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Egypt, Kenya & Zanzibar

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Operated by Bunnik Tours
Tripcode: 704
Overview
Destination:
Egypt
Kenya
Tanzania
Start:Cairo, Egypt
Finish:Kiwengwa, Tanzania
Duration:23 days
Type:Group tour (max 12)
Style:
Small group,
This product has sold out, you can still contact us for other options.
The best of Africa awaits you on this one-of-a-kind tour, venturing through three unique countries. Immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Egypt, spot endless wildlife in Kenya and relax on the beaches of Zanzibar. This is the ultimate opportunity to experience the rich history of the Middle East and uncover the jewels of Africa.
Standard inclusions
  • Sightseeing

    Unlock the Mysteries of Egypt's Ancient Civilisation

    • Explore Cairo including the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
    • Enjoy lunch with a view at the 9 Pyramids Lounge
    • Visit Memphis and the unique Step Pyramid of Sakkara
    • Tour the Serapeum of Sakkara
    • Spend 4 nights on board a luxury cruise ship and sail down the Nile River
    • Discover the temples of Karnak and Luxor
    • Explore the West Bank, including the Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Kings (where we enter some of the tombs of the pharaohs) and the  massive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
    • Entry into Tutankhamun’s Tomb
    • Visit the Temple of Horus (the Falcon God) in Edfu and the Temple of Kom Ombo
    • Enjoy a galabeya party onboard the Nile cruise
    • Visit the temples of Ramses ll and Queen Nefertari at Abu Simbel
    • Explore Aswan including the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk and the Temple of Isis on Agilkia Island
    • Travel to a Nubian village for lunch with a Nubian family
    • Spend an afternoon on a traditional felucca sail boat
    • Take a local Middle Eastern cooking class
    • Visit the Mohammed Ali Mosque, Saladin Citadel of Cairo, the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar and The Egyptian Museum

    Witness Kenya’s Amazing Wildlife and Spectacular Scenery

    • Visit the Giraffe Centre
    • Tour the Karen Blixen Museum
    • Visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
    • Tour the Anselm Kitengela Hot Glass Studio and enjoy a glassblowing demonstration
    • Visit Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers, a women's self-help project
    • Visit a Samburu Village for protected Samburu women and their children
    • Explore Shaba National Reserve on game drives
    • Visit freshwater Lake Naivasha
    • Cruise Lake Naivasha on a boat safari
    • Enjoy afternoon tea at Elsamere in Lake Naivasha
    • Spend 2 nights in a luxury tent in the heart of the Maasai Mara
    • Enjoy a Swahili cooking class at the Sarova Mara Game Camp
    • Experience game drives in the Maasai Mara
    • Enjoy a bush dinner under the Maasai Mara stars

    Relax on the exotic spice island of Zanzibar

    • Explore Stone Town and visit the Sultan’s Palace, the Old Museum, and the Old Market
    • Spend 2 days on beaches of Zanzibar

    Travel

    • Return economy-class flights from Australia to Africa. Taxes included
    • 4 economy-class flights within Africa
    • 1 light plane flight within Kenya
    • Nile River cruise
    • Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
    • All touring in air-conditioned vehicles (excluding shared lodge safari 4WD)

    Accommodation

    • 7 nights in 4 star hotels
    • 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a 5 star (Egyptian standard) luxury Nile River cruise
    • 4 nights in 4 star African lodges
    • 2 nights in a luxury tent in the heart of the Maasai Mara
    • 2 nights at a Zanzibar beach resort

    Properties include:

    • Cairo Marriott Hotel, Cairo
    • Mövenpick MS Royal Lily, Nile Cruise
    • Mövenpick Resort, Aswan
    • Tamarind Tree Hotel, Nairobi
    • Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, Shaba National Reserve
    • The Ark Lodge, Aberdare National Park
    • Lake Naivasha Simba  Lodge, Lake Naivasha
    • Sarova Mara Game Camp, Maasai Mara
    • Tembo House Hotel & Apartments, Stone Town
    • Bluebay Beach Resort & Spa, Kiwengwa Beach

     Hotels listed are an indication, and are subject to change without notice.

