In the Footsteps of Pharoahs
Join us on this awe-inspiring Journeys for Women tour through Egypt to travel from the Great Pyramids of Giza, to Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel and ending in the bustling city of Cairo. Visit the iconic and legendary Sphinx and witness the jaw-dropping enormity of the great pyramids. Walk through the Valley of the Kings and visit the rock-hewn tomb of King Tutankhamen. Sip tea on your balcony and savour the peace and tranquility of Aswan. Enjoy a four night cruise on a Dahabiya booked exclusively for us and the only way to truly appreciate sailing the Nile. Photograph magnificent Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, carved out of a rock cliff during the reign of Ramses II. Meander down the sphinx-lined entrance and bask in the grandeur of Luxor Temples at twilight. Meet local Nubian families, learn about traditional custom, delve into history and shop until you drop in colourful and chaotic bazaars. At the end of each action-packed day, rest and recharge in exquisite heritage hotels which have hosted the likes of Sir Winston Churchill and Agatha Christie. Above all enjoy a journey where you will laugh, learn and celebrate life with a group of like minded ladies!
Experience Egypt as a modern nation bustling with life and sound, and step back through the sands of time as you follow in the footsteps of pharaohs.
You will love
- Sailing the Nile on a private dahabiya boat
- Ancient pyramids & UNESCO world heritage sites
- Incredible, other-worldly landscapes
- 5* Hotels
- Retail therapy
- Small group of likeminded ladies
REAL ADVENTURE IN UNREAL STYLE
DAY 1 | THU 06 FEB | DEPART AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND
Depart Australia / New Zealand bound for Egypt. We recommend flying with Emirates via Dubai.
DAY 2 | FRI 07 FEB - GIZA | 3 NIGHTS - Nozol Pyramids Hotel
Welcome to Egypt! For thousands of years Egypt has been the playground of emperors and kings. Great civilisations have risen from its sandy interiors and the Nile continues to bring life to an otherwise barren land. Much of the scenery has barely changed since biblical times and the entire nation is wrapped in an ancient mysticism which has beguiled writers and romantics for centuries.
Overlooking the Great Pyramids of Giza, Nozol Pyramids Hotel offers one of the finest views in all of Cairo. We enjoy a welcome drink, a light Egyptian mezze and raise a toast to a fabulous fortnight ahead!
Included meals: Breakfast, light meal & Welcome drink
DAY 3 | SAT 08 FEB - GIZA
Visit two iconic ancient Egyptian sites this morning – the Giza Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx. Explore the interior of one of the legendary pyramids & take in the panorama of the Giza Plateau on foot or from atop a camel. Enjoy some local street food (on own account) before we head back to the hotel for an afternoon at leisure where you can catch up on sleep or finish that book you started. Take time to recharge after a long flight before we make our way to Mena House for an opulent hosted Welcome Dinner and watch the sun set over the Pyramids.
Included meals: Breakfast & Hosted Dinner
DAY 4 | SUN 09 FEB - GIZA
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is set to be the largest archaeological museum in the world and will house the complete Tutankhamun collection. Parts of the museum are expected to be open in 2024, after much anticipation, and so we will spend the morning on a guided tour exploring the collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts currently on show and housed within its cavernous interior including an immersive Tutankhamun exhibition not seen before in Egypt; enjoy a hosted lunch at one of the newly opened restaurants and shop for unique and eclectic gifts in the beautifully curated museum giftshop. Return to our hotel for the remainder of the afternoon & evening at leisure ‐ relax on the rooftop terrace and reflect on the day’s wonders with your birds eye view of the Pyramids.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 5 | MON 10 FEB - LUXOR | 2 NIGHTS - Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before transferring to the airport for our flight to Luxor | On arrival, transfer to our hotel before a guided tour to of the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple on Luxor’s East Bank. Dubbed the biggest open-air temple in the world, this monumental ancient Egyptian complex is adorned with colossal columns, intricate hieroglyphs, and the iconic Great Hypostyle Hall. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to the architectural marvels of ancient Thebes. In the evening, enjoy a hosted dinner on the banks of the Nile.
