A 21-Day Desert, Temple & Nile Journey through Ancient Mysteries

Start: Cairo End: Aswan

Style: Overland Safari + Dahabiya Cruise
Theme: Mythic Landscapes · Esoteric Knowledge · Desert Magic · Nile Serenity

Program Description

An epic and immersive 21-day expedition, “Orion” traces the sacred topography of ancient Egypt from the Pyramids of Giza to the mystical Western Desert and along the storied waters of the Nile. Merging cultural exploration with spiritual discovery, the journey ventures into lesser-known monastic sites, WWII cemeteries, remote oases, and rock-carved temples.

Each day unfolds a new facet of Egypt’s spiritual and historical legacy, culminating in a luxurious Dahabiya sailing from Luxor to Aswan.

Whether camping under the stars in the White Desert or invoking Horus at Edfu, this is Egypt as few have seen it: raw, mystical, and utterly transformative.

Days in Detail

Day 1 – Arrival in Cairo

Arrive in Cairo and meet your representative for VIP assistance through airport formalities. Transfer to your central hotel in a private A/C vehicle.

Settle in and enjoy a welcome briefing.

Arrival: Cairo International Airport
Overnight: Steigenberger El Tahrir or similar

Day 2 – Giza Plateau, Memphis & Saqqara

Start the journey at the legendary Giza Plateau, a site of immense mystery and cosmic alignment.

Begin with an up-close exploration of the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World.

Continue to the Pyramids of Chefren and Mykerinos, each with its own architectural nuance and royal legacy.

Stand before the enigmatic Sphinx, a monument that has captured imaginations for millennia, representing the unification of spiritual and royal power.

Later, drive to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, to witness the colossal statue of Ramses II and the mysterious Alabaster Sphinx.

Conclude the day at Saqqara, where you’ll explore the vast necropolis and walk beside the revolutionary Step Pyramid of Djoser—the earliest monumental stone structure in Egypt, marking the transition from mastaba to pyramid.

Highlights: Valley Temple, Step Pyramid, Saqqara necropolis
Overnight: Cairo

Day 3 – GEM, Coptic Cairo & Bazaar

Begin with a visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), an architectural marvel overlooking the Giza Plateau.

This cutting-edge museum houses the most comprehensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world.

Marvel at the full exhibition of Tutankhamun’s treasures, including his golden mask, chariot, and personal belongings—many of which are on public display for the first time.

Wander through galleries that span millennia, offering deep insight into pharaonic civilization, religious beliefs, and artistic mastery.

Next, explore the spiritual core of Cairo in the Coptic quarter.

Visit the Hanging Church, built atop the gate of a Roman fortress, and the Church of St. Sergius (Abu Serga), where the Holy Family is believed to have taken refuge.

These sacred spaces echo with centuries of devotion, adorned with ancient icons and fragrant with incense.

Conclude the day in the vibrant bazaar of Khan El Khalili, a labyrinth of alleys alive with color, scent, and sound.

Shop for spices, perfumes, silver, handcrafts, and textiles while sipping mint tea at the historic El Fishawy café, a local institution since 1773.

Highlights: Grand Egyptian Museum, Coptic churches, historic bazaar** Grand Egyptian Museum, Coptic churches, historic bazaar

Overnight: Cairo

Day 4 – Wadi El Natrun & Marsa Matrouh

Drive toward El Alamein, pausing en route at the serene Wadi El Natrun, a spiritual heartland of Egyptian Coptic monasticism.

The desert basin once held salt lakes prized by the ancients and became a monastic center by the 4th century.

Here, visit three of the oldest and most revered monasteries: El Baramous, El Sorian, and Anba Beshoy.

These sacred enclaves hold ancient frescoes, relics, and icons, and offer deep insight into the ascetic lives of Egypt’s early Christians.

It’s also believed the Holy Family passed through this region during their flight into Egypt.

Continue your westward journey to the tranquil coastal city of Marsa Matrouh on the Mediterranean.

Enjoy scenic views of the shoreline and wind down the evening with a walking tour through the city center.

Highlights: Monasteries of Anba Beshoy, El Baramous, El Sorian, Holy Family route, Marsa Matrouh city walk Monasteries of Anba Beshoy, El Baramous, El Sorian
Overnight: Belle Vue Hotel, Marsa Matrouh

Day 5 – Agyba Beach & Siwa Oasis

Begin the day with a refreshing stop at Agyba Beach, one of Egypt’s most pristine Mediterranean stretches.

Framed by rugged cliffs and clear turquoise waters, this secluded spot offers a tranquil start to the morning.

Continue to Cleopatra’s Beach, home to a natural rock-cut pool believed to have been used by the legendary queen herself.

