Delve into the world of Egypt’s legendary pharaohs, including King Tutankhamun, by browsing extraordinary treasures in the Grand Egyptian Museum and visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Seeing the enigmatic Sphinx will add more depth to your understanding of antiquity. Cairo will also seem timeless as you walk through its oldest neighborhoods and explore a medieval Islamic fortification. Although built in the late 18th century, the Muhammad Ali Mosque evokes a much earlier time as it rises above Cairo’s skyline.
Note: This program begins in Athens, Greece and ends in Cairo. Outbound flights must be booked from Cairo International Airport (CAI).
DAY 1
Upon disembarkation in Piraeus, you will be greeted by our local representative who will arrange your private transfer to the Athens International Airport.
From there, a two-hour flight will bring you to Egypt, the timeless land of the pharaohs, where your next adventure awaits.
Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be welcomed by our local airport representative prior to passport control. The representative will provide your entry visa and assist you through all airport formalities, including immigration, baggage claim and customs clearance.
After completing the formalities, you will transfer to the luxurious Four Seasons First Residence hotel. Following check in, you can settle into your elegant accommodations and prepare for your exciting adventures in Cairo the next day.
Overnight at the Four Seasons First Residence or similar hotel.
DAY 2
Start the day with a morning buffet breakfast at the hotel before joining the expert guide for an exploration of Cairo’s rich heritage. You will first visit the iconic Citadel of Saladin, a magnificent medieval Islamic fortification offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Within the Citadel, you will marvel at the architectural beauty of the Muhammad Ali Mosque, known for its impressive Ottoman design and grand domes.
Next, you will stroll along El Muiz Street, one of Cairo’s oldest streets, lined with remarkable examples of medieval Islamic architecture and mosques. Its bustling street life evokes the spirit of old Cairo.
You will then visit the Khan El Khalili market, a vibrant and colorful bazaar where you can immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and browse the traditional crafts, spices and jewelry.
After a lunch of traditional Egyptian dishes crafted from regional recipes, you will discover more about Egypt’s millennia-spanning history at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. This state-of-the-art museum offers an extraordinary journey through Egypt’s cultural heritage, showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times to modern day. The highlight will be the Royal Mummies exhibition room, where you will behold the preserved remains of some of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs, an unforgettable glimpse into ancient funerary traditions.
Afterwards, you will return to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure with dinner on your own.
Overnight at the Four Seasons First Residence or similar hotel.
DAY 3
After a buffet breakfast, you will visit the legendary Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Explore the massive pyramids and learn about the fascinating history, architecture and mysteries surrounding these ancient marvels.
Nearby, you will behold the enigmatic Sphinx, with its lion’s body and human head, standing guard over the desert for thousands of years. Your guide will share captivating stories and insights, bringing the ancient Egyptian civilization to life.
Following your morning exploration, you will indulge in a sumptuous lunch at a deluxe restaurant and then visit to the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum.
This world-class museum houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, offering an immersive experience through Egypt’s rich history. A highlight will be browsing the King Tutankhamun exhibition, showcasing the treasures and relics of the boy king in fascinating detail. Walk among priceless artifacts, golden masks and intricate jewelry, gaining deep insights into the life and legacy of one of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs.
After an enriching day of discovery, you will return to the hotel. Dinner will be on your own this evening, offering you the flexibility to discover local dining gems or enjoy the convenience of your hotel’s restaurants.
Overnight at the Four Seasons First Residence or similar hotel.
DAY 4
After an early-morning breakfast and check-out, you will transfer to the Cairo International Airport for your flight.
Land Program Step by Step
The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
Please note: This program is subject to flight confirmations (ATH-CAI),which are beyond our control. All program details, including timings and any flights referenced below are approximate and provided for general guidance only. All components remain subject to change. Direct flights cannot be guaranteed.
