Best of Upper and Lower Egypt in Two Weeks Itinerary

Certain experiences leave an indelible imprint on our memories, and our 17-day private tour through Jordan and Egypt is poised to be one such experience. Our journey, meticulously crafted by our travel agency, a Cairo-based tour operator we found via Zicasso, unfolded into an exciting adventure that transcended temporal boundaries. This journey gave us the liberty to delve into the ancient lands, their rich civilizations, and grand dynasties at our leisure, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in every mesmerizing moment. Our venture to Jordan and the land of the pharaohs was nothing short of a truly wonderful experience.

If Petra, the mesmerizing ancient city carved into the rose-red cliffs, left us awe-struck, then Karak Castle, the crusader fortress with its dungeons and secret passages, evoked a sense of timeless intrigue. The castle’s rugged stone walls whispered tales of a storied past, while bathing in the salty waters of the Dead Sea was an epic experience.

Cairo is the dominant center of lower Egypt. It is a city with over 1,000 years of history that is an enigmatic metropolis where the past and present coexist, creating a captivating tapestry of culture and heritage. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of the 700-year-old Khan El-Khalili Bazaar and ascend to the Saladin Citadel, where you’ll marvel at the magnificent Muhammad Ali Mosque, an architectural mastery, with its alabaster domes reaching towards the sky. Alternatively, embark on an evening cruise along the majestic Nile River, where you’ll discover a skyline full of 20th-century skyscrapers juxtaposed against timeless minarets. And if you venture just a few miles southwest of the city, against the backdrop of the desert, you’ll come face to face with the 4,500-year-old Giza pyramids, guardians of the pharaohs’ mysteries.

Upper Egypt is also steeped in beauty, history, and ancient wonders. From the southern reaches of the country to Luxor and beyond, majestic temples and relics of the pharaohs and ancient Egyptian civilization adorn the banks of the Nile River. These monuments stand sentinel along the river and their weathered stones tell stories of grandeur, rituals, and the eternal quest for immortality. That is why you cannot visit Egypt and not see Upper Egypt. You cannot visit Upper Egypt without seeing the temples of Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, Edfu, or Philae. Each one of these temples has its mythical origin and unique bond with the divine.

Luxor remains the apex of our Egypt trip. It is an archeological treasure trove where temples, tombs, and monuments reveal the art, rituals, and beliefs of ancient Egypt. If you are visiting Luxor and desire to see its glorious past, you should plan to visit at least the following sites: the Valley of the Kings, where the pharaohs’ tombs are decorated with beautiful hieroglyphs that tell stories of transition to the afterlife; the temple of Hatshepsut, a breathtaking monument with its magnificent terraces and towering columns that stands as a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Egypt; or the majestic and enduring two-mile-long avenue of the sphinxes that connects two of the most iconic temples in Luxor and probably all of Egypt – the graceful and grand Temple of Luxor and the colossal architectural marvel of the great Temple of Karnak.

If you are interested in learning more about what made our journey extraordinarily delightful and unforgettable, read the testimonial below. These instances exemplify the exceptional service provided by our tour operators and reaffirm our decision to engage them on our next adventure in this part of the world.

Tour Co-ordinator: During the planning phase of our trip, we were fortunate to collaborate with our tour co-ordinator. He proved to be a true asset. Attentive to our preferences, he tailored itineraries and guaranteed our comfort at every stage of the journey. His commitment to our satisfaction was so profound that he made adjustments while we were in Egypt, ensuring our experience was thoroughly enjoyable.

Seamless Organization: While Cairo’s traffic may resemble “organized chaos”, our travel agents operate with the precision of a finely tuned machine. Everything proceeded without a hitch, from the instant we touched down in Amman or Cairo. They had every minutia thoughtfully orchestrated. Transfers, visas, and logistics were executed flawlessly, enabling us to concentrate solely on relishing our vacation. The journey was hassle-free, affording us abundant time and energy to immerse ourselves in the profound history and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Hotels: Our accommodations were in iconic hotels that epitomized luxury. These hotels were strategically located either along the banks of the majestic Nile River or, as in Aswan, on Elephantine Island, nestled in the heart of the Nile. Each location offered us a breathtaking view of the enchanting Nile River, often including the sunrise or sunset, and serving as delightful reminders of our truly magical vacation. After days of exploration, our hotels felt like tranquil oases of comfort.

