Private Egyptologist Tour: Carnarvon's Egypt

Meet your private Egyptologist guide for the next nine days and set off on a full-day tour of the mighty pyramid complexes outside Cairo. The Stepped Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara will be your first stop. Comprised of six massive steps, it once rose to a height of 62 metres. Nearby, at Dashur are the distinctive ‘Bent’ and the ‘Red’ pyramids. The latter structure is believed to have been the first successful attempt at constructing a ‘true’ smooth-sided pyramid. In the afternoon, tour the pyramid complex at Giza. Visit the Museum of the Solar Boat, and see the enigmatic Sphinx – said to portray the image of the 4th dynasty Pharaoh Kafre.

The priceless treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) will be revealed today on a full day dedicated to its amazing collections. Gaze on the Narmer Palette, recording the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt; come face to face with the mummies of the New Kingdom in the Royal Mummy room; admire the striking black diorite statue of Kafre – builder of the second pyramid at Giza; behold the famous Fayyum portraits – lifelike faces staring at us from the late Pharaonic period; and stand awestruck in front of the glittering funerary goods of Tutankhamun.

Fly south to Luxor this morning. On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel overlooking the River Nile. The afternoon will be at leisure to relax and enjoy the views. This evening, visit the mighty Temples of Amon-Ra at Karnak and see the sound and light show.

Drive north to Abydos, one of ancient Egypt’s most important burial sites. Abydos is associated with the legend of Osiris, and from the Middle Kingdom onwards, every Pharaoh left a mark of his presence here. But, it is the beautiful tribute to Osiris left by the New Kingdom ruler Seti I that steals the show today. The superbly preserved Temple of Hathor – ‘The Golden One’ – at Dendera will be visited before returning to Luxor.

Today is dedicated to exploring Luxor’s necropolis on the West Bank of the Nile. Descend into the amazing painted tombs in the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens; climb up the terraces of the rock-cut mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut; gain an insight into the way of life of the ancient Egyptians when viewing the tombs of the workers at Deir El Medina; then conclude your sightseeing with a photo-stop at the Colossi of Menon and tour of the well preserved mortuary Temple of Ramses III. On returning to Luxor, board your choice of Nile cruise – both of which are considered amongst the most elite on the Nile. Overnight: Luxor.

The stunning temple complex of Amon-Ra at Karnak and the imposing Temple of Luxor will be visited this morning before your Nile Cruise casts off from the dock and starts making its way through the stunning scenery of Upper Egypt towards Edfu. Overnight: Edfu.

Visit the temple of the falcon-headed god Horus at Edfu with your Egyptologist. This is one of the most complete buildings surviving from the age of the Pharaohs. Then, sail to Kom Ombo to see the temples dedicated to Horus the Elder and the crocodile god Sobek. Afternoon tea will be served as you continue sailing south to Aswan. This evening a Galabiya party will be held on board your Nile cruise. Overnight: Aswan.

Discover Aswan this morning, one of the most beautiful spots in Egypt. Here the sands of the Sahara tumble directly into the Nile from high dunes, and the sleek hulls of sailing boats ply the tranquil waters between emerald islands and pink granite boulders. Sightseeing will include the Aswan High Dam (completed in 1971), the Quarries of the Pharaohs, and the beautiful Temple of Isis on Philae Island, which was rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Relax on board your floating hotel this afternoon. Overnight: Aswan.

Fly to Abu Simbel with Egyptair to see the stunning 30-century-old Temples of Ramses II. For many, the four great statues of Ramses are second only to the Great Pyramid in their majesty. After your visit, continue by air to Cairo. On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred the short distance to your conveniently located hotel.

A private transfer will bring you to Cairo International Airport where you will check in for your onward flight.