    Meals

    • 20 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 17 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners

    Tour Guides

    • English-speaking, university-qualified Egyptologist guides
    • English-speaking locally based driver/guide in Kenya
    • English-speaking locally based guide in Zanzibar

    Porterage

    • Porterage included where available

    Entrance Fees

    • Entrance fees to all national parks and reserves

    Some things to note

    Luggage Information

    Africa Luggage

    • Due to the limited storage space in light aircraft and safari vehicles in Africa, please note the following luggage restrictions for this tour.
      • Hand Luggage: 1 soft-sided bag per person
      • Checked Luggage: 1 soft-sided bag per person, maximum of 15 kg

    If you have any other questions about luggage requirements, please feel free to call one of our Travel Specialists on 1800 286 645 or email us.

     

    Egypt

    • Ramadan is observed from 9 March to 8 April 2024.
    • The luxury Nile cruise is not a private charter, and is shared with non-Bunnik passengers. Due to the limited space for docking along the Nile, ships bank together when stopped. Therefore in some cases, you may need to walk through as many as six ships to enter and exit our cruise ship. The Nile Cruises featured on all tourist itineraries to Egypt operate between the cities of Luxor and Aswan. These cities lie only 240 kilometres apart which means this distance could easily be covered in only 1 or 2 days without stops. However, due to logistical and scheduling reasons the cruises are offered only as 3, 4 and 7 night packages. This allows for extensive sightseeing along the way and, as such, much of the time is spent in port in Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo or Aswan. Each cruise itinerary will however, have an element of day-time cruising allowing us to relax and see life along the river.
    • Please note that due to the high volume of river traffic all cruise itineraries are subject to change without notice. The order and timing of sightseeing may therefore change however all inclusions will remain the same.
    • Travel through the Esna Lock is subject to river traffic and local conditions which means we may pass through the lock during the night or have an extended wait prior to entering the lock.
    • Due to local laws and regulations, the only mode of transport available to visit the Temple of Horus in Edfu is by horse and carriage. You are welcome to explore Edfu independently or stay on board the cruise to enjoy the ship’s facilities if you would prefer

    Kenya and Tanzania

    • Both Tanzania and Kenya have enforced a total ban on single-use plastic bags. This includes garbage bags, carrier bags, shopping bags, and zip-lock bags that a lot of airlines require passengers to place their liquids within. Please ensure that before you either board a flight to Kenya and/or Tanzania, or arrive at a border entry point, that you have disposed of any plastic bags that may be within your checked or hand luggage. Failure to do so may result in a penalty.
    • Whilst on safari, ensure you wear layers, it can be quite cool in the early hours but can warm up as the sun rises.
    • Today you will need to pack an overnight bag for your stay at The Ark Lodge. Your main luggage will remain at the Aberdare Country Club until the following morning.
    • Hot air balloon safaris will be done in lieu of the early morning game drive that is scheduled.
    • The bush dinner experience may be undertaken at breakfast, lunch or dinner and is dependent on the weather forecast for the day. The final decision will be made by your guide and the lodge locally. Regardless, all meal inclusions will remain the same.
    • You will be required to pay a local Zanzibar tourist tax direct to your hotels. This tax is approximately US $2 per person per night.

    Optional Excursions

    • All optional excursions are based on minimum participants and are subject to availability. The length of optional excursions advised is an approximate only. Optional excursions can be booked on tour directly with your Tour Director or guide. We recommend arranging the booking at the beginning of the tour to avoid disappointment. Please note some optional excursions may also be available on multiple or alternate days. Prices are a guide only and are subject to change without prior notice. Payment by cash is preferred as there are no guarantees that credit card facilities will be available. Please check with your Tour Director or guide locally for information relating to this. Credit card fees and exchange rates are at the discretion of your bank.