Tour Guides: Throughout our journey, our agents consistently delivered exceptional service. Each day, we enjoyed the comfort of a spacious air-conditioned vehicle, including an experienced driver and an Egyptologist or a historian. Whether we were exploring the ancient wonders of Petra, standing in awe on the iconic Giza Plateau in Cairo, immersing ourselves in the vibrant city of Alexandria, or traversing the mystical landscapes of Upper Egypt, our drivers maintained impeccable vehicle cleanliness.

Our guides in Jordan, Lower Egypt, and Upper Egypt were more than courteous and engaging professionals; they were true storytellers. With a great sense of humor and a deep understanding of history, they masterfully wove together historical facts and gripping narratives about the Nabataean civilization, Ancient Egypt, and the pharaohs’ dynasties. Their fascinating storytelling made our trip informative and enjoyable.

Turkey was a good trip but I would do some things differently.  See below the next chapter.

My travel company/ Egypt

I have just returned from 12 day private tour in Egypt as a solo traveler. This was an experience of a life time and I'm a seasoned traveler who's been to 53 countries thus far. I've first approached Zicasso here in the US who connected me with an account sales manager at this travel company in Cairo. The travel agent was attentive from the very beginning. I told him, I'm not the typical tourist who only wants to see antiquities but rather I would like the experience of Egypt with seeing the countryside and the way they live and the opportunity to meet people. I"m mostly interested in history and cultures. He deigned a tour for me which we have modified several times to my satisfaction. He was patient with me despite my changes as he wanted to make sure that I get what I wanted. I was greeted at the airport by my tour leader in Egypt and my contact person throughout. He was polite, friendly, pleasant and professional who went beyond to make sure that my trip is successful. He was thorough with all the details of my trip and worked extra hours to get me a permit to visit the synagogue in Alexandria. Unfortunately, despite the permit, I couldn't go in as the synagogue was going through some serious renovation. Also, he made sure I got a Nile view room at my hotel as I've requested even though the hotel was booked during the end of Ramadan. I was 12 days in Egypt and saw most everything from Cairo, The Nile Cruise with Luxur, Aswan and Abu Simble. My guides, who were egyptologist were superb. My guide in Cairo was very knowledgeable and pleasant and answered all my questions about history and current events and was kind enough to take many pictures of me, leaving me with tons of memories. My driver always kept the car clean and made sure there was always cold water for me. He was pleasant and friendly and maneuvered the traffic in busy Cairo quite safely and professionally. In the South, My guide guided with much passion and knowledge. He knew how to tell the ancient stories in a lively and interesting manner that you could actually imagine being there. This was one successful trips, carefully designed and executed by the professional staff at this travel agency. I highly recommend them and would not hesitate to use them again. Shookran! Thank You!

Our travel agency did a fabulous job with our trip to Egypt and Jordan. When we stepped off the plane in Cairo, our agent was at the gate with our visas. We whisked through customs in no time. It was a great start to a memorable trip.

Our first hotel was disappointing. Its website suggests a hotel from a by-gone era. In reality, it is a new Marriott. It was clean, safe, well kept, and literally across the street from the pyramids. The staff was wonderful, but it was not what we hoped it would be. Food was mediocre.

We had a great guide who accompanied us throughout our stay in Egypt. He was knowledgeable, personable, and just plain nice. He was a great ambassador for Egypt who was a pleasure to spend a week with. He was punctual, and patient. He provided great knowledge about ancient Egypt with a passion for his country’s heritage. He did an excellent job.

The hotel in Aswan was splendid. It exceeded our expectations. The location was beautiful. The food was very good. The restaurant was a bit stuffy especially when nearly denying admission because I wore hiking shoes. The food was very good, not great, but the room was great.

Next stop was the hotel in Luxor. It was well located, and had a great staff, but it was not quite as good as Aswan. Nonetheless, there is no question that we would stay there again. Luxor is an unbelievable place. The Valley of the Kings was awesome, but there is no better site than the tomb of Queen Nefertari. The murals defy description.

Alexandria was next up on the journey. The accommodation was a great hotel. The citadel and library were worth a day trip. The city itself had an edge, an impression that no doubt resulted from the 2 fist fights we saw during our afternoon there. We, however, never felt threatened there or anywhere in Egypt. Americans need to ignore that suggestion that the wonderful country is unsafe. It is safe, welcoming, and hospitable. Go to Egypt. You won’t be disappointed.

