Escorted Tours 2023-2024

Kalabsha Temple located on an island on Lake Nasser near the Aswan High Dam. Day 7: Nile River Cruise B/L/D Transfer from your hotel to board your Nile River Cruise ship. After lunch onboard, enjoy your first excursion, and witness a pioneering example of hydro-engineering on the banks of the River Nile at the High Dam. Later, gain a fascinating insight into ancient Egyptian stone-work techniques with a visit to the Unfinished Obelisk in the Northern Quarries. Finally, take in the splendid Temple of Philae, built in 690 B.C in honour of the goddess of health and marriage; known as the last temple of classical Egyptian design, marvel at the domineering Pylons embellished with traditional hieroglyphs from its new position upon Agilkia Island, having been rescued from a watery grave on Philae Island during the dramatic flooding of Lake Nasser. Return to your vessel, for dinner onboard and your first night on the Nile. Day 8: Nile River Cruise B/L/D Early this morning, visit the iconic temples of Abu Simbel. Intricately carved into a golden sandstone cliff overlooking the Nile, wonder at the mesmerising 66-foot seated figures of King Ramses, before returning to the boat. This afternoon, glide along the Nile and sail into Kom Ombo for an unforgettable visit to the impressive Temple of Kom Ombo. Unique in its design, the symmetrical rooms, courts, and halls were identically duplicated and dedicated to two sets of gods: Sobek, the god of fertility, and Haroeris, the god of the sky. Day 9: Nile River Cruise B/L/D Pass through the Esna Lock and soak in incredible views as you sail towards the ancient settlement city of Edfu, disembarking for the chance to visit the Temple of Horus. Guarded by gargantuan granite statues of Horus, enter through the towering gateway, and discover the halls and chambers of this spellbinding ode to the gods which was once concealed under a blanket of sand. Upon arrival in Luxor, you will have the afternoon free to explore the city, relax or take in the optional Sound & Light Show in Karnak Temple (at an additional cost). Day 10: Luxor B After breakfast, disembark your cruise ship. Cross over to the west bank of Luxor, where you will visit the Valley of the Kings. From here continue to the Temple of Hatshepsut, a magnificent memorial temple built into the cliffs of this sacred valley. On the return, stop at the Colossi of Memnon, massive twin statues, the gatekeepers of the valley. Check into to your Luxor hotel. Day 11: Luxor B Visit the east bank of Luxor including the expansive Karnak Temple scattered across a 200-acre site, and the strikingly graceful Luxor Temple. Enjoy some time at leisure in the afternoon. Day 12: Luxor to the UK B After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight via Cairo, or continue on to your chosen extension. Fort Qaitbey Pompey’s Pilla Meal plan: 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 3 dinners Accommodation: Alexandria, 5 H Hilton Corniche Cairo, 4 H Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo to Aswan - Sleeper Train Aswan, 5 H Pyramisa Isis Island Aswan Hotel Nile River Cruise, 5 H Iberotel Crown Empress Luxor, 5 H Sonesta St. George Luxor Flights: London Heathrow to Egypt with Egypt Air Tour pace: Intermediate Gold Mask of Tutankhamun Philae Island Life on-board Offering the perfect blend of elegance and intrigue, the 5-star Iberotel Crown Empress provides high levels of comfort and spellbinding views of the Nile. All spacious cabins feature twin beds, air-conditioning, satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. Further onboard facilities include a large sundeck with a swimming pool and pool bar, a beautiful decorated restaurant and lounge bar. Departures & from prices 17 Jun 23 £2,199 13 Apr 23 £2,699 16 Sep 23 £2,299 11 May 23 £2,499 7 Oct 23 £2,499 8 Jun 24 £2,399 4 Nov 23 £2,599 21 Sep 24 £2,599 20 Jan 24 £2,999 12 Oct 24 £2,799 24 Feb 24 £2,899 9 Nov 24 £2,899 16 Mar 24 £2,799 23 Nov 24 £2,999 • A single supplement starts from just £639 • Tipping paid locally $60 Extend your tour Luxor city stay, 2 nights, 5 H B&B from £169 Hurghada beach stay, 4 nights, 4 H All-Inclusive from £439 Africa 117 Hundreds more escorted tours are available on our website www.mercuryholidays.co.uk