It’s a place imbued with myth and elegance, inviting a moment of relaxation and reverence.

After enjoying a seafood lunch at a local restaurant, set off on the desert road to Siwa Oasis, a remote sanctuary of Berber culture, palm groves, and ancient ruins.

Upon arrival, explore the atmospheric ruins of Shali Fortress, a labyrinthine clay village that once protected the oasis from invaders.

As the sun sets, take in panoramic views of Siwa’s date-palm-studded landscapes from its crumbling towers, capturing the quiet magic of this storied oasis.

Highlights: Mediterranean rock formations, Cleopatra’s pool, Siwa cultural heritage, Shali Fortress Mediterranean rock formations, Siwa town

Overnight: Siwa Shali Lodge

Day 6 – Siwa Highlights & Sand Sea

Immerse yourself in the mystical heritage of Siwa.

Begin at Cleopatra’s Bath, a crystal-clear spring said to have been used by the queen herself—a serene setting for reflection and refreshment.

Then travel to the ancient Oracle Temple, believed to have once hosted Alexander the Great, who sought divine confirmation of his lineage as the son of Amun.

The site emanates spiritual power, surrounded by desert silence.

Next, ascend the Mountain of the Dead, where dozens of rock-cut tombs are nestled into the hillside.

The view over the oasis and the Great Sand Sea beyond is awe-inspiring.

A charming donkey cart ride leads you through the shaded, palm-lined lanes of the town, offering a glimpse into the slow rhythm of oasis life.

In the afternoon, head off-road deep into the dunes of the Great Sand Sea for an exhilarating desert safari.

Traverse golden waves of sand, feel the wind in your hair, and relax in the geothermal waters of Bir Wahed, a desert hot spring ideal for stargazing and soul-soothing immersion.

Highlights: Oracle Temple, Cleopatra’s Spring, Great Sand Sea safari, Mountain of the Dead Oracle Temple, Great Sand Sea safari
Overnight: Siwa Shali Lodge

Day 7 – Siwa to Alamein & 6th October City

Depart Siwa early in the morning, bidding farewell to the serene beauty of the oasis.

Journey across the vast Western Desert back toward the Mediterranean coast.

Stop in El Alamein, a site of global historical significance as the turning point of World War II’s North African campaign.

Visit the evocative El Alamein War Museum, which offers detailed exhibits, personal artifacts, and multimedia presentations recounting the battle.

Pay respects at the Commonwealth, Italian, and German war cemeteries, solemn grounds honoring those who lost their lives in the desert sands.

After lunch en route, continue the drive to the southwestern outskirts of Cairo, arriving in 6th October City by evening.

This modern suburb offers a quiet respite before continuing your journey into Egypt’s desert heartland.

Highlights: El Alamein War Museum, Commonwealth and Axis cemeteries, desert journey transition
Overnight: Mövenpick Media City. Arrive at 6th October City for an evening of rest.
Highlights: El Alamein memorials
Overnight: Mövenpick Media City

Day 8 – Bahariya Oasis Arrival

Depart 6th October City and begin the journey southwest into the Western Desert.

Arrive in Bahariya Oasis, a lush haven surrounded by dunes and black volcanic hills.

After a welcoming lunch, begin exploring this tranquil desert town.

Walk among the date palm groves and learn about traditional irrigation systems that sustain the oasis.

Visit Ain El Bishmu, an ancient Roman spring believed to have healing properties, once part of the settlement’s vital water source.

Conclude the day with a gentle climb to the summit of the English Mountain, so named for the British lookout post during World War I.

From the top, take in a sweeping sunset panorama over Bahariya’s palm-filled basin, golden hills, and surrounding desert—a perfect moment for reflection.

Highlights: Ain El Bishmu spring, palm plantations, English Mountain sunset** Palm plantations, desert sunset
Overnight: International Hot Spring Hotel

Day 9 – Black Desert & White Desert Camp

Start the day with a visit to the tombs of local nobles at Qasr Selim, including the well-preserved 26th Dynasty tombs of Bannentiu and Zed-Amun-Ef-Ankh.

Continue to the Temple of Ain El Muftillah and the chapel built to honor Alexander the Great, revealing the Hellenistic influence on this remote desert region.

Begin your off-road adventure across the lunar-like landscapes of the Black Desert, where ancient volcanic activity has left a surreal layer of basalt-topped hills.

Stop at Crystal Mountain, a ridge glittering with natural quartz and barite crystals embedded in its rocks—an awe-inspiring geological wonder.

Continue past the dramatic dunes of the Agabat Valley and enter the White Desert National Park.

