Egypt

Visiting Egypt is like stepping into a living tapestry of ancient history, vibrant culture, and dramatic landscapes. From standing in the shadow of the Great Pyramids and drifting along the Nile to exploring bustling bazaars filled with colour and craftsmanship, every moment feels rich with story and significance. The blend of timeless monuments, warm hospitality, and immersive experiences—whether in Cairo’s lively streets, Luxor’s temple-lined avenues, or the serene expanse of the desert—makes Egypt a destination that captivates travellers long after they’ve returned home.

Ancient Egypt and The Nile in Style

Women Only Tour

(Option for 7 day Jordan Extension)

Jordan Extension to Egypt Women-Only Tour

Our Women Only Tours are created for women who love to explore and want to share the journey with others who feel the same. Whether you're venturing out on your own or travelling with a friend, these small group tours offer a safe, supportive, and inspiring way to experience remarkable destinations such as Egypt and India—countries rich in culture, colour, and unforgettable moments.

These tours are a great choice for women who enjoy travelling in the company of others. You’ll join a group of like-minded travellers who share your curiosity and love of discovery, fostering a sense of connection and friendship from day one. With set departure dates and most tours guaranteed with as few as four travellers, you get the benefits of group travel along with the personal attention and flexibility of a more intimate experience.

Led by expert local guides and built around thoughtfully curated itineraries, these journeys offer authentic cultural encounters, unique experiences, and the joy of sharing it all with a supportive group of fellow women travellers.

Women Only Small Group Tour with licensed female Egyptologist

Guaranteed with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 16 passengers

Twin-share option available on request (subject to availability)

11 Days ex Cairo

Departure Date ex Cairo: 08 May 2026

Highlights:

  • Your Egypt experience begins, prior to immigration when you will be met by a licensed representative, assisted with your Egyptian visa, and expressed through immigration  

  • Your seamless welcome experience continues with the benefit of our local representative, who will accompany your arrival transfer, passing on handy tips and to assist with your check in at the five-star Hyatt Regency, Cairo West Hotel where you will greet your fellow travellers at a welcome dinner

  • Experience the comfort of Deluxe hotels in strategic locations

  • Savour sailing down the Nile aboard the stylish deluxe cruise ship, the Movenpick Royal Lily

  • Bonus: All tipping is included, for all included services

Day 1 - Fri 8 May: Cairo

On arrival in Cairo, you will be met by our friendly local representative prior to immigration and assisted with your included Egyptian visa. No need to be concerned about jet lag with the Innovative Travel special FAST TRACK service through immigration. You will then be transferred in a private vehicle to the Hyatt Regency Cairo West Hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure. A welcome dinner is included this evening, hosted by your guide and meeting your fellow travellers.
(Note: please plan to arrive in Cairo by 2pm to allow time for immigration and transfer to the hotel in time to join the welcome dinner).

Day 2 - Sat 9 May: Cairo (BD)

A day to remember! Meet your private Egyptologist guide and embark on a full day sightseeing tour of the Pyramids, Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).

Begin your day with a visit to the impressive site of the Pyramids. Construction began in 2690 BC, the Pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren & the Great Pyramid of Cheops, are the only survivors of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Face the mystical Sphinx, reputedly used as target practice by Napoleon’s troops.  

Continue to the captivating new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the world’s largest and most comprehensive archaeological museum dedicated to one civilization, located near the Great Pyramids of Giza.
Spanning over seven millennia of Egyptian history, the GEM houses over 100,000 exhibits illuminating the legacy of Egypt’s ancient civilization. Upon entering, see the colossal statue of Ramses II, a commanding presence that once stood in Cairo’s Tahrir Square and now presides proudly over the museum’s grand atrium. From here, ascend the Grand Staircase, an architectural masterpiece that rises through time itself—each level thoughtfully curated to reflect a distinct era of Egypt’s rich past. At the top, view the Pyramids through a sweeping panoramic window. To the right lies the Tutankhamun Gallery, home to the legendary treasures of the Boy King. This remarkable exhibit, a recreation of his tomb, displays over 5,000 artifacts—many unveiled for the first time. Continue through the galleries showcasing artifacts, from prehistoric times and early dynasties to stories of pharaohs, gods, and everyday life, uncovering the mysteries and marvels of one of the world's oldest cultures, along with the rhythm, of daily life along the Nile. Conclude your visit with time to browse the museum’s elegant shopping arcade or relax in one of its cafes.

Lunch own arrangements today.

Dinner this evening, is in a special restaurant, on the roof top bar, overlooking the pyramids.

