In the Wake of Cleopatra

This is a traveler's dream journey: exploring the Nile by private dahabiya, a traditional two-masted Nile sailing yacht that hosts just 10 guests. With our expert Egyptologist, we sail from Luxor to Aswan, discovering stunning pharaonic monuments including Nile-side Kom Ombo, with its crocodile motif, and lesser-known sites like Nekbet, abode of the vulture goddess. We'll bring you to fascinating out-of-the-way places where bigger vessels can't go, including tranquil Nile farming villages. The royal tombs of the New Kingdom pharaohs, awe-inspiring Abu Simbel, and a romantic sailing vessel—they're all on our unique odyssey through ancient Egypt.

Itinerary

Days 1-3
Pyramids of Giza / Sphinx 
In Cairo, we witness the grandeur of the Pyramids, built to stand for eternity by the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. We'll also explore the massive Sphinx, carved from the bedrock of the Giza Plateau, the fascinating Solar Boat Museum next to Khufu's Pyramid, and the incomparable Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, with its treasures of the young King Tutankhamun. 

Days 4-9
Luxor / Karnak / Valley of the Kings / Sailing the Nile / Aswan 
Flying to Luxor, we walk through the forest of stone columns at stupendous Karnak Temple and visit graceful Luxor Temple. In the Valley of the Kings, we explore magnificent tombs including the grand Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, Egypt's only female pharaoh. Embarking aboard the Lazuli III, with its air-conditioned cabins, our five-day sail gives us access to lesser-known sites such as El-Kab, the pre-Dynastic capital of Upper Egypt, as well as famed Nile-side temples including mammoth Edfu, dedicated to the falcon-headed god, Horus. One evening, we enjoy a candlelit barbecue at Maniha Island, and on another, we moor at Cobania Island for a visit with villagers. At Aswan, we visit romantic Philae Temple, a pilgrimage site for thousands of years.

Days 10-11
Abu Simbel 
Fly to Abu Simbel to see the colossal temples of Ramses II, carved into cliff faces in the 12th century BC and still an imposing sight today. Depart on Day 11 via Cairo, or join one of our trip extensions.