Here, camp beneath wind-carved limestone formations shaped like mushrooms, sphinxes, and fantastical creatures.

Experience the serenity of the desert night, dining under the stars in one of Egypt’s most otherworldly landscapes.

Highlights: Qasr Selim tombs, Crystal Mountain, Agabat dunes, White Desert camping** Crystal Mountain, sand dunes, limestone sculptures
Overnight: White Desert Camp

Day 10 – Farafra to Dakhla

Begin the day with a peaceful walk among the sculpted formations of the White Desert as the rising sun casts golden hues across the alien landscape.

Depart toward Farafra Oasis, one of Egypt’s smallest yet most artistically significant.

Visit the Badr Museum, a striking expression of desert life created by the self-taught artist Badr Abdel Moghny.

The museum houses sculptures and paintings made from sand, stone, and local materials, offering a window into the spiritual and ecological essence of the region.

Pause at Bir Sitta, a bubbling spring perfect for a refreshing rest, before continuing toward Dakhla Oasis.

En route, stop at the Roman Temple of Deir El Hagar, dedicated to the Theban Triad—Amun, Mut, and Khonsu—and built during the reign of Nero.

Arrive at Al Qasr, the old Islamic town, with its preserved alleys, mosques, traditional olive oil press, and mud-brick architecture offering a living portrait of medieval desert life.

Highlights: Desert art museum, Roman temples, Al Qasr old town** Desert art museum, Roman temples, Al Qasr old town
Overnight: Desert Lodge, Dakhla

Day 11 – Caravan Route to Kharga

In the heart of Dakhla, visit Mut City, named after the mother goddess in the Theban Triad, and continue to Balat Village, a labyrinth of mud-brick homes and narrow alleyways rich in architectural detail.

Explore Ain Asil, an ancient administrative center from the Old Kingdom featuring ruins of storage facilities and elite residences. Share a traditional lunch with a local family for a heartfelt experience of oasis hospitality.

Travel along the historic Darb El Arbaeen—”The Forty Days Road”—an ancient caravan route linking Sudan and Egypt.

Stop at the oasis town of Baris to observe Haj art, painted depictions of pilgrims’ journeys to Mecca.

Arrive at the ruins of the Roman fortress-temple complex at Dush, where Serapis, Isis, and Horus were worshipped, set amidst shifting desert sands.

Highlights: Mastaba tombs, Haj art, caravan trail** Mastaba tombs, Haj art, caravan trail
Overnight: Sol y Mar Pioneer

Day 12 – Hibis Temple & Travel to El Minya

Begin at the ancient necropolis of El Bagawat, one of the world’s earliest and best-preserved Christian cemeteries.

Marvel at mud-brick chapels adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting biblical scenes such as Adam and Eve, the Ark, and the Exodus.

These visual narratives offer an intersection of Coptic theology and Pharaonic iconography.

Continue to the Hibis Temple, a majestic sandstone structure built under Persian rule during the 26th Dynasty and dedicated to Amun.

Its reliefs present a fusion of Egyptian and foreign motifs, making it unique in the Western Desert.

After this deep dive into spiritual history, journey through the Nile Valley via Assiut to El Minya, stopping at Beni Hasan to explore the Middle Kingdom rock-cut tombs of provincial governors, famed for their vivid wrestling scenes and daily life depictions.

Highlights: Chapel of Exodus, Middle Kingdom art** Chapel of Exodus, Middle Kingdom art
Overnight: Grand Atoun Hotel, El Minya

Day 13 – Hermopolis & Amarna

Begin the day at Tuna El Gabal, an expansive necropolis that served as the burial site for high priests, scribes, and sacred animals.

Visit the catacombs where mummified ibises and baboons—symbols of the god Thoth—were interred.

See the Tomb of Isadora, a tragic love story preserved in stone, and explore the Greco-Roman ruins that mark this mystical site.

Continue to Al Ashmunien (ancient Hermopolis), where the open-air museum features two colossal baboon statues that once flanked the temple of Thoth.

Nearby, the ruins of a 5th-century basilica offer a glimpse into early Christian architecture in Middle Egypt.

Proceed to Tell el-Amarna, the short-lived capital of Akhenaten and Nefertiti.

Explore the northern and southern tombs carved into limestone cliffs, rich with sun-disk symbolism and intimate family scenes.

Visit the ruins of the Great Palace and the temple of Aten, absorbing the radical legacy of Egypt’s brief experiment with monotheism.

Highlights:Akhenaten tomb, basilica ruins, baboon statues** Akhenaten tomb, basilica ruins, baboon statues
Overnight: Abydos (House of Life or similar)

Day 14 – Abydos & Dendera to Luxor

Travel to Abydos, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites of ancient Egypt, believed to be the burial place of Osiris, god of the afterlife.

