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Egyptian Discovery
Operated by Bunnik Tours
Tripcode: 829
Overview
Destination:
Egypt,
Start:Cairo, Egypt
Finish:Cairo, Egypt
Finish:Cairo, Egypt
Duration:16 days
Type:Group tour (max 20)
Travel Period
May 2025 - May 2025
Immerse yourself in a time of great wealth and power, of magnificent temples, elaborate ceremonies and incredible pyramids. Delve into the local lifestyle, culture and customs, cruise the Nile and descend into ancient tombs. Discover the contrasts and history of the country’s north and explore bustling Cairo.
Standard inclusions
Sightseeing
Unlock the mysteries of Egypt's ancient civilization
- Discover the Great Pyramids of Giza and the famous Sphinx
- Enjoy lunch with a view at the 9 Pyramids Lounge
- Explore the world-renowned Grand Egyptian Museum
- Visit the Egyptian Museum (to see the Tutankhamun collection)
- Visit the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara and the Red and Bent Pyramids at Dahshur
- Be fascinated by Alexandria, the 'Pearl of the Mediterranean’
- Visit Alexandria’s Graeco Roman Museum, Pompey's Pillar, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, New Bibliotheca, and see the Citadel of Qaitbey
- Pay homage at the Battlefield Cemetery and Military Museum of El Alamein
- Visit the beautiful Luxor and Karnak Temples
- Half day tour of Dendera Temple complex
- 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
- Unwind on a four-night luxury cruise on the Nile from Luxor to Aswan
- Travel to the magnificent Temple of Horus (the Falcon God) in Edfu
- Visit the Temple of Kom Ombo
- Enjoy a Galabeya party whilst cruising the Nile
- Visit the temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari at Abu Simbel
- Relax on a traditional felucca sailboat in Aswan
- Explore Aswan including the High Dam and the beautiful Philae Temple on Agilkia Island
- Uncover the fascinating Nubian Museum
- Navigate the waterways of the Nile, to a Nubian village, visiting the local market and a Nubian family in their home
- Visit the Mohammed Ali Mosque, the Saladin Citadel of Cairo and the centuries-old Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Travel
- Return economy-class flights from Australia to Egypt. Taxes included
- 2 economy-class flights within Egypt
- Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
- All touring in air-conditioned vehicles
- 4-night Nile River cruise
Accommodation
- 9 nights in 4-5 star hotels
- 4 nights in an outside cabin on board a 5 star (Egyptian standard) luxury Nile River cruise
Properties include:
- Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino, Cairo
- Four Seasons Alexandria at San Stefano, Alexandria
- Le Meridien Cairo Airport, Cairo
- Steigenberger Nile Palace, Luxor
- Movenpick Royal Lily, Nile Cruise
- Movenpick Resort, Aswan
- Fairmont Nile City, Cairo
Hotels & Cruise ship listed are an indication and are subject to change without notice.
Meals
- 13 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners, including group welcome and farewell dinners
Tour Guides
- English-speaking, university-qualified Egyptologist guides
Porterage
- Porterage included where available
Some things to note
Please note:
- Ramadan is observed from28 February to 29 March 2025.
- The Grand Egyptian Museum partially opened in October 2024. Your visit will include main galleries currently available to the public. We will also continue to visit the Egyptian Museum, where Tutankhamun’s collection still is displayed, until the GEM’s official opening date. This date will be announced by the Government of Egypt in the near future.
- 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. Each cruise itinerary will, however, have an element of day-time cruising allowing us to relax and see life along the river.
- Women will need a head scarf to enter some mosques and temples, and wear modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders. Also, it’s a good idea to pack a spare pair of socks in your daypack, as sometimes shoes need to be removed when entering and the ground can be hot. There can be a lack of shade when visiting sights and attractions, so a sturdy hat and sun protection is also an absolute must.
- 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.
Optional excursions:
- Timing & practicability of optional excursions are subject to several external factors, such as internal flight timings, weather & traffic conditions. For optional excursions from Cairo, pre &/or post-tour accommodation is recommended to allow sufficient time. Further optional excursions not listed may be offered by your guide throughout the tour.
