Egypt: Pyramids, Temples & the Nile - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the overall focus of this Egypt tour?

  This 10-day adventure, 'Egypt: Pyramids, Temples & the Nile', focuses on visiting all the main archaeological sites, including the ancient pyramids and majestic Nile, as well as stopping at smaller, lesser-known temples. It includes experiencing the Nile on a traditional dahabiya sailboat, connecting with a local family, and visiting the renowned Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation includes Hotels for 4 nights and a Traditional Dahabiya Nile Sailing Boat for 5 nights. Please note, some hotels may not have elevators, requiring you to climb stairs with luggage.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average group size of 12.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 7 dinners.

• What kind of transportation will be used during the trip?

  We will use a mixture of private vehicle, traditional Dahabiya sailboat, plane, and walking.

• Are local flights within Egypt included in the tour cost?

  Yes, all local flights are included in the cost of your tour. It is important to provide your passport information at the time of booking to process these tickets.

• What is the baggage allowance for domestic flights?

  The domestic flight maximum weight allowance is 20 kg.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory to participate. A minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, is required. We strongly recommend coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage.

• What is the recommended physical rating for this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3.

• Will I get my own room if I am a solo traveler?

  Single travellers joining group trips are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What currency is used in Egypt and what are the recommendations for money?

  The currency used is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are available in main cities and generally accept Visa and Mastercard. It's recommended to carry both card types, along with some cash (Euros, British Pounds, or new, good condition US Dollars) for situations where ATMs are not accessible. An additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund is advised.

• Are tips included in the tour price?

  On Geluxe Collection tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals. Tipping for the CEO (Group Leader) or Porterage is not included. A guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day is suggested for the CEO. For non-included meals and activities, a 10% tip is appropriate.

• What are the main highlights or experiences offered on this tour?

  Highlights include exploring the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, and Abu Simbel; cruising the Nile on a traditional dahabiya sailboat; visiting Luxor temple at night; enjoying a meal with a local family in Aswan; and diving into Egypt's history at The Grand Egyptian Museum.

• What is the role of the Group Leader (CEO)?

  The tour is accompanied by a Certified Egyptologist as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). Their role is to facilitate your travels, provide information on destinations, offer suggestions for activities and local eateries, and introduce you to local friends. They possess broad knowledge of the countries visited.

• What should I know about local dress codes and cultural sensitivity?

  When visiting mosques and other religious monuments, modest dress covering shoulders and knees is required. Outside of capital cities and main tourist centers, local dress is often more conservative. Both men and women are recommended to wear loose-fitting clothes with shoulders covered as a matter of respect. Your CEO can offer specific advice.

• Are there any specific health considerations for this trip?

  It is advisable to drink bottled water in Egypt. You should consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and recommended inoculations (typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, polio). Carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers is recommended. Please note that for legal reasons, leaders cannot administer drugs.

• Will Ramadan or other local holidays affect the tour?

  Yes, during Ramadan (e.g., Feb 28-Mar 29, 2025; Feb 17-Mar 19, 2026) and Aid Al-Adha (e.g., Jun 16-17, 2024; Jun 6-7, 2025), there may be limitations to services and disruptions to schedules, with most shops and restaurants potentially closed. Increased cultural sensitivity is very important during these times; please wear loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public out of respect for those fasting.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a positive impact through travel by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses and integrate their projects into the tour operator’s itineraries globally. The tour operator covers all operating costs, ensuring 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  If you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled or if your pre-booked airport transfer doesn't arrive within 30 minutes of clearing customs, please contact your starting point hotel or the emergency contact numbers provided in your dossier/voucher. If you cannot make contact, please proceed to the joining hotel via taxi and seek a refund for the transfer cost from your travel agent upon return.