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Itinerary
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Day 1 - Depart Australia
Day 1 - Depart Australia
Day 2 - Arrive Cairo
Welcome to Egypt, a country known for its historical sites and world wonders. We begin in Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt and the largest city in Africa. Home to many famous Egyptian landmarks, visitors will find it to be a fascinating and often bewildering mixture of old and new. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 6.00pm Meet your fellow travellers tonight as we enjoy a group welcome dinner. Optional Excursion The Pyramids of Dahshur - Dahshur forms the southernmost area of the Memphis Necropolis & contains a number of pyramid complexes & monuments 3 hours – from $65pp US (cash only). Optional Excursion Islamic Cairo - Visit the Gayer Anderson Museum, Ibn Toulon Mosque & El Sultan Hassan Mosque. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 3 - Cairo - Giza - Cairo
Our touring in Egypt begins at the oldest structures in existence and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the amazing Great Pyramids of Giza. We'll visit the nearby Great Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a king, often referred to as the national symbol of Egypt. Our tour will also take us to visit a weaving workshop, with an opportunity to purchase a locally made Egyptian carpet. Special Experience Take in the incredible views of the Great Pyramids of Giza while enjoying a delicious lunch at the 9 Pyramids Lounge We'll also discover the ancient capital of Memphis and the Step Pyramid of Sakkara, believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep. Special Experience Tour the historic Serapeum of Sakkara, the burial place of the Apis Bulls Optional Excursion Coptic Cairo - Discover the ancient sites & culture of Coptic Christians throughout Old Cairo. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 4 - Cairo – Luxor – Embark: Nile Cruise
Early this morning we farewell Cairo as we transfer to the airport for our flight to Luxor. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the city surrounds two huge, surviving ancient monuments. Today we embark the Nile cruise ship and enjoy lunch on board before some sightseeing, beginning at the ancient Avenue of Sphinxes. The 3-kilometre-long road connects the fascinating Karnak Temple, dedicated to the Pharaoh Amun and Luxor Temple. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to Karnak Temple’s structure over time, which explains its monumental size! Luxor Temple is home to a 25-metre-tall pink granite obelisk, which was part of a matching pair until the 1830s when one was given to France. It now stands in the centre of the Place de la Concorde in Paris. We’ll visit a local gallery to appreciate the ancient artform of papyrus craft, with an opportunity to purchase the artwork to take home. Optional Excursion Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 5 - Nile Cruise
On a half day tour of West Bank, our first destination is the Valley of the Kings, where we can discover Tutankhamun’s Tomb. Carved deep into the limestone rock, each tomb has a similar pattern of three corridors, an antechamber and a sarcophagus chamber. We’ll be able to descend into the tomb to see examples of the elaborate and well-preserved hieroglyphic paintings. Next, we explore the Temple of Hatshepsut. Built for Queen Hatshepsut, she was one of only a few women to be given the title of pharaoh. We then visit the Colossi of Memnon, a historic landmark consisting of two massive statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. We’ll stop at a nearby alabaster workshop to learn how the locally quarried stone is carved and crafted and can purchase a souvenir piece to take home if so inclined. We then cruise onward to Edfu, travelling through Esna Lock. The afternoon is at leisure before a welcome dinner on board. Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride over the West Bank in the early morning. Includes transport from hotel. 1.5 hours – from $170pp US. Cash only. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 6 - Nile Cruise
Located on the west bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan you will find Edfu. The Egyptian city has a population of approximately sixty thousand people. It is famous for the Temple of Horus, dedicated to the Falcon God, the main attraction which we'll visit this morning. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak Temple. We'll then cruise to the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris, before continuing to Aswan this evening. Tonight, we enjoy a traditional Galabeya party on board.
Day 7 - Nile Cruise
An early start this morning as we cross the desert to the incredible UNESCO listed twin temples of Abu Simbel. The temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. We will spend a few hours exploring the temples before returning to our Nile cruise ship in Aswan. We'll enjoy lunch on board and the afternoon is at your leisure before a Nubian Show this evening.
Day 8 - Disembark: Nile Cruise – Aswan
This morning we disembark the Nile cruise ship and bid farewell to the crew. Today will be spent exploring the incredible sights of Aswan. On a half day tour, we visit the High Dam, the picturesque Philae Temple on Agilkia Island and the Unfinished Obelisk. We'll also visit a local store which produces an assortment of aromatic perfumes and oils, along with ornate accessories, all available for purchase. Special Experience Uncover the fascinating Nubian Museum, before navigating the waterways of the Nile to a Nubian village, enjoy lunch, then visit the local market and a Nubian family in their home. We'll return to our hotel by felucca where the evening is at leisure. Optional Excursion Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 9 - Aswan - Cairo