Enter the exquisitely preserved Temple of Seti I, famed for its vivid reliefs and detailed sacred scenes.

In the rear corridor, examine the Abydos King List, an invaluable chronological record of Egypt’s rulers.

Walk to the nearby Osireion, a subterranean cenotaph dedicated to Osiris.

Its enigmatic design and megalithic architecture invite contemplation and spiritual reflection.

Afterward, head to Dendera to explore the Temple of Hathor, goddess of music, love, and joy.

Gaze at the Zodiac Ceiling in the main hall and descend into the crypts where esoteric symbols line the walls.

As the afternoon sun fades, continue your journey to Luxor, heart of ancient Thebes and gateway to Upper Egypt’s treasures.

Highlights: Osiris worship, astronomical ceiling** Osiris worship, astronomical ceiling
Overnight: El Marsam Hotel, Luxor

Day 15 – Luxor West Bank Immersion

Start the day crossing the Nile to Luxor’s West Bank, the ancient necropolis of Thebes.

Begin with the Valley of the Kings, resting place of Egypt’s New Kingdom pharaohs.

Enter selected tombs—perhaps those of Ramses VI or Thutmose III—and admire the celestial maps, ritual scenes, and vivid preservation.

Visit the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of the few female pharaohs.

Carved into the cliffs at Deir el-Bahari, this temple reflects architectural genius and divine legacy.

Continue to the Valley of the Queens to see burial chambers of royal wives and children, and tour the Tombs of the Nobles to appreciate daily life scenes.

Stop at the Colossi of Memnon for a photo opportunity beside these towering statues, and complete the day at the Ramseum, the mortuary temple of Ramses II, where colossal statues lie toppled but powerful.

Highlights: Tombs, Mortuary Temples, Theban necropolis** Tombs, Mortuary Temples, Theban necropolis
Overnight: El Marsam Hotel, Luxor

Day 16 – Luxor Temples & Board Dahabiya

Begin the day with a guided exploration of Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex in ancient Egypt.

Wander through the Hypostyle Hall with its forest of towering columns, and trace the ceremonial processional routes used by priests and pharaohs.

Continue to Luxor Temple, beautifully aligned with the Nile and once connected to Karnak via the Avenue of Sphinxes.

This temple, illuminated by warm morning light, tells a tale of dynastic power, solar worship, and divine kingship.

After lunch, drive south to the town of Esna where your elegant Dahabiya sailboat awaits.

Board and settle into your cabin as the crew prepares for the voyage.

Enjoy a sunset sail along the Nile, watching life unfold on its banks, with dinner served onboard under the stars.

Highlights: Karnak Hypostyle Hall, Luxor Avenue of Sphinxes** Karnak Hypostyle Hall, Luxor Avenue of Sphinxes
Overnight: Dahabiya (El Kab Village)

Day 17 – El Kab & Edfu

Begin your day with a visit to El Kab, an ancient city enclosed within mudbrick walls.

Explore rock-cut tombs from the New Kingdom adorned with vivid scenes of daily life and warfare.

Visit the small temple dedicated to Nekhbet, the vulture goddess of Upper Egypt, protector of kings.

Sail onward to Edfu, where a horse-drawn carriage takes you through the modern town to the grand Temple of Horus.

Built during the Ptolemaic period, this is one of the most complete temples in Egypt.

Stand between the towering pylons and pass through sacred halls to the inner sanctuary, tracing the myth of Horus and his triumph over Set.

Highlights:Falcon god sanctuary, Nile-side ruins** Falcon god sanctuary, Nile-side ruins
Overnight: Onboard Dahabiya

Day 18 – Gebel El Silsila

Sail into the narrowest stretch of the Nile at Gebel el-Silsila, a dramatic gorge flanked by sandstone cliffs.

This ancient quarry supplied stone for many of Egypt’s great temples.

Disembark and walk among carved shrines and stelai honoring gods and pharaohs.

Visit the Temple of Horemheb, discreetly tucked into the cliffside.

For a panoramic view, climb to the summit and gaze over the river’s tranquil flow, flanked by golden hills.

Return to your Dahabiya for a BBQ dinner served on a remote Nile island—an unforgettable evening of stillness and starry skies.

Highlights: Unknown temples, panoramic desert views** Unknown temples, panoramic desert views
Overnight: Onboard Dahabiya

Day 19 – Kom Ombo & Nile Swim

Sail to Kom Ombo, a rare double temple uniquely dedicated to two gods—Sobek, the crocodile deity of fertility and protection, and Horus the Elder, god of divine kingship.