We next traveled to Jordan for 4 four days. What a place. We stopped at Mt. Nebo on the way to Petra, which defies description. You need to be in shape to enjoy all that Petra offers unless you decide to ride a donkey to the monastery. We hiked it-13.9 miles and 138 flights of stairs. There is a lot to see, and the view from the cliffs overlooking the Treasury is stunning, and quite steep. Petra by night was a dud. We spent 2 nights at the Movenpick on the recommendation of friends. it is a great choice at it is immediately adjacent to the entrance to the Petra. 

Wadi Rhum was next on the agenda. We spent a few hours with our guide whose Bedouin family was wonderful. The area is beautiful. It is no easy to understand by T.E. Lawrence loved the country after touring here. Next time we will stay at least at night here.

We then traveled back to Amman where we stayed at the resort which was great. I realized that I forgot my coat at Petra, but our driver and city guide, made a call to a fellow guide who brought it back to Amman with him; just one of those little things that distinguish a really good tour company. He took us on a great trip through downtown Amman at night. Once again, not a worry about security. We sat outside waiting in line at Habibahto sample kanafehwhen a couple of middle aged guys struck up a conversation with us, another example of how people throughout our trip were genuinely friendly. Our last day in Jordan was highlighted by a day trip to Jerash. Do not miss it. Our guide was great, and took extra time to be sure that we saw everything.

The owner of the Maryland based tour company, put together a comprehensive, insightful, and undeniably memorable trip. His attention to detail was exceptionable. His integrity was evident when he deferred involvement in our last stop, Istanbul. He candidly acknowledged that he did not have a network established there. That he encouraged us to book this part of our trip with someone else speaks volumes for him.

Our agent's involvement did not end when we left Amman. Shortly after we arrived home we received shipment of a table that we purchased while in Jordan. It was not what we purchased, and not what we wanted. When he was informed of this problem, he immediately had his people in Jordan intervene. He was responsible for a full refund of the purchase price. He did not have to do that, but he felt it was his duty to do so. Trust us, as travelers who arrived in Kathmandu around 9:00 am. on April 25, 2015, we know the importance of a tour operator, and this agent is a really good one. 

Go to the Egypt and Jordan, and book with this travel company; you will not be disappointed. Go to Egypt and Jordan because they are safe, welcoming, and incredibly interesting. Don’t listen to naysayers who exaggerate dangers that are ubiquitous. It is a journey that will not disappoint.

Recently (November 29 - December 10), we took a fabulous tour with the travel company to Egypt and Jordan.  Everything the tour planner set up for us was absolutely first class. The people were so friendly and welcoming that we felt safe everywhere we went. We can’t say enough positive things about the job the tour planner and his people did for us, from helping choose the perfect time of year to go weather wise and crowd wise, to providing guides who know their stuff including what order to see things in.  Request Sam for your guide in Egypt if you want a special trip.  The tour planner did not miss the little touches like providing people to expedite us through the airports lines, to the carriage ride to an evening light and sound show at Edfu temple, to getting us business class seats for a nominal expense for all inter Egypt flights. Sailing on a felluca on the Nile made an relaxing afternoon just before we rode camels to a Nubian village that showed us there is more to Egypt than temples and tombs. We even got shopping opportunities with local craftsmen in between the major attractions. 

The tour planner really delivered on the major items like accommodations, food, and venues.  The hotel in Cairo, the hotel in Luxor, the hotel in Wadi Musa, and the Nile cruise were excellent choices as they represented the best each city had to offer. The hotel in Cairo was truly special even before they upgraded us to a luxurious suite.  Each place provided breakfast to go when we left early in the morning to go on our next adventure.  Sam took us to the three major burial places, ie the valleys of the Kings, Queens, and Nobles as well as many Temples. Our favorites included King Tut’s tomb, Karnak Temple, The Museum in Cairo, but going up inside the Great Pyramid in Giza made the trip. On a more modern note, the Library in Alexandria was exceptional, a must see.  The architectural beauty along with world class technology made this place my favorite. Lest we not forget, the natural beauty of Petra completed a bucket list item for us.

So if you have always wanted to see Egypt and Petra, strongly consider going with the travel company and you will not be disappointed.