We’ll transfer to Aswan airport today for our flight back to Cairo. Special Experience Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Middle Eastern cuisine as we take a local cooking class and enjoy our delicious creations for dinner.
Day 10 - Cairo - Nairobi
This morning we will explore more of Cairo with a visit to the world-famous Egyptian Museum, the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East. The museum displays an extensive collection spanning from the Predynastic Period to the Greco-Roman Era. We’ll then visit the 12th century Saladin Citadel of Cairo and the Mohammed Ali Mosque. Our last stop is the 14th century Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a major souk in Cairo’s Islamic District. Famous for its handmade crafts, it’s also the perfect place to enjoy a traditional Arabic coffee. There are no fixed prices here, so make sure you practice your haggling skills! We’ll also visit a jewellery shop, that specialises in customised gold and silver cartouches, which will be available for purchase. We farewell Egypt tonight as we fly to Nairobi.
Day 11 - Nairobi
Nairobi is the largest city between Cairo and Johannesburg. Although it is just south of the equator, it sports beautiful spring-like weather year round – warm during the day and cool at night. It is a modern city, yet its main avenues blaze with colour from tropical bushes and vines. Less than 100 years ago, there was a river in an empty wilderness where Nairobi now stands. Despite health hazards and the ever-present danger of wild animals, Nairobi was established by 1907 and quickly grew. It also attracted world attention as the centre of big-game safaris for the rich and famous - perhaps the most famous was the safari of Teddy Roosevelt, who needed 500 porters to carry supplies. This afternoon we visit the AFEW Giraffe Centre, an important conservation initiative created by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife. Here we can get up close whilst feeding the giraffes from an elevated platform. After lunch we’ll enjoy a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum - the former residence of famous novelist Karen Blixen. The house contains many of her original pieces along with some exhibits donated by the makers of the film, ‘Out of Africa’.
Day 12 - Nairobi
Today we visit one of Kenya’s great conservation projects, Daphne Sheldrick’s animal orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. For over 25 years, Kenyan-born Daphne Sheldrick lived and worked alongside her husband David, during which time they raised and successfully rehabilitated many wild species. Daphne Sheldrick’s involvement with wildlife has spanned a lifetime. She is now a recognised international authority on the rearing of wild creatures and is the first person to have perfected the milk formula and necessary husbandry for infant milk-dependent elephants and rhinos. Later we visit the Anselm Kitengela Hot Glass Studio and enjoy a glassblowing demonstration. Here we will see how expert Kenyan artisans create functional handmade objects from recycled glass and learn about the unique art of glassblowing.
Day 13 - Nairobi - Aberdare National Park
This morning we make our way to Aberdare National Park, a protected area in Kenya’s central highlands. Known for its stunning high moorland, bamboo forests and thundering waterfalls, it is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, leopards and several primate species. On the way we’ll stop at the Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers, a women's self-help group that produces beautiful, handcrafted items. We’ll learn about the traditional techniques used to make these items and will have the chance to purchase unique souvenirs to take home. After lunch at the Aberdare Country Club, we are transferred to our quirky ‘Ark’ accommodation. Here, we’ll enjoy the afternoon at leisure to gaze out over the floodlit waterhole, watching the wildlife bask in this beautiful setting.
Day 14 - Aberdare National Park – Shaba National Reserve
Shaba National Reserve is our destination today, located by the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River in the northern part of Kenya. The river attracts a lot of wildlife thanks to its shady trees, so the likelihood of seeing a diverse range of wildlife here is even higher. An afternoon game drive will introduce us to some of the unique animals in this area, including the reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra and the Somali ostrich
Day 15 - Shaba National Reserve
We have an early start for our morning game drive across Shaba’s beautiful, rugged landscape. We’ll search for lions, buffalo, leopards and the famous 'red elephant of Samburu' - named for the red dust that coats their hides. We return to our lodge for breakfast and some downtime before taking another game drive this afternoon. After our afternoon game drive, we’ll also visit a local community. Special Experience Visit the Samburu Women’s UNITY Village, a refuge for women looking to start independent lives with their children, learning about a day in their lives. The Samburu are semi-nomadic pastoralists and are extremely reliant on animals such as cattle, sheep, goats and camels for their way of life.
Day 16 - Shaba National Reserve – Lake Naivasha
