- February 8 – February 11, 2023
- March 1 – March 4, 2023
- October 25 – October 28, 2023
- November 15 – November 18, 2023
- November 29 – December 2, 2023
- December 13 – December 16, 2023
About the Experience
Everything about Egypt is bigger than you can fathom. The mega temples, giant statues and jaw-dropper pyramids were built without the restrictions of reality.
It’s spices, sphinxes, statues. It’s a landscape that surprises from brown sugar sand dunes to cornflower salt lakes to jammed cities reverberating with car horns. The bazaars and markets hum with rehearsed barter and quick hands that bag aromatic turmeric and saffron at lightning speed.
Feel the lull of the Nile’s belly in a traditional Dahabiya boat as this itinerary cruises through the best of Egypt at a carefully measured speed designed for absorption.
We’ll immerse ourselves in all things royal and ancient in the shadows of the Queens, goddesses and female pharaohs before us.
Yes, you’ll see all the staples: the Giza Plateau (by camel!), the recumbent Sphinx, the Temple of Luxor, Abu Simbel! We’ll dig deep into the archives of several museums, keep company with an Egyptologist guide and observe the fossilized evolution of whales as they transform under our feet in the Valley of the Whales.
From the towering colonnades and obelisks to the pastoral Nubian countryside, we will follow the Nile’s gentle push to the High Dam to witness UNESCO’s incredible rescue effort and successful relocation of Abu Simbel and Philae Temple.
Though the intricate hennas will eventually fade from our palms, our time in the mystical embrace of Egypt will be indelible.
Did you know we’re a global leader in women’s adventure travel? Check out our destinations around the world!
About the Experience
Everything about Egypt is bigger than you can fathom. The mega temples, giant statues and jaw-dropper pyramids were built without the restrictions of reality.
It’s spices, sphinxes, statues. It’s a landscape that surprises from brown sugar sand dunes to cornflower salt lakes to jammed cities reverberating with car horns. The bazaars and markets hum with rehearsed barter and quick hands that bag aromatic turmeric and saffron at lightning speed.
Feel the lull of the Nile’s belly in a traditional Dahabiya boat as this itinerary cruises through the best of Egypt at a carefully measured speed designed for absorption.
We’ll immerse ourselves in all things royal and ancient in the shadows of the Queens, goddesses and female pharaohs before us.
Yes, you’ll see all the staples: the Giza Plateau (by camel!), the recumbent Sphinx, the Temple of Luxor, Abu Simbel! We’ll dig deep into the archives of several museums, keep company with an Egyptologist guide and observe the fossilized evolution of whales as they transform under our feet in the Valley of the Whales.
From the towering colonnades and obelisks to the pastoral Nubian countryside, we will follow the Nile’s gentle push to the High Dam to witness UNESCO’s incredible rescue effort and successful relocation of Abu Simbel and Philae Temple.
Though the intricate hennas will eventually fade from our palms, our time in the mystical embrace of Egypt will be indelible.
Did you know we’re a global leader in women’s adventure travel? Check out our destinations around the world!
DAY ONE: WELCOME
Plan to arrive at Cairo International Airport by 5pm. You will be greeted by our tour coordinator in the arrivals area and be shuttled to the rendezvous hotel to meet your Wild Women group. We’ll gather for an authentic welcome dinner to swap stories and anticipation with our Egyptian guide–a trusted female Egyptologist!
Meals Included: Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Mena House, Cairo
DAY TWO: GODDESSES OF EGYPT
We’ll start our day early with an engaging Egyptologist-led talk that will delve into the historic and contemporary lives of women in Egypt. We will learn about ancient goddesses like Isis. She was a revered mother, role model and magical healer who cured the ill and brought the dead to life. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, Queen Isis also taught the women of Egypt how to weave, bake and brew beer in her spare time.
We’ll hear about Hathor too–she was the polymath goddess of love, beauty, music, dancing, fertility and pleasure. She had priests and priestesses in her temple–Sinead O’Connor would approve. Fun fact: In her upstanding role as goddess of beauty, Hathor was the patron of cosmetics. Offerings of mirrors or cosmetic palettes was viewed as a form of worship to Hathor–in addition to wearing cosmetics of course!
We’ll also discuss legendary queens, like Hatshepsut, the sixth pharaoh of the 18th dynasty. She was one of the few (and by far the most successful) women to rule Egypt as pharaoh. At Deir el-Bahri (across the Nile from Thebes), Hatshepsut erected her magnum opus. The enormous memorial temple would guarantee Hatshepsut perpetual life after death. The temple is reached by navigating a series of terraced connades and courtyards–a complex that is the length of two and a half football fields!
We’ll learn about modern-day heroines too–the women who are playing an integral role in their communities and conquering challenges in the shadows and spirit of Isis, Hathor and Hatshepsut.