Day 3 - Sun 10 May: Cairo - Luxor (BD)

This morning you will embark cross country to the ancient capital of Memphis, then continue to visit the original pyramids at Sakkara – the oldest surviving Egyptian pyramid. This most ancient of pyramids was the first to be built in ancient Egypt, preceding those at Giza by many centuries. Essentially a sequence of decreasingly sized mastaba placed atop each other, this architectural advance of raising tombs closer to the heavens ultimately led to the creation of the Great Pyramids of Giza. 

Upon completion of your tour, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. On arrival at Luxor Airport you will be assisted by our local Luxor Airport team and transferred to the Hilton Luxor for an overnight stay. Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.

Day 4 - Mon 11 May: Luxor (BLD)

Optional visit (surcharge applies): Mummification Museum

This morning visit the Mummification Museum, dedicated to this ancient art of embalming applied to humans and for animals. The process is believed to have taken 70 days and involved a careful process. Here view ancient mummies, including that of General Amun el Thebes. 

Later this morning transfer to the Movenpick Royal Lily cruise ship. This deluxe five-star cruise ship offers an unparalleled experience between Luxor and Aswan. Featuring 56 elegant deluxe cabins (approx. 22 sq. metres), and 4 exquisite Royal Suites (approx. 42 sq. metres) complete with a jacuzzi bathtub and generous amenities.  
Facilities include: Outdoor pool with sun deck & bar, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, onboard spa featuring a dedicated massage room and sauna for relaxation, library & business centre, Wi-Fi.  
Deluxe cabins feature: panoramic windows offering wide, unobstructed views of the changing scenery, satellite TV, mini-bar, toiletries, bathtub, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities, electronic safe.  
Option available to upgrade to a Royal Suite (surcharge applies). 

This afternoon, visit the magnificent Luxor Temple, built in the 14th century BC by two kings – Amenophis III and Ramses II. Follow the Avenue of the Sphinx to the Karnak Temple complex and gaze in awe at this imposing monument housing precious relics of Ancient Egyptian dynasties. Dinner on board followed by this evening’s entertainment, a belly dancing show.

Day 5 - Tue 12 May: Luxor - Esna (BLD)

Optional Hot Air Balloon Trip (surcharge applies)

Early this morning cross to the West Bank and visit Thebes Necropolis and the burial ground of the Pharaohs – the Valley of the Kings – where Howard Carter discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. Proceed to the nearby Valley of the Queens, the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon facing the Nile. Your visit today includes a special upgraded ticket to include access to the tomb of the boy king Tutankhamun and the tomb of Ramses VI.

The last stop this morning is at the Habibi Cotton factory, located on the West Bank and providing employment for local women. Here high-quality Egyptian cotton garments, scarves, and beautiful art works, along with many other goods are produced, the opportunity to purchase is available.

Return to the ship and set said for Esna. Lunch is served whilst sailing to Esna.  

Note: Whilst crossing through the Esna Lock, entrepreneurial local families arrive by boat and cheerfully throw various handmade local ware up to the boat for inspection. We encourage our clients to support this local initiative, a key form of income for local families, with some local Egyptian cash on hand.  

This evening join the Captain’s welcome cocktail party followed by dinner and overnight at Esna.

Day 6 - Wed 13 May: Esna - Edfu - Kom Ombo (BLD)

Early morning departure to Edfu, with a delicious breakfast aboard. Visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples of the Greco - Roman era. Continue cruising to Kom Ombo and later in the afternoon visit the Temple shared by two Gods – Sobek & Horus. The temple is perfectly symmetrical, ensuring neither God was offended. The collection of crocodile mummies held here is fascinating. Overnight in Kom Ombo, with the opportunity to view the sun setting over this spectacular temple. This evening there will be a Galabaya party onboard.

Note: Galabaya's may be rented or purchased onboard or from one of the local markets.

Day 7 - Thu 14 May: Kom Ombo - Aswan (BLD plus High Tea)

Early morning sailing to Aswan. This morning take your local boat across to the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser at the time of the High Dam’s construction. Later visit the High Dam. Return for lunch on board and time to relax.   Mid-afternoon transfer to the Sofitel Old Cataract, base for Dame Agatha Christie as she penned “Death on the Nile”. Savour a High Tea whilst sitting on this famous terrace overlooking the Nile. Later return to the ship for dinner this evening, followed by a colourful Nubian Show.

Day 8 - Fri 15 May: Aswan - Cairo (BD)

Disembark this morning, with time to explore Aswan or your choice of two optional tours.

