Delve into the antiquities of Egypt on this epic journey which begins in Cairo. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for a day at leisure.

Immerse yourself in a history that spans millennia during a full-day excursion to the old kingdom of Egypt. See the Colossus of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx at Memphis. Admire the Step Pyramid at Sakkara, then marvel at the Great Pyramid of Giza and the mighty Sphinx. This evening, watch as the walls of these feats of man are lit up in a dazzling Sound and Light Show.

This morning we fly to Luxor where we will enjoy a guided tour of the Karnak Temple complex and wonder at its colossal columns. We'll then explore the Great Temple of Luxor, which dominates the city. We'll board our cruise ship and settle in to our home for the next seven nights.

We travel north to Dendera where we spend the morning exploring the beautifully preserved Dendera Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Hathor. We return later to our ship, to cruise via the Esna Lock to Edfu.

Walk through Ptolemy XII's mammoth pylon and into the house of Horus, the beloved falcon god who was worshipped at the Temple of Edfu. Tonight, we don traditional galabeas for a memorable evening celebrating Egyptian culture and cuisine as we cruise along the Nile to Aswan.

Spend the day at leisure relaxing on-board your cruise ship.

View the Unfinished Obelisk, lying semi-carved from the solid bedrock, and visit the High Dam in Aswan. Continue to the Temple of Isis on the Island of Philae, then sail in a felucca to the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener's Island, sharing the Nile waters with locals plying their fishing trade.

Consider joining a once-in-a-lifetime Optional Experience to Abu Simbel. Later, we'll visit the roofless Temple of Kom-Ombo, worshipping two gods.

Watch how the river gives life to an arid landscape and the people who live within it as you sail down the Nile to Luxor.

We disembark at Luxor and travel to the West Bank, journeying back in time to explore the fascinating complex of mortuary temples and tombs, including Queen Hatshepsut's Temple, the Colossi of Memnon and the Valley of the Kings. We take a return flight to Cairo where we'll enjoy an evening at leisure to soak up the buzzing atmosphere for which the city is famous. This evening, consider an evening meal on board a floating restaurant with some lively Egyptian entertainment.

Your sightseeing tour through Cairo will include a visit to the Hanging Church of St. Mary in Old Cairo, the Alabaster Mosque and the Egyptian Museum.

Our expedition at its end, take a transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Airport transfers are available, conditions apply.