Today we continue to Lake Naivasha, which is the highest and one of the most beautiful lakes that form part of the Great Rift Valley. Taking its name from the Maasai word En-aiposha, meaning ‘heaving’ or ‘to and fro’, the water is well-known to be turbulent in the afternoons. A popular spot for British flying boats of the 1930s, it was also the home of Joy Adamson, conservationist and the author of ‘Born Free’. After lunch we’ll experience a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, in search of its residents which include over 400 bird species and numerous pods of hippo. We’ll enjoy afternoon tea at the famous Elsamere Conservation Centre, located in Joy’s former house. The museum contains a collection of her paintings and artefacts as well as memorabilia from the ‘Born Free' film, with photos documenting Joy and George Adamson's work. We then return to our lodge for dinner.
Day 17 - Lake Naivasha – Maasai Mara
After an early breakfast, we depart for the Maasai Mara, one of the world's finest game reserves. The landscape of the Maasai Mara is characterised by wide open plains and rolling grasslands, dotted with the occasional tree. The Maasai Mara flows into the Serengeti, making it one of the biggest reserves in the world. Special Experience Enjoy a Swahili cooking class at Sarova Mara Game Camp, first exploring the in-house herb and vegetable garden. We’ll then head out on a late afternoon game drive. Elephant, giraffe, eland, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle are plentiful here and commonly sighted. With a bit of luck, we may also spot a lion or cheetah.
Day 18 - Maasai Mara
We have an early start for a morning game drive to enjoy this beautiful landscape as the sun rises over the savannah. We’ll return to the lodge for breakfast and lunch, with some time to relax. Later we’ll head out on one last safari before a special farewell bush dinner. Optional Excursion Maasai Mara Balloon Safari – This morning, enjoy an amazing experience as you take a balloon ride over the Maasai Mara. This is probably one of the most scenic views you will ever experience as you depart at dawn and float, suspended in a basket beneath a canopy while viewing the sights of the mighty Maasai Mara and its wildlife. On landing, you’ll be provided with a delicious bubbly-style bush breakfast. 3 hours – from US $450pp.
Day 19 - Maasai Mara – Zanzibar
After breakfast we transfer to the airport to fly to the exotic island of Zanzibar. Upon arrival, we transfer to Stone Town, the old city and cultural heart of the island. Well known for its white sandy beaches and warm turquoise water, Zanzibar is the perfect place to relax and simply soak up the sun. Scenic fishing villages are scattered throughout the beaches of Zanzibar where the locals enjoy a simple way of life.
Day 20 - Zanzibar
Our eyes are set on historic Stone Town, as we begin our exploration this morning. A city tour will acquaint us with a range of different sites, including the City Market, the Anglican Church of Christ, Africa House and Forodhani Park. We’ll also visit the House of Wonders - the most significant structure on the seafront that was built in the 1880s as a ceremonial palace. Originally used as the headquarters and administrative centre during the colonial period, it was later converted into a school and a museum. Lastly, we will explore the Sultan's Palace, the old museum and the old market where we can shop for various local fruits and spices. Afterwards we’ll travel to our beautiful beachside resort, where we will spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 21 - Zanzibar
The day is at leisure for you to relax and unwind in this tranquil setting or to explore more of this stunning island paradise. The choice is yours! This evening we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 22 - Depart Zanzibar
Today marks the end of our spectacular African adventure. We will enjoy our last day at leisure in paradise before transferring to the airport this evening. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 23 - Arrive Australia
Day 23 - Arrive Australia
Operator
Bunnik Tours

With over 25 years experience and a multitude of industry awards, Bunnik Tours' overarching aim remains simple: to provide a better way for travellers to see the world. We do this by creating a series of unique holiday experiences: - Small group tours of no more than 20 passengers, specifically designed to capture the essence of the places we visit. Tours that provide the perfect balance between organised sightseeing and free time for independent discovery. Holidays that visit the famous attractions but also wander off the usual tourist trail. Complete and stress-free tour packages with accommodation, guides, tipping, and meals included (and much more!). Independent travel packages are a flexible way to visit one or more destinations. They can also be added onto our small group tours for a unique experience! A strong belief in responsible travel and sustainable tourism. We have always been a family of travellers at heart, exploring the world around us with equal parts wonder, good humour and curiosity. As a family business we understand that our family's name and reputation is at stake every time we sell a holiday. We take your trust very seriously and look forward to the day when we can help you explore the world. Dennis Bunnik is the chair of the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) and we are actively involved in helping to improve the overall professionalism of the travel industry. Discover our passion for this incredible planet and its inhabitants, and experience your tour the ‘Bunnik Way’! - Dennis, Marion & Sacha Bunnik

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