Inspiration
Egypt: From Pyramids to the Nile
Step into a world where myth, mystery and majesty meet.
Mystery, majesty and the Nile
This bespoke journey through Egypt takes you from the shadow of the Great Pyramids to the quiet banks of the Nile and the temples carved into desert rock. Along the way, you’ll sail aboard a traditional Dahabiya, explore ancient wonders with expert guides and soak up the timeless beauty of one of the world’s most iconic civilisations.
Blending private access, historical depth and moments of stillness, this is Egypt experienced in its purest form – slow, sensory and unforgettable.
- Giza
- Luxor
- Esna
- Aswan
- Cairo
Dallal BenRomdhane
With a goal to visit every US state and a passion for ancient civilisations, Dallal designs thoughtful, immersive trips that feel personal at every step. Her favourite areas of expertise are North America, North Africa and the Maldives.
Cairo
Begin your adventure in Cairo, where Egypt’s most iconic landmarks rise just beyond the edge of the city. The Great Pyramids and the Sphinx have stood here for thousands of years, still capturing imaginations with their scale and mystery. A private guided tour will bring you up close to these ancient wonders, with time to explore the surrounding plateau and learn about the pharaohs who built them.
You’ll also visit the Egyptian Museum, home to a remarkable collection of artefacts, treasures and royal mummies. There’s plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the slower pace before the journey ahead.
Luxor
Fly south to Luxor, a city where ancient Egypt feels remarkably close. Split by the Nile, Luxor is home to some of the country’s most important temples and tombs – and exploring both riverbanks reveals two very different sides of its story.
Start on the East Bank, where you’ll visit the impressive temples of Karnak and Luxor with a private guide. These vast complexes were once at the heart of religious life in ancient Thebes, and their towering columns and sacred courtyards are still full of atmosphere. The afternoon is yours to relax – perhaps with a quiet moment by the water or a drink as the sun sets over the river.
The next day, cross to the West Bank to explore the resting places of Egypt’s rulers. A full-day tour includes the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, the striking temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the towering Colossi of Memnon.
These sites offer powerful glimpses into the lives, beliefs and legacies of the pharaohs – and your guide will bring their stories to life with insight and context.
Dahabiya Cruise, Esna to Aswan
Step aboard your Dahabiya and begin a leisurely five-night journey along the Nile. Unlike the larger riverboats, this traditional sailing vessel offers a more personal, peaceful way to travel – with no rush, no crowds and uninterrupted views of life unfolding on the riverbanks.
Your first stop is Esna, where you’ll explore the Temple of Khnum and stroll through the local market before setting sail. Each day brings something new: walk through the ruins of El Kab, once the capital of Upper Egypt, and visit the magnificent Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of the best-preserved in the country.
There’s time to swim, relax and enjoy long afternoons under the sun as the Dahabiya glides quietly downstream. At Gebel Silsileh, wander through sandstone quarries and temples tucked between cliffs, then pause for tea in a local café. Evenings are spent dining on deck, under the stars, with nothing but the sound of the water around you.
Your final stop is Kom Ombo, where a double temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus stands on a bend in the river. Visit the small museum housing mummified crocodiles before sailing on to Aswan, where your river journey comes to an end.
Sail the Nile by Traditional Dahabiya
Step aboard a beautifully restored Dahabiya and experience Egypt as it was meant to be seen: slowly, intimately, and with all the magic of the river. Over five unhurried days, you’ll drift past palm-fringed villages, ancient quarries and quiet stretches of desert, stopping to explore temples, ruins and markets that most travellers miss. With just a handful of cabins, your vessel feels more like a private retreat than a cruise. Watch the sunset from the deck, dine beneath the stars, and fall asleep to the gentle rhythm of the water. This is slow travel at its most poetic.
Cairo
After disembarking in Aswan, you’ll fly back to Cairo for your final night in Egypt. There’s time to relax and reflect on the journey, with a short walk to your hotel from the airport on arrival.
Depending on your flight time the next day, you may wish to explore a little more of the capital – perhaps browse for souvenirs at Khan el-Khalili bazaar, admire Islamic architecture in the old city or simply enjoy one last Egyptian coffee before your flight home.
Talk to our specialists to start planning your trip