- All optional tours are based on a minimum of 2 participants (unless otherwise stated) and are subject to availability. The length of tours advised is an approximate only. Tours 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 tours 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.
Itinerary
Expand all 
Collapse all
Collapse allDay 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.
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 starting destination by 6.00pm.
We’ll enjoy some free time to freshen up, before meeting our fellow travellers at a group welcome dinner this evening.
Day 3 - Cairo – Giza – Cairo
We’re set for a magical day of touring, visiting some of the sites that frequently top traveller’s bucket lists. We begin our Egyptian touring at the oldest structures in existence and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the amazing Great Pyramids of Giza. Serving as the tomb of the pharaoh Khufu, the largest pyramid was originally 481 feet high and has managed to stay largely intact since its construction in 2600 BC. The two slightly smaller pyramids were built for Khufu’s son, Khafre, and grandson, Menkaure, likewise as burial places for three generations of Egyptian kings.
We’ll then 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. This iconic statue is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre and is thought to represent him, yet its construction and purpose remains a fascinating mystery.
Special Experience
Take in the incredible views of the Great Pyramids of Giza while enjoying a delicious lunch at the 9 Pyramids Lounge
At the 9 Pyramids Lounge, we’re treated to delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, but the best bit? The view! This unique restaurant is unlike anything you’ve been to before. Offering panoramic views of the majestic pyramids surrounded by desert, the pictures you’ll take here are guaranteed to be incredible.
This afternoon, we visit the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza, located a short distance from the pyramids themselves. One of the largest, most modern and renowned museums in the entire world, the GEM is home to over 100,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts. We’re greeted by a 3,200 year old and 83-ton statue of Ramses II in the GEM’s main entrance, so you know we’re in for a real treat exploring this fascinating place!
Please note: The Grand Egyptian Museum partially opened in October 2024. Your visit will include main galleries currently available to the public. We will also continue to visit the Egyptian Museum, where Tutankhamun’s collection still is displayed, until the GEM’s official opening date. This date will be announced by the Government of Egypt in the near future.
Day 4 - Cairo - Alexandria
After breakfast we will travel to the city of Alexandria on Egypt’s north coast. The port city located on the Mediterranean Sea was founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great. Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt and is best known for the Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos) one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
We will take a half day tour around Alexandria and visit the Graeco Roman Museum, home to an array of artifacts from the Greco-Roman era that provide a fascinating glimpse into the civilisation of ancient Egypt. Other highlights include Pompey’s Pillar, the Catacombs, and the New Bibliotheca. Our last stop is for a photo at the Citadel of Qaitbay, a spectacular 15th century fortress overlooking the Mediterranean.
Day 5 - Alexandria - El Alamein - Cairo
Our journey takes us westward through the dunes along the Mediterranean coast, following the route of Field Marshal Montgomery to El Alamein. The coastal town was the site of two major battles between British and Axis forces during World War II.
Special Experience
Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery and Military Museum associated with the Battle of El Alamein.
The cemetery encompasses 7,367 tombs of war victims from Britain, New Zealand, Australia, France, India and Malta. We’ll also stop to visit the El Alamein Military Museum including five main halls (representing the countries that participated in the battle) and view the unique paintings of the war scenes.
We’ll then return to Cairo and the evening is for you to explore at your leisure.
Day 6 - Cairo - Luxor
This morning we will fly to Luxor in Upper Egypt. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the city surrounds two huge, surviving ancient monuments. Upon arrival we’ll meet our guide and transfer to the hotel before some sightseeing.
Our touring begins at the fascinating Karnak Temple, dedicated to the Pharaoh Amun. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to the temple’s structure over time, which explains its monumental size! We’ll then visit Luxor Temple, once connected to Karnak Temple by a 3-kilometre-long Avenue of Sphinxes. Luxor Temple is also 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 also visit a local gallery to appreciate the ancient artform of papyrus craft, with an opportunity to purchase the artwork to take home.