Optional Tours (surcharge applies):

Option 1: Nubian Museum (surcharge applies - minimum of 2 required)

After disembarkation meet your guide and transfer to the International Nubian Museum. The kings of Nubia ultimately conquered and ruled Egypt for a century. Known for its rich deposits of gold, Nubia was also the gateway for the incense trade, their rulers building cities, temples and their own royal pyramids. After your tour, time free to explore Aswan in your own time, before departing to the airport for your flight to Cairo.  

Option 2: Abu Simbel Tour (surcharge applies)

An early morning transfer from the cruise boat to Abu Simbel Airport. Depart on EgyptAir to Abu Simbel. On arrival be met by a local Egyptologist and join a small group tour to one of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Egypt, not only for its historical significance, but for the great engineering success in moving these temples to their present location.  
Of all the temples of Egyptian antiquity, amongst the most spectacular and best preserved are the Temples of Abu Simbel. The master builder was Ramses II, one of Egypt’s greatest Pharaohs. The larger temple celebrates the Pharaoh himself while the smaller one honours his wife, Queen Nefertari.  
When the new Lake Nasser Dam was built in the 1960s, the temples were moved to save them from a watery grave. In an amazing feat of engineering, the temples were hewn into huge blocks of thirty tonnes each and relocated 180m further inland.  
Please wear sturdy footwear today, pack some snacks and water bottle. At the conclusion of your tour, transfer to Abu Simbel Airport, for your flight to Aswan, connecting to Cairo. 

This afternoon transfer to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo. On arrival our Cairo Airport team will meet and assist you. Transfer to the Sofitel Gezirah Hotel where you are reserved for two nights. Dinner at your hotel this evening.

Day 9 - Sat 16 May: Cairo (B)

Today you will explore this modern cosmopolitan capital with a rich heritage of cultural influences and echoes of ancient civilisations. This morning visit the Tawasol NGO which supports local women into small business. Continue to the magnificently curated National Museum of Ancient Civilizations. The Museum’s vision is to bring the rich tapestry of tangible and intangible Egyptian heritage to life within a vibrant cultural, artistic and scientific context. After your visit which spans many millennia, move downstairs to the Mummy Room, to view their spectacular Mummy exhibits, in your own time. Continue to the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, open since the 1382, with time for shopping. Conclude your day on a rooftop bar, watching the sun set over Cairo’s skyline, with a local drink of wine, beer or juice included. Return to your hotel. Dinner this evening own arrangements, perhaps dine at one of the many hotel restaurants, or dine locally. Your guide will provide recommendations.

Day 10 - Sun 17 May: Cairo (BD)

Morning at leisure or join the optional morning tour (min. 2 passengers - surcharge applies):

Coptic Cairo (optional tour - surcharge applies): Visit old Cairo’s Coptic Churches. It was in this area that Jesus, Mary and Joseph stayed, and Christianity flourished, prior to the Islamic invasion. The area encompasses the Babylon Fortress the Coptic Museum, the Hanging Church, the Greek Church of St George amidst many other historical sites. 

This afternoon embark on a Women of Egypt Food & Shopping Tour

The Women of Egypt Food and Shopping Tour celebrates diversity by exploring culinary delights and shopping, offering a leisurely experience that fosters deep connections with the inspiring stories of the remarkable women behind Downtown Cairo's vibrant food scene. Through curated visits to female-owned restaurants, the tour highlights the personal and professional journeys of culinary pioneers from diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds. This experience goes beyond food, inviting you to discover female-owned local brands that showcase Egyptian culture and traditions while contributing to the economic empowerment of women and the preservation of Egypt's rich cultural heritage.   

Dinner is included this evening at your hotel.

Day 11 - Mon 18 May: Cairo (B)

Two group departure transfer times are available to the airport, including one early and one mid-morning. Alternative private transfers can be arranged if required.