Later, we’ll experience the rush of being in the unearthly presence of the pyramids of Giza by camel! Our 30 minute ride on the noble, gently swaying “ships of the desert” will take us across the famed Giza Plateau towards the pinnacle–the pyramids.
We’ll also take pause (and a lot of selfies) in front of the Great Sphinx. The famous limestone lion’s body with a human head adorned in a royal headdress is one of the world’s largest sculptures. Measuring 73m(240ft) long and 20m (66ft) high, the Sphinx is among the world’s largest sculptures.
Today’s theme of WOW will continue as we drive to the oasis of Fayoum to spend time in the Tunis Village. It’s a crazy hilltop juxtaposition of landscapes here with views of a salt water lake and the desert’s arid edge. We’ll have the opportunity to check out the local pottery and learn about the unexpected evolution of it in Fayoum. Thirty years ago, Evelyn Porret, a Swiss potter, visited the village with friends and soon returned to buy a house and establish a pottery school. The ‘Swiss Lady’ and her workshops have had a giant influence on the area that has become synonymous with modern pottery, eco-lodges, an annual handicrafts festival and extreme birding opps.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Olive Tree Lodge, Fayoum
DAY THREE: VALLEY OF THE WHALES
Today we’ll make a beeline to Wadi El-Rayan National Park and the celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wādī al-Ḥītān or ‘Whale Valley’ in the Western Desert. This site is recognized internationally for its open-air museum and ability to learn about the evolution of whale skeletal development. Hundreds of fossilized whale skeletons, as well as tangles of mangrove roots and elaborate crab tunnels are now visible on the sand’s surface. We will take a short walk through the desert to admire the natural art and Evolution 101 lesson in one swoop. Be on high alert for the fossils of the youngest archaeocetes in the last stages of losing their hind limbs.
We will then continue to Wadi El Rayan National Park, where the desert’s brown sugar sands meet the surreal blue waters of the lake. This region is precious for its population of the endangered Slender-horned gazelle–one of the world’s few remaining herds. Though sightings are as rare as unicorns, the Dorcas gazelle, Fennec fox and Rüppell’s sand fox have been documented here. This landscape requires resiliency and adaptation–11 species of reptiles, 9 species of mammals and 13 resident bird species have been identified here.
After lunch and dessert in the desert (and maybe a fox sighting!), we’ll transfer to our hotel near the airport. Tomorrow we’ll fly to Luxor and have a full day of Egyptology 101 to immerse ourselves in.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Le Méridien Cairo (or similar hotel in Helipolis)
DAY FOUR: TOUR OF TEMPLES
Please note: The order of today’s itinerary will be dependent on the Cairo-Luxor flight arrival time.
Upon arrival in Luxor, we’ll explore the marvel of the Temple of Luxor with its towering obelisks situated alongside the Nile’s riverbank. Typical of real estate everywhere, there have been additions and adaptations since Amenhotep III’s original build in 1390-52 BC. The temple was completed by Tutankhamun and Horemheb and then added to by Rameses II (1279-13 BC).
We’ll also check out the Temples of Karnak, Egypt’s astounding compound of temples. Karnak, Luxor, the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queen were collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. Prepare to be completely floored by the grandeur of this temple!
The vast expanse of the hypostyle hall (which occupies the space between the third and second pylons) is one of the wonders of antiquity. It’s 5,000 square metres (54,000 square feet) of WOW decorated by Seti and Ramses II long before HGTV. Twelve enormous columns, nearly 24m (80ft) tall, support the roofing slabs of the central nave to permit light and transcendental light to enter through a clerestory (windows above eye level, if you haven’t watched a lot of HGTV).
There’s an afternoon option for a guided tour of the local museum and local market or you can strike off on your own and take in Luxor with a potent pot of sweet mint tea. Find a rooftop terrace and pinch yourself. You’re in Egypt! That’s the Nile!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Sonesta Hotel
DAY FIVE TO EIGHT: SAILING THE NILE
This morning we’ll tour the West Bank of Luxor, with visits to the tombs of the pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings and the tombs of the Princes & Queens in the Valley of the Queens. We’ll explore the mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut and tour the unbelievable Colossi of Memnon.
Later, we’ll drive 1.5 hours to Esna to board our floating home where we’ll dock overnight! We’ll spend four unmatched days sailing the mighty Nile on a traditional Dahabiya sailboat, 19th-century style! Under the power of sail we’ll take in stellar sunsets, Egyptian cooking lessons and impromptu chats about the country’s staples, spices and local affection for country music!
We’ll sail to Silsila and visit the enormous sandstone quarries. Our voyage will continue to the temple of Kom Ombo with its seemingly mile-high colonnades. On today’s agenda: we’ll experience local villages, tour energetic markets and meet rural women.