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6 | TUES 11 FEB - LUXOR
Travel to the West Bank of the Nile and enjoy a local breakfast before exploring the Valley of the Kings and its decorated tombs of the ancient Pharaoh Kings, including Tutankhamun’s tomb enclosed in 35‐century‐old walls. Visit the enormous funerary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, ancient Egypt’s first female pharaoh, followed by the gigantic Colossi of Memnon that acted as the Guardians of the West Bank of Luxor before lunch in one of the famous local restaurants situated on the Nile. Crossing back to the East Bank, the afternoon is at leisure to explore Luxor or relax by the pool, before we make our way to Luxor Temple, an ancient Egyptian marvel nestled along the Nile River. As the sun sets, admire majestic obelisks, graceful statues, and captivating hieroglyphs through the changing light as they whisper tales of pharaohs and gods.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 7 | WED 12 FEB - NILE CRUISE | 4 NIGHTS - Dahabiya
Optional sunrise hot air balloon ride above the Valley of the Kings early this morning.
Today we board Mandalla Dahabiya ‐ a stunning traditional sailboat and our private floating hotel for the next 4 nights. We will discover the Nile’s significant impact on ancient Egyptian civilization as we sail upstream from Luxor to Aswan aboard Mandalla. We have exclusive use of our floating oasis and will enjoy lunch and dinner on board.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8 | THURS 13 FEB - NILE CRUISE
This morning we set sail for Esna, a journey into the heart of Egypt’s cultural tapestry. As we gracefully navigate the Nile, the experience is not just a scenic cruise but a historic voyage. Crossing the Esna Lock is a fascinating part of this journey, where the dahabiya is carefully maneuvered through the lock’s chambers, showcasing the engineering marvels that facilitate the Nile’s navigation. Esna marks the ancient division between Upper and Lower Egypt. The unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under the pharaohs, symbolised by the famous “pschent” double crown, marked a significant event in ancient Egyptian history. As we leave the bustling and cosmopolitan backdrop of Lower Egypt behind, we enter the more serene and traditional landscape of Upper Egypt with its lush riverbanks, ancient temples and slower pace of life.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9 | FRI 14 FEB - NILE CRUISE
An early start for our crew as we set sail before sunrise to arrive in Edfu for a pre-breakfast tour of the Temple of Horus, the Falcon‐headed God of the sky. We will board a horse and carriage to arrive at the temple before the crowds (and the heat of the day!) to experience its wonders mostly to ourselves. This stunningly well‐preserved & colourful structure is one of the largest in Egypt, built in 230BC by Ptolemy III it reveals what temple worship was like in ancient Egypt. Edfu Temple carries within its walls the legends surrounding Good and Evil represented in the stories of Isis & Osiris. Back on board, we sail to Ğebel el‐Silsila ‐ an archaeological site on both banks of the Nile & once the most important sandstone quarry in Egypt. It is one of the less frequented sites along the mighty Nile as larger vessels cannot reach this site (on our small Dahabiya we can!) This evening we dine on traditional Egyptian food & enjoy Arabic Music and dancing ‐ time to break out your bespoke Gallabeyah or Belly Dancing outfit!
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10 | SAT 15 FEB - NILE CRUISE
Our Dahabiya moors almost directly in front of the Greco‐Roman Temple of Kom Ombo (Hill of Gold) dedicated to the Sun God Horus & the Crocodile God Sobek, considered by some ancient Egyptians to be the creator of the world. We will walk to the entrance and enjoy a guided tour before viewing the mummified remains of several crocodiles that once basked along the ancient Nile shore, just as their descendants do today. Later we continue sailing upstream watching the golden sand dunes tumble into green fields that melt into the Nile, water buffalo grazing along its shores and kids playing on the banks before we reach Al Ramadi Island where we can swim, sunbathe and walk before we enjoy a BBQ dinner on shore under the stars.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11 | SUN 16 FEB - ASWAN | 3 NIGHTS - Old Cataract Hotel Aswan
On arrival in Aswan this morning, disembark from our dahabiya after breakfast, bidding a fond farewell to our fabulous crew. Here we board a small motorised boat to Philae Temple on the island of Ageilika. This sacred complex was dedicated to the Goddess Isis and reflects a fusion of three great civilizations ‐ Egyptian, Greek, and Roman. The temple was dismantled and painstakingly reassembled when the Aswan High Dam was constructed.
The coffee shop at the temple is a good place to get a cooling drink and light refreshment before we make our way to the Aswan High Dam. This monumental engineering feat spanning the Nile River near Aswan was completed in 1970, and stands as one of the world’s largest dams, providing flood control, hydroelectric power for the region, and regulating water flow for Egypt’s agricultural development.
Our accommodation for the next three nights is the Old Cataract Hotel, a historic icon perched on the banks of the Nile. Established in 1899, this colonial-era gem has hosted royalty, dignitaries, and literary legends. Its timeless charm, blending Victorian and French influences, complements stunning Nile views. After check in, the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to enjoy this spectacular iconic hotel, before we meet again for a hosted dinner overlooking the Nile.
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 12 | MON 17 FEB - ASWAN + ABU SIMBEL
An early breakfast (or optional boxed breakfast) before we board our bus for a ride through the Southern Desert to the famed temple of Abu Simbel near the border with Sudan. Most famous for the two massive rock-cut temples built during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BCE, the Great Temple of Abu Simbel is dedicated to Ramesses II, while the smaller temple honors his queen, Nefertari. These awe-inspiring structures were relocated in the 1960s to save them from submersion following the construction of the Aswan High Dam.
Lunch en route from a local falafel café before our return to Aswan, where you can take time to explore the town or simply relax and swim in the pool, enjoy the complimentary spa or indulge in a treatment. You can also join a tour given by one of the resident guides and learn about the history of this magnificent hotel which inspired Agatha Christie’s ‘Death on the Nile’.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 13 | TUES18 FEB - ASWAN
Aswan, with its rich history and unique cultural blend, has also become a hub for the perfume industry in Egypt. Local artisans in Aswan craft exquisite fragrances using traditional methods and natural ingredients, influenced by the region’s flora. After breakfast at the renowned 1902 Restaurant, we visit an essential oil workshop and learn how ancient Egyptians first used perfumes, and immerse ourselves in the scents that echo Aswan’s distinctive charm. Stock up on gifts or treat yourself to a beautiful fragrant oil as a reminder of your time in Egypt.
Before lunch, we board a traditional felucca for a days sailing, a chance to relax and enjoy local life and scenery. A lazy lunch on board as we take in the sights, chat and inevitably sneak in a snooze.
In the late afternoon, we jump onto a motor boat and visit a nearby Nubian Village where we will be welcomed for dinner with a local Nubian family.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 14 | WED 19 FEB - CAIRO | 2 NIGHTS - Four Seasons Nile Plaza - Nile View
After an early breakfast we transfer to the airport for our flight to Cairo. On landing we will explore Old Cairo, discovering the cultural treasures of The Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches in Egypt, the Abo Serga Church with its ancient icons, and The Synagogue of Ben Ezra which stands on the site where it is believed baby Moses was found in the bulrushes. Immerse yourself in the bustling charm of Khan el Khalili bazaar, a labyrinth of narrow alleys, local shops and historic tea houses, before a hosted lunch at the famous Nagib Mahfouz cafe.
After lunch we will visit the well renowned Atef Wassef Silver Shop, enjoy mint tea with the owner and haggle over stunning silver treasures you won’t want to leave behind, before we take a leisurely stroll through downtown Cairo to admire the colonial architecture and maybe pop into one of Cairo’s famous patisseries for a little baklava to round off the day.
After check-in at our hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind at leisure.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 15 | THURS 20 FEB - CAIRO
Today we take a guided tour of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation, the first museum in the Arab world focused on the earliest civilisation in history, and home to 22 royal mummies that are part of a grand exhibit known as ‘The Pharaohs’ Golden Parade’, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian royalty, their rituals, and the cultural context of their time.
Following lunch (to own account) in the Civilisation cafe, we will enjoy a tour of the Citadel of Saladin, a medieval Islamic fortification perched high above Cairo and constructed in the 12th century to defend against Crusader attacks. The Citadel offers panoramic views of Cairo, making it a captivating destination for both history enthusiasts and admirers of Islamic architecture. Situated within the Citadel, the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Muhammad Ali Pasha Mosque, is a striking masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha in the 19th century, the mosque showcases a blend of Ottoman and Mamluk architectural styles. Its grand dome and towering minarets, made of alabaster, contribute to its imposing presence on Cairo’s skyline.
Depending on how ‘open’ the Grand Egyptian Museum, this afternoon we will visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities which hosts the finest pieces of Egyptian civilisation and history. Tonight we say farewell with a hosted dinner at a restaurant on the Nile, a time to reflect on the fun we’ve had and the new friends we have made!
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 16 | FRI 21 FEB - CAIRO | DEPARTURE
Enjoy your last morning in Egypt at leisure – do some last-minute shopping, enjoy a stroll along the Nile, or have a final dip in the pool before packing your bags and transferring to the airport either to board your flight home OR if you are keen to extend your exploration of the Middle East you may wish to take a look at our post-tour add-ons : the ‘Jewels of Jordan’ and ‘Oh My! Oman – an Arabian Adventure’
Bid farewell to newfound friends if you are flying home. Those continuing to another Middle Eastern gem – Yalla! Let’s go!
A more detailed itinerary is available on request – please click here
ACCOMMODATION
A handpicked selection
Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa – Luxor
Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa is located on the east bank of the lush River Nile, boasting glorious views over the river and the historic city of Luxor. It provides the perfect base for exploring the Valley of the Kings, visiting the temples of Karnak and Luxor or wandering the souk areas in search of treasures to take home. Read More
MS Mandalla Dahabiya – Nile River Boat
Dahabiyas are river-going sailboats which were common in Egypt during the 1920s-40s, when aristocrats and sophisticated travellers used them to cruise the Nile in style. Sailing aboard a dahabiya remains one of the most exclusive and relaxing ways to experience the Nile, watching scenery float by. Read More
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract – Aswan
Rising grandly from a pink granite shelf at the edge of the Nubian Desert with views of Elephantine Island, the five star Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan hotel sits within a 19th-century Victorian palace and blends a stunningly beautiful setting with ancient heritage and modern design. Read More
Four Seasons at Nile Plaza – Cairo
Situated on the banks of the Nile with panoramic views Cairo and the pyramids beyond, the Four Seasons at Nile Plaza offers an iconic Egyptian experience. The rooms are luxurious and plush, styled with ornate light fittings, thick carpets, and golden colour palettes - gilded luxury fit for a pharaoh. Read More
NEED TO KNOW
14 nights | 07 February - 21 February 2025
14 nights
07 February - 21 February 2025
FROM US$10,490 PER PERSON TWIN SHARE
FROM US$10,490 PER PERSON TWIN SHARE
START: Cairo | Finish: Cairo
We recommend flying with Emirates via Dubai. Please call to discuss your individual flight requirements.
Australia & New Zealand passport holders require a visa for Egypt for a stay of up to 30 days. US$30 online prior to arrival. If you do not travel on an Australian or New Zealand passport please be sure to let us know and we will advise if there are any visa requirements.
HIGHLIGHTS OF OUR JOURNEY
- 10 nights in stunning hotels and 4 nights on a private dahabiya
- Great Pyramids of Giza – one of the World’s Seven Wonders
- Egyptologist guide accompanying throughout
- Riding camels on the Giza Plateau for that iconic photo
- The Grand Egyptian Museum—open for the first time in 2024
- Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Karnak Temple
- Watching the moon rise over Luxor Temple
- Wandering through ancient tombs in the Valley of the Kings
- Flying high over Luxor in a hot air balloon at dawn
- Sailing the majestic River Nile in a private dahabiya
- Swimming in the cool waters of the Nile
- Discovering the Greco-Roman Temple of Kom Ombo
- Tasting delicious street food and meeting friendly locals
- Creating our own signature scent at an Aswan perfumery
- Walking through Nubian Villages and dining with a local family
- Marveling at the enormity of the Great Temple of Abu Simbel
- Whiling away the afternoon on board a traditional felucca
- Historical walking tour of Old Cairo and its labyrinthian streets
- Discovering Egypt’s rich and diverse history
- Sip tea under the canopy of Khan El Khalili’s covered bazaar
- Retail therapy at its absolute best!
- Travelling with a small group of like-minded ladies
- And even more surprises…..
Inclusions
- Escorted by Iman Muldoon, Travel Designer, Tour Leader & Egypt specialist
- 10 nights in 5 star hotels as specified (or similar)
- 4 nights aboard a traditional Egyptian Dahabiya Sailing Boat
- Economy class domestic flights Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo
- Breakfast daily + 9 lunches + 9 dinners
- Bottled water whilst touring
- Airport arrival and departure transfers on dates specified to / from Emirates/Qantas flights on arrival & departure days
- Land transportation in air-conditioned deluxe vehicle throughout the itinerary
- Special entry to Tutankhamen’s Tomb in Luxor & Mummies Room in the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation
- Camel ride at the Great Pyramids
- Felucca sailing in Aswan
- Nubian Village visit + dinner & dancing with a Nubian Family
- Visit to Valley of the Kings & Hatshepsut’s Temple
- Walking tours in Old Cairo, Luxor and downtown Cairo
- Day trip to Abu Simbel & Lake Nasser
- All sightseeing hosted by English speaking guide + all entrance fees to monuments outlined
- All gratuities for porters, local guides & group restaurant meals whilst on tour
- Once in a lifetime, experiences throughout the journey
- Small group of like-minded ladies
Exclusions
- International air arrangements plus all applicable pre-paid departure taxes
- Travel Insurance and individual health requirements
- Additional meals & snacks + all drinks (essentially 6 lunches + 5 dinners + drinks)
- Room or flight upgrades
- Transfers to any flight other than specified Emirates/Qantas flights
- Laundry, camera fees (minimal) and personal purchases
- Discretionary tip for Dahabiya boat crew (budget US$250)
- Egypt Tourist Visa
- Items of a personal nature & any item not specified
Minimum – 8 travellers
Maximum – 16 (plus host)
Flights & Insurance – on request
Recommended Routings to Cairo | Emirates or Qantas (codeshre) via Dubai | Etihad / Qantas via Abu Dhabi
Terms and conditions apply – please click here for full details.
This tour departs with a minimum of 8 people and a maximum of 15 people (plus host).
A single room supplement applies of US$3,260 if you wish to secure your own room. If you are ‘willing to share’ we will do all possible to pair you with another participant. If unsuccessful the single supplement will apply. Call us to discuss.
The price is subject to change due to currency fluctuation and unforeseen changes beyond our control.
We reserve the right, due to situations beyond our control, to substitute any hotel or boat with another of comparable quality – this would be advised as soon as possible.
All quoted airfares & taxes are subject to change at anytime prior to, or at the time of, ticketing.
Australian & New Zealand passport holders require a visa for Egypt for a stay of up to 30 days. Visa must be obtained online prior to arrival. If you do not travel on an Australian or New Zealand passport please be sure to let us know.
By making any payment for this tour, and/or joining this tour, you acknowledge the potential health risks & you accept full responsibility for all potential quarantine and/or health requirements.
Hosted by...
Iman Muldoon
Iman has lived in the Middle East and Africa, and has travelled extensively both as a journalist and travel specialist, forging connections and friendships across continents. An Egyptian by birth, Iman is happiest when she is immersed in her native Egypt, haggling in a souk, sipping mint tea with locals, or sharing stories over a shisha. She loves exploring new destinations and creating exciting itineraries that bring the culture, adventure and spirit of a country alive for women's only journeys.
Firstly thank you for introducing me to the wonderful tours of Journeys for Women. The trip was superbly organised, the hotels brilliant and activities, informative and spectacular. This definitely won't be the last trip that I take.
Kris ISarah was full of fun, life, ideas, knowledge and of course madly making it all happen seamlessly for us!! So so appreciate everything you did for us, our survey was just full points on every score because everything to do with the trip was full points on every score!
Jacquie ROMG – what an unbelievably, amazing experience we all had. All accommodation and staff were fabulous. So blessed and so lucky – still smiling as I think about my adventure!! Thank you Sarah for such an amazing trip. I can’t begin to tell you how fabulous it was and how much of a spectacular time I had.
Dianne BWhat an incredible trip with the best crew. Still seems surreal to me.
Jenny McThank you all for such a wonderful trip. It really was fabulous and your companionship made it extra special.
Marian CI'm still pinching myself a week later, as I remember our spectacular Egypt adventure. Look forward to seeing you again soon.
Michelle HThat was a spectacular holiday! Can't imagine how I'll answer if I'm asked to pinpoint a standout experience. Every day was an incredible experience never to be forgotten. Thanks all for such a beautiful and special group, and huge thanks to Sarah and Iman for making it the wonderful experience that it was.
Julia K
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