Tour Price: $9,350 per person twin share (subject to change)

Tour Inclusions:

  • Fast Track meet and assistance prior to immigration at Cairo Airport

  • Egyptian visa on arrival (offer valid for NZ, Australian, UK, USA & Canadian passport holders). Other nationalities on application

  • Personally hosted whilst in Egypt by Egyptologist Amira

  • Return Airport to hotel transfers

  • Local representative airport assistance in Cairo, Luxor & Aswan

  • Check in assistance on Day 1 into Cairo hotel

  • Accommodation in Deluxe class hotels (2N Cairo Hyatt Regency West; 1N Hilton Luxor; 3N Sofitel Gezirah Hotel Cairo with daily buffet breakfasts

  • 4-night Nile cruise on a Deluxe ship, Movenpick Royal Lily, All meals on the cruise (4, breakfasts, 4 lunches & 4 dinners)

  • Welcome dinner on Day 1

  • Dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the pyramids, on Day 2

  • High Tea at the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel on Day 7

  • Dinner at hotel in Luxor on Day 3

  • Dinner at Sofitel Gezirah Hotel Cairo on Day 8 and Day 10

  • All touring and transfers in air-conditioned transportation

  • Private English-speaking female Egyptologist in Cairo and Luxor

  • Cairo sightseeing including:

    • Pyramids & Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum

    • Memphis & Sakkara

    • Women of Egypt Food & Shopping Tour in Cairo on Day 10

  • Upgraded VIP Valley of the Kings ticket to include the tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI

  • Sightseeing on the Cruise with your Egyptologist guide

  • Activities & entrance fees as per the itinerary

  • Economy Class domestic flights (Cairo/Luxor and Awan/Cairo)

  • Porterage

  • Bonus: All Tipping and gratuities for guides, drivers and transfers included for all included activities

Tour Exclusions:

  • International airfares

  • Travel insurance (compulsory)

  • Tipping/Gratuities (for non-included optional activities)

  • Personal expenses

  • Meals not specified or hotel / cruise minibar

  • Optional sightseeing or activities

  • Afternoon transfer on Day 11 to Cairo Airport

  • Check in prior to 2pm

  • Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above

Step into the footsteps of ancient civilizations and legendary figures as you embark on a captivating privately guided seven-day journey through Jordan. This land of timeless wonders unveils the awe-inspiring legacy of the Nabateans, Saladin, Hadrian, and Lawrence of Arabia, offering an adventure through history, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Tour can be booked in conjunction with the Ancient Egypt and the Nile in Style Women-Only Egypt tour. If combining the two tours a flight Cairo-Amman needs to be added at an additional cost (best flight RJ504 1405/1535) or the tour can abe taken as a stand-alone tour.

Small Group Women-Only Tour

Guaranteed Small Group Tour (min 2 / max 16 passengers)
7 Days Amman - Amman

Departs: 18 May 2026

Highlights:

  • 24/7 local operator support in Jordan

  • Meet & assist prior to immigration with Jordan visa on arrival

  • See the Rose Red City of Petra emerge in front of your eyes as you walk through the Siq entranceway, a narrow canyon with walls up to 597 feet high in places

  • Explore surreal, otherworldly beauty of Wadi Rum’s vast desert, a landscape so alien it was used as the backdrop for the movie The Martian

  • Experience the unparalleled sensation of floating effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, whilst based at the deluxe beachfront Movenpick Hotel

Day 1 - Mon 18 May: Amman

Welcome to Jordan. Upon arrival at Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport, you will be greeted by our local representative, PRIOR to immigration, who will assist you with arrival formalities including your pre-arranged visa. After a warm welcome, you will be transferred to your hotel in Amman.

Day 2: Tue 19 May: Amman - Jerash - Ajloun - Amman (BD)

Today, explore the Roman ruins of Jerash and Ajloun. Depart your hotel in Amman to visit Jerash, widely regarded as one of the most beautifully preserved cities in the world, nestled at the bottom of a green valley. Start the tour from the “South Gate” into the “Oval Plaza”, continue your way down through the “Street of Columns” until you reach the “Arch of Triumph” built on the honour of Emperor Hadrian in 129 AD. This afternoon, visit the castle of Ajloun located on a high peak overlooking the city of Ajloun. According to Salah-Eddin biographer, this castle was built between 1184 and 1185 by one of the Salah-Eddin nephews, to oppose the Crusaders castles of Kerak and Shobak. Later this afternoon return to Amman. This evening dinner is included at your hotel.

Day 3: Wed 20 May: Amman - Madaba - Mt Nebo - Kerak - Petra (B)

This morning, depart Amman and journey along the historic King's Highway, one of the world’s oldest trade routes, toward Petra. This scenic drive offers a glimpse into Jordan’s rich past, with stops at key historical sites. In Madaba, marvel at the 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, a stunning relic of Byzantine craftsmanship. Continue to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have gazed upon the Promised Land, and take in the breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley. Next, explore the imposing Kerak Crusader Castle, a 12th-century fortress showcasing medieval military architecture. Arriving in Petra, discover the legendary “Rose City,” a marvel carved into vibrant sandstone cliffs. Once the thriving capital of the Nabataeans, Petra remained hidden for centuries until its rediscovery in 1812. To truly appreciate its grandeur, visit in the soft light of morning or late afternoon, when the rock formations glow in shades of red and gold.