In Aswan, a fairytale of a town along the Nile, we’ll visit the vibrant spice market –it’s a sensory sensation! Here, we will have our hands artistically adorned with a traditional, intricate henna design.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Dahabiya Sailboat
DAY NINE: NUBIAN COUNTRYSIDE
In the morning, we’ll visit the controversial Aswan High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk and the Philae Temple. High Dam was an engineering miracle built in 1960 to protect Egypt from the predictable annual floods on the Nile. Sound familiar? If you read Anne Michael’s fictional The Winter Vault, you’ll understand the fine (and blurred) line between fiction and reality.
The Unfinished Obelisk demonstrates the ancient Egyptians’ stubborn techniques to cut obelisks. Located in a red granite quarry, the abandoned (and cracked) immortal obelisk would have measured 42m (137ft) making it the tallest obelisk in history. It would also have been the heaviest obelisk as well, weighing in at 1,200 tons. This obelisk is believed to belong to Queen Hatshepsut but many naysayers believe that it belongs to Queen Nefertiti.
Our final stop will be the majestic Philae Temple which was built in the honour of Isis. During the construction of the Aswan High Dam, UNESCO rescued the temple and transferred it block by block from its original site on Philae Island to Agilika Island, 12km (7 miles) south of Aswan.
In the afternoon, dazzled by Philae, we’ll take a bus ride to Nubia to check into our accommodation. Later, we’ll return to the temple to be magically transported back to the pharaoh era courtesy of the captivating Abu Simbel Sound and Light Show.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Nubian Guest House
DAY TEN: ABU SIMBEL
This morning, we’ll visit one of the grandest temples of ancient Egypt. Abu Simbel is the site of two extraordinary temples built by King Ramses II to impress his main squeeze, Ramesses II. The four super-sized statues of Ramses located in front of the main temple were also part of the exhaustive 1960s rescue mission. The temples were successfully salvaged from the rising waters of the Nile. Dam! As in, Aswan Dam! Make sure to spend some time inside the temples for they are awe-inspiring, and a highlight of the trip.
We’ll continue on to Aswan International Airport to board our domestic flight to Cairo. Sigh!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Steigenberger Hotel Tahrir Square
DAY ELEVEN: WALKING THROUGH CAIRO
Today we’ll visit the mind-boggling inventory of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. There are more than 10,000 pieces representative of every period of Egyptian history. Yes, there are even some treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb. We’ll check out Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church–also known as the Hanging Church. Built on top of the gate’s of an old Roman fortress, the 3rd century church was the first in North Africa. We’ll also visit Ben Ezra Synagogue (folklore suggests that this is where baby Moses was found) and the Saladin Citadel (the Cairo Citadel), the medieval beating heart of the Islamic world.
Islamic Cairo is characterized by hundreds of mosques, tombs, madrasas (colleges for Islamic education), mansions, caravanserais (an inn with a central courtyard for travelers in the desert regions of North Africa) and fortifications dating from the Islamic era. As we wander, we’ll grab an authentic lunch at a local restaurant and resume our exploration of the city in the afternoon.
In the cool cloak of evening, we may attend a local public performance if scheduling permits. Our farewell dinner will be close to the hotel at a trendy upscale restaurant. We will gather as the Queens and goddesses that we are for one last royal affair!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Steigenberger Hotel Tahrir Square
DAY TWELVE: UP AND AWAY
You can book a departure at any time today (airport transfer included)! Alternatively, you may wish to extend your stay and dig deeper into the deep pockets of Cairo! There’s the Khan Al-Khalili bazaar, The Cairo Cave Church (St. Simon “The Tanner”Monastery) or the Cairo Tower with its awesome 360s. Or, simply spend a few days finding the very best shawarma, lamb kofta kebabs, fiteer (Egyptian pancakes) or Om Ali (‘Ali’s mother’). The puff pastry layers soaked in milk are mixed with nuts, raisins, coconut flakes and sugar before being thrown into the oven to bake. Om, indeed.
And now, after becoming an honorary whale fossil expert, Islamic understudy, Dahabiya sailboat crew member and Egyptian Queen IQ trivia night knock-out player…where next?
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cravings For Kofta: HIGH
Click here to see upcoming trip dates to book your spot!
Highlights of Jordan Extension (4 Days)
Jordan is tightly-wrapped in mystical mystery–the enormous and ancient ruins are overwhelming. Everything is deeply-dug in yesteryear from the fragrant za’atar and sumac spices to the Bedouin camps and goat herds that pepper the dramatic landscape.
This trip delivers the classics: a hike to the knock-out birds eye view of the Treasury, an illusory candlelight tour of