Admire its symmetrical design with twin entrances and mirror-image sanctuaries.

Intricate reliefs depict ancient surgical tools and healing rituals, reflecting the temple’s use as a center of medicine.

Later, sail to Herdiab Island, where you’ll enjoy lunch on the riverbank.

Swim in the Nile’s clear waters at a serene beach framed by golden sands and lush palms.

The rest of the day invites relaxation on deck as the Dahabiya glides toward Aswan.

Highlights: Crocodile god altars, sacred symmetry, Nile swimming at Herdiab

Overnight: Onboard Dahabiya. Swim at Herdiab Beach and relax on deck.

Highlights: Crocodile god altars, sacred symmetry

Overnight: Onboard Dahabiya

Day 20 – Aswan Temples & Felucca Ride

Disembark for a day exploring Aswan, Egypt’s serene southern gateway.

Begin with the Unfinished Obelisk, a colossal granite monument still embedded in its quarry—revealing the ancient engineering process and its abrupt halt.

Visit the High Dam, a 20th-century marvel that transformed Egypt’s irrigation and gave birth to Lake Nasser.

Then take a motorboat to Philae Island, home to the enchanting Temple of Isis.

Reconstructed on higher ground after the dam’s construction, the temple’s colonnades and sacred lake continue to inspire awe.

In the afternoon, board a traditional felucca and sail to Kitchener’s Island.

Stroll through its lush botanical gardens, a tranquil oasis filled with exotic plants and birds.

Highlights: Isis sanctuary, Unfinished Obelisk, Kitchener’s Island felucca

Overnight: Onboard Dahabiya, High Dam, and romantic Philae Temple.

Felucca sail to Aswan Botanical Garden for a peaceful stroll.
Highlights: Isis sanctuary, exotic flora
Overnight: Onboard Dahabiya

Day 21 – Final Departure

After a final breakfast aboard your Dahabiya, bid farewell to the crew and disembark on the West Bank of Aswan.

You’ll be transferred to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo or onward journey.

Depart carrying the energy of sacred temples, the serenity of the Nile, and the timeless magic of Egypt’s desert landscapes.

Departure: Aswan Airport for your onward flight to Cairo and final departure.
Departure: Aswan Airport

Included in Your Journey:

Hotel Overview Table

Destination	Hotel Name	Board Basis
Cairo (Arrival & Tour)	Steigenberger El Tahrir or similar	BB
Marsa Matrouh	Belle Vue Hotel or similar	HB
Siwa Oasis	Siwa Shali Lodge or similar	HB
6th October City	Mövenpick Media City or similar	HB
Bahariya Oasis	International Hot Spring or similar	HB
White Desert	Desert Camp	FB
Dakhla Oasis	Desert Lodge or similar	HB
Kharga Oasis	Sol y Mar Pioneer or similar	HB
El Minya	Grand Atoun Hotel or similar	HB
Abydos/Sohag	House of Life or similar	HB
Luxor	El Marsam Hotel or similar	HB
Dahabiya Cruise	Onboard Nebyt Dahabiya	FB

• Meet & assist at arrival and departure
• All ground transfers in modern A/C vehicles
• 4×4 Jeep transport for all desert safaris
• 3 nights in Cairo (Steigenberger El Tahrir or similar, BB)
• 1 night in Marsa Matrouh (Belle Vue Hotel or similar, HB)
• 2 nights in Siwa Oasis (Siwa Shali Lodge or similar, HB)
• 1 night in 6th October City (Mövenpick Media City or similar, HB)
• 1 night in Bahariya (International Hot Spring or similar, HB)
• 1 night camping in the White Desert (FB)
• 1 night in Dakhla (Desert Lodge or similar, HB)
• 1 night in Kharga (Sol y Mar Pioneer or similar, HB)
• 1 night in El Minya (Grand Atoun Hotel or similar, HB)
• 1 night in Sohag/Abydos (House of Life or similar, HB)
• 2 nights in Luxor (El Marsam Hotel or similar, HB)
• 5 nights on Dahabiya Nile cruise (FB)
• All entrance fees to mentioned sites
• English-speaking Egyptologist guide throughout
• Daily lunch from Day 2 to Day 16
• Bottled water and soft drinks during desert days
• Sweet and salty snacks onboard 4WDs
• Qualified professional desert drivers

Not Included:

• Egypt entry visa
• International and domestic flight tickets
• Optional tours and private sessions
• Personal expenses
• Beverages during meals at hotels/restaurants
• Alcoholic beverages
• Gratuities and tipping
• Any services not mentioned above