Day 7 - Luxor
Special Experience
Take a half-day tour to Dendera Temple complex and see one of the best-preserved temples and most important sites of ancient Egypt, the Temple of Hathor (the goddess of pleasure and love).
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to relax or explore at your own pace.
Optional Excursion
Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 8 - Luxor - Nile Cruise
This morning we discover the sights of Luxor on a half day tour. Our first destination is the spectacular Valley of the Kings. Serving as a royal burial chamber for around 500 years, it is home to legendary kings and queens, their families, and their possessions for the afterlife. Here we’ll explore tombs carved deep into the limestone rock, where each tomb has a similar pattern of three corridors, an antechamber and a sarcophagus chamber.
Special Experience
Descend underground into Tutankhamun’s Tomb, adorned with intricate corridors, ancient artefacts, and well-preserved hieroglyphic paintings.
Our next destination is the Temple of Hatshepsut. Queen Hatshepsut was one of only a few women to be given the title of pharaoh. We’ll then visit the Colossi of Memnon, a historic landmark consisting of two massive statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. We then 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.
This afternoon we embark on our Nile River cruise ship. Lunch is served on board and the rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy at leisure.
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.
Optional Excursion
Deir El Medina & Medinet Habu – Visit one of the most well-preserved ancient settlements in Egypt and the Mortuary Temple of Ramses ll. 3 hours – minimum 4 participants required – from $105pp US, including Nobles Tombs; from $160pp US, including Nefertari’s Tomb (subject to open times). Cash Only
Day 9 - Nile Cruise
Today will be spent cruising along the Nile as we set sail for Edfu, crossing the lock at Esna and continuing south. So, kick back and relax as you take in the serene views of the passing Nile River.
Day 10 - 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 11 - Nile Cruise
An early start this morning as we cross the desert to Abu Simbel. Our destination is 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.
This afternoon we’ll relax on board a traditional felucca sailboat, cruising along the Nile and observing life along the banks of the river as our boat takes advantage of the gentle winds and currents.
Optional Excursion
Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Day 12 - Nile Cruise - Aswan
Today, 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 and the picturesque Philae Temple on Agilkia Island
Special Experience
Uncover the fascinating Nubian Museum, before navigating the waterways of the Nile to a Nubian village, visiting the local market and a Nubian family in their home.
We’ll return to our hotel where the evening is at leisure.
Day 13 - Aswan - Cairo
We’ll transfer to Aswan airport today, for our flight back to Cairo.
On arrival, we’ll begin with a visit to the 12th century Saladin Citadel of Cairo, serving throughout history as both a royal residence and military barracks, and the Mohammed Ali Mosque, one of the most prominent Ottoman-style landmarks in Cairo. We’ll then drive to the 14th century Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a famous bazaar and souq in the historic centre of Cairo. Here, you can shop for authentic souvenirs and delicious spices, as well as just soaking up the local bustling atmosphere.
We’ll stop at a local jewellery shop that specialises in customised gold and silver cartouches, before visiting a weaving workshop to learn about locally made Egyptian carpet
Day 14 - Cairo
Our day begins by discovering the incredible Step Pyramid of Sakkara, believed to have been designed by the famous vizier of King Zoser, Imhotep before continuing to the Pyramids of Dahshur. This site was used as funerary grounds beginning in the time of the Fourth Dynasty, where King Senefru built two of his three pyramids: the 'Bent' pyramid, named for the angle of the sides, & the 'Red Pyramid' named for the red limestone used in its construction.
Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group farewell dinner.
Day 15 - Depart Cairo
Today marks the completion of our incredible adventure across Egypt. Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to Egypt and begin our journey home. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Please note, in order to undertake the following optional tours additional post tour accommodation in Cairo may be required. Please check with your Travel Specialist for details.
Optional Excursion
Coptic Cairo - Discover the ancient sites & culture of Coptic Christians throughout Old Cairo. 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.
Optional Excursion
National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation – Displaying the civilisation of Egypt from the prehistoric period to the present era. 3 hours – from $80pp US. Cash only.
Day 16 - Arrive Australia
Day 16 - Arrive Australia
Departure dates
Select your preferred date or enquire
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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