Escorted Tours 2023 - 2025

with separate gateways and chapels for each god. The amazingly detailed etchings and carvings on the columns and walls of these temples are one of its most incredible features and a walk through the interior takes you into elaborately decorated chambers and passageways. Return to your ship and journey towards Aswan for an overnight stay. Day 6: Nile River Cruise B/L/D After breakfast, disembark to tour this colourful riverside city, nestled between water and desert. Start with a visit to the gigantic Aswan High Dam; the construction of this source of hydro-electricity required the movement of a number of nearby monuments to protect them from flooding. Continue on to the Unfinished Obelisk, a massive slab of granite that was carved but never erected, though it retains its status as the world’s largest ancient obelisk. Travel to the river island of Agilkia and take in the splendid Temples of Philae, built by the cult of Isis in honour of the Egyptian goddess of health and marriage. After lunch, enjoy a unique sailing experience as you breathe in fresh river breezes during a ride on a felucca, a traditional wooden sailing boat which carries you to the botanical gardens of Kitchener’s Island. Make your way back to your vessel, remaining for the night in the tranquil waters off Aswan Day 7: Nile River Cruise B/L/D Enjoy a day at leisure to relax or explore Aswan at your own pace, perhaps taking in the rock-cut Tombs of the Nobles which are nestled in the foothills and consist of more than 400 tombs belonging to nobles from the 6th dynasty to the Graeco-Roman period or why not embrace the views from the hilltop Aga Khan Mausoleum or the fragrant spices, woven baskets and colourful robes of the city’s souk. Alternatively opt to visit Abu Simbel, a series of temples intricately cut into a rocky cliff overlooking the Nile or join a bird- watching excursion and visit to Nubian house (both payable locally). Day 8: Nile River Cruise B/L/D Today offers a leisurely day of cruising, as you sail downstream to Edfu, bound for Luxor, passing through the Esna lock. Enjoy a day on board to soak in the sights on the river shores, lounge on the sun deck, take a dip in the swimming pool or relax on the deck with a cocktail. Day 9: Nile River Cruise B/L/D This morning starts with a visit to the vast Karnak Temple complex - over 200 acres housing temples and sanctuaries adorned with intricate hieroglyphics. Return to your ship for lunch, before continuing to the beautifully preserved Luxor Temple and explore the interior, statues and carvings of this religious site. Day 10: Luxor to the UK B After breakfast, transfer for your return flight, via Cairo, or continue on to your chosen extension. PLEASE NOTE: Your cruise and excursions are not exclusive to Mercury Holidays and will be shared with other travellers. Aswan Cairo Tour pace: Intermediate Life on-board Tastefully decorated throughout, this deluxe cruise boat offers high standards of service, accommodation and Egyptian hospitality. Each deluxe cabin has complimentary toiletries, air-conditioning, full-length opening panoramic windows and a balcony rail. Further amenities include a restaurant, a lounge bar, a large sun deck and a swimming pool. This is the 4th Mercury tour we have done. We will be using Mercury again and will recommend to friends and family.” J. Bell What’s included ✔ Return flights Heathrow to Egypt with Egypt Air ✔ Where you’ll stay Cairo, 5 H Ramses Hilton Hotel Nile River Cruise, 5 H MS Royal Viking ✔ 24 meals Upgrade your Nile Cruise to All-Inclusive from £199 ✔ 8 excursions ✔ Expert local tour guide Extend your tour Luxor city stay, 2 nights 5 H B&B from £159 Hurghada beach stay, 4 nights, 5 H All-Inclusive from £349 Departures & from prices Sep 2023 £1,899 Oct 2024 £2,349 Oct 2023 £2,099 Nov 2024 £2,149 Nov 2023 £1,999 Jan 2025 £2,249 Dec 2023 £2,099 Feb 2025 £2,249 Jan 2024 £2,249 Mar 2025 £2,249 Feb 2024 £2,249 Apr 2025 £2,149 Mar 2024 £2,249 May 2025 £1,949 Apr 2024 £2,149 Jun 2025 £1,849 May 2024 £2,049 Jul 2025 £2,299 Jun 2024 £1,849 Aug 2025 £2,049 Jul 2024 £2,299 Sep 2025 £2,049 Aug 2024 £2,049 Oct 2025 £2,349 Sep 2024 £2,049 Nov 2025 £2,149 • Lead-in price based on 8 Jun 24, 15 Jun 24, 7 Jun 25 & 14 Jun 25 • A single supplement starts from just £589 • Tipping paid locally £50 pp per tour Africa 105 Visit our website or call 0800 954 9329 to book or for further details