Day 4: Thu 21 May: Petra (B)

This morning, embark on an unforgettable journey through Petra, the ancient Nabatean city carved into rose-red cliffs. Enter through the dramatic Siq, a narrow canyon with towering rock walls, leading to the breathtaking sight of El Khazneh—the Treasury—one of Petra’s most iconic landmarks. With a local guide, explore the city's fascinating rock-cut tombs, temples, and monuments, including the impressive 3,000-seat Roman-era theatre and the grand Palace Tomb, reflecting classical architectural influences. After the guided tour, spend the remainder of the day at leisure to explore Petra at your own pace.

Optional: Hike up to the Monastery for panoramic views, wander through the ancient colonnaded streets, or simply soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere of this lost city, where history and mystery blend seamlessly with the stunning desert landscape.

Optional (supplement applies): Petra by Night @ 8:30 pm
Experience the magic of Petra by Night, as thousands of candles illuminate the ancient Siq and Treasury. Experience Bedouin music and storytelling in this unforgettable, atmospheric journey through history and legend.

Day 5 - Fri 22 May: Petra - Little Petra - Wadi Rum (BD)

Departing Petra, make a short stop to view the rugged landscapes of Little Petra, a hidden gem showcasing Nabatean architecture in a more intimate setting. Wander through its narrow Siq, ancient dwellings, and carved facades before continuing south to the breathtaking desert of Wadi Rum. This vast, otherworldly expanse, often called the "Valley of the Moon," was once traversed by Lawrence of Arabia and his Arab liberation army. Upon arrival, embark on a thrilling 4WD adventure, navigating with a local driver, off road through towering sandstone mountains, deep canyons, and rolling dunes sculpted by time and wind. Witness ancient petroglyphs etched into the rocks and experience the raw beauty of this untouched wilderness. As the sun casts golden hues over the desert, immerse yourself in the silence and vastness of Wadi Rum, a landscape so surreal it feels like stepping onto another planet. A truly unforgettable desert experience awaits. Dinner this evening is included at your overnight Tented Camp.

Day 6 - Sat 23 May: Wadi Rum - Dead Sea (BD)

Depart Wadi Rum and journey north through the striking landscapes of Jordan, arriving at the legendary Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Nestled in the Jordan Rift Valley, this remarkable body of water stretches 75 kilometres in length and is renowned for its high salt and mineral content, nearly ten times saltier than the ocean. With no outlet and a rapid evaporation rate, the Dead Sea's waters create a unique, buoyant experience—floating effortlessly on its surface is a must-try sensation. The mineral-rich mud is famed for its therapeutic and skin-nourishing properties, a natural spa treatment enjoyed since the time of Herod the Great. Arrive at the Movenpick Hotel, located on the shoreline of the Dead Sea. Spend the afternoon at leisure, soaking up the serene atmosphere, exploring the shoreline, or indulging in a revitalizing mud bath. The Dead Sea offers a one-of-a-kind experience, combining relaxation, history, and breathtaking natural beauty. Watch the spectacular sunset followed by dinner at your hotel.

Day 7 - Sun 24 May: Dead Sea - Amman Airport (B)

Today you will be transferred to Amman Airport for your onward flight.

Tour Price $3,695 per person twin share (subject to change)

Tour Inclusions:

  • 24/7 local operator support in Jordan

  • Meet and assist prior to immigration with Jordanian visa on arrival (valid for NZ and Australian passport holders)

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers

  • Professional local guide throughout the tour

  • 5 nights’ accommodation in hotels as specified (or similar)

  • 1 nights' accommodation in desert camp

  • Daily breakfasts

  • Dinner in Amman on Day 2

  • Dinner at Wadi Rum on Day 5

  • Dinner at the Dead Sea on Day 6

  • Daily mineral water inside the vehicle

  • Transfer and transportation in private air-conditioned vehicle with English-speaking driver as per itinerary

  • Entrance fees

  • Short horse ride inside Petra

  • Entrance fees as mentioned in the program

  • Bedouin jeep tour ride for 2-hours in Wadi Rum

  • VAT taxes

Tour exclusions:

  • International airfares

  • Optional tours and excursions

  • Porterage

  • Tipping/Gratuities (please prepay USD100 for tor tipping)

  • Personal Expenses

  • Departure taxes

  • Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges

  • Visas (unless specified)

  • Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above

Interested?