DAY 1
Please note: Timings may vary depending on actual flight times
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
AM Disembark at Piraeus
10:00am Drive to Athens International airport
11:15am Arrive at Athens airport
1:10pm Fly to Cairo (flight details TBA and subject to change)
3:05pm Arrive at the Cairo International Airport according to your flight details
Meet and greet by our representative
4:00pm Transfer to the hotel
5:00pm Check in at the Four Seasons First Residence
Dinner on your own
Overnight at the Four Seasons First Residence or similar hotel
DAY 2
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
AM Breakfast at the hotel
10:30am Proceed to the Citadel and Muhammad Ali Mosque
11:00am Visit the Citadel and Muhammad Ali Mosque
12:00pm Proceed to Khan El Khalili market
12:30pm Visit Muiz Islamic Street and Khan El Khalili market
1:30pm Lunch at a restaurant in Khan El Khalili market
2:30pm Proceed to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
3:00pm Visit the NEMEC, including the royal mummies exhibition hall
4:00pm Depart for the hotel
5:00pm Arrive at the hotel
Dinner on your own
Overnight at the Four Seasons First Residence or similar hotel
DAY 3
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
AM Breakfast at the hotel
9:00am Proceed to the Pyramids of Giza
9:45am Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
11:45am Proceed to lunch
12:00pm Lunch at a deluxe restaurant
1:00pm Proceed to the Grand Egyptian Museum
1:30pm Visit the GEM, including the King Tutankhamen exhibition
4:00pm Depart for the hotel
5:00pm Arrive at the hotel
Dinner on your own
Overnight at the Grand Hotel Palace or similar hotel
DAY 4
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
TBA Morning breakfast and check out
TBA Drive to the Cairo airport
TBA Arrive at the Cairo airport
TBA Fly home
General Information
Electricity:
220 volts. Bring a universal travel adaptor for your electric devices.
Expected Weather:
Average daytime temperatures in Cairo are around 86°F (30°C) in May, June and September, reaching up to 100°F (38°C) during July and August, and cooling to around 77°F (25°C) in October and November, providing a generally mild to warm climate throughout much of the year.
What to Bring:
Dress is generally casual, although when visiting mosques your knees and shoulders must be covered. Bring walking shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothes, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Currency:
The EGP is the local currency; however, most major credit cards are accepted except AMEX.
Luggage:
Guests are permitted to check in free of charge two suitcases not weighing more than 23kg/50 lbs. per bag and 1 carry on 8kg/17 lbs. Excess or overweight luggage will be charged accordingly at check in for your flight. Guests will require soft-sided luggage for the light aircraft flights.
Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)
1. Guests must obtain a doctor’s certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.
2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications, especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type).
3. These documents must be sent to the Land Program Team via the Reservations Team at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).
4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which the cruise line nor our local ground operator can be responsible for.
Please note: Some airlines may impose restrictions or specific requirements when transporting wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or other assistive devices. We recommend checking directly with your airline or the Cruise Line prior to departure to ensure compliance with their policies.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A valid passport with six months remaining until the expiration date is required for entry. U.S. citizens currently do not require a visa; however, this is always subject to change. Please contact your local embassy or consulate for the latest requirements and application procedures.
Vaccination & Health Regulations:
Guests are responsible for confirming up-to-date vaccination requirements directly with their local embassy or health authority. Please note that visa and vaccination costs are not included in the price of this program.
IMPORTANT DOCUMENTATION NOTICE:
To ensure successful flight arrangements for this program, the name on your cruise booking, passport, and any required visas must match exactly. This includes first, middle, and last names, with identical spelling across all documents. Discrepancies may result in denial of boarding by the airline.
Cruise line-generated manifests must align precisely with your official travel documents.
Failure to present the correct documentation or inconsistencies in guests names may lead to denied travel or the need to re-purchase tickets at your own expense. Guests will be responsible for any additional costs incurred due to these discrepancies.
Hotel Address & Contact:
The Four Seasons First Residence
35 Giza Street, Giza 12612, Egypt
Telephone: +20 2 35671600
Please Note: In the event of unforeseen circumstances, an alternative hotel may be arranged. Any substitute accommodation will match the original in both rating and quality. You will be informed of any changes prior to your departure. If no such notification is provided, your stay will proceed at the hotel specified in this program.
Program Includes:
•3 nights in Cairo at The Four Seasons First Residence or similar, bed and breakfast basis
•Transportation by private deluxe vehicles
•A qualified English-speaking guide during excursions
•Porterage in airports and hotels
•Complimentary bottled water during the excursions
•Economy-class flight as per itinerary (Athens / Cairo)
•All meals with bottled water, tea or coffee.
•Egypt visa entry
Program Excludes:
•Meals or services not mentioned above
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals, including mini bar and room service
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance,
Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. This program is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. Guests who choose to use independent transportation or wheelchair services provided by third-party companies may do so at their own risk and responsibility. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Booking, Pricing & Cancelation:
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. No refunds or partial refunds will be issued for any unused portion of the program. This includes, but is not limited to, missed transfers, accommodations, guided tours, meals, or activities. All venues, hotel stays, tour guides, and logistical services are secured and pre-paid well in advance to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability.
