khedive Ismail, the King of Egypt. Rooms have balconies overlooking the pyramids, some boasting the names of the dignitaries who once stayed here, such as Sir Winston Churchill and General Montgomery.
MOVENPICK PYRAMIDS The five star Movenpick Pyramids Hotel is an ideal place to stay especially for families and is situated in the shadow of the great Pyramids of Giza. Located on the edge of the Sahara and surrounded by beautiful gardens, this resort resembles a desert oasis, cool, tranquil and inviting. All the hotels rooms have private verandas on which to enjoy the magnificent surroundings and views of one of the seven wonders of the world. A large heated pool welcomes swimmers all year round. KARIMA REST HOUSE KARIMA At the foot of the small holy mountain, Jebel Barkal, lies the Boutique Nubian Rest House. Built in the traditional Nubian style, the rest house lies in its own private enclosure with a garden area. The characterful rooms have a rustic feel and are fitted with en suite bathrooms and a private veranda. There is an on-site restaurant and lounge area for guests. KHARTOUM GRAND HOLIDAY VILLA HOTEL The Grand Holiday Villa Hotel is a comfortable three star option in the centre of Khartoum and just a short walk away from the River. The hotel is in need of a refurbishment, however the rooms are spacious and clean with air conditioning, satellite TV, internet and a safety deposit box. There are a few different restaurants and cafés on-site serving a variety of international and Middle Eastern dishes, and also two separate pools (male and female). LUXOR PAVILLON WINTER HOTEL Although more informal than its illustrious neighbour (The Sofitel Winter Palace), the same high standards are provided at the Winter Pavillon with an equally enviable setting in the beautiful gardens of The Winter Palace. Surrounded by tropical gardens and just a short walk from the Luxor Temple, the Temple of Karnak or the Luxor Museum, the Hotel Winter Pavillon comprises 118 rooms, on 5 floors, each equipped with modern facilities and private balconies. The hotel has a good restaurant and other facilities are shared with its sister hotel, including a wide selection of restaurants and bars offering both international and regional cuisine and an outdoor unheated pool. SOFITEL WINTER PALACE A nineteenth Century hotel lying on the banks of the Nile offering a high level of comfort and service. All 86 rooms are decorated in a colonial style with some overlooking the river. There is a variety of restaurants and bars and also a swimming pool. MEROE
FIXED TENTED CAMP This permanent tented camp lies just a stone s throw away from the Meroe pyramids with great views of this ancient wonder. There are 22 comfortable tents that have been fitted with twin beds and basic furniture, and each one has its own private bathroom hut with a shower and toilet. A generator is the only electricity supply, and means that guests are able to charge cameras and batteries in the evenings. Meals are served in the camp restaurant, and the rooftop terrace makes for a nice place to watch the sunset. The camp is in the process of building a new restaurant which should be completed and open to guests by the end of the 2015 season. Wild Frontiers Adventure Travel Ltd Tel +44 (0)20 8741 7390 Email info@wildfrontierstravel.com Website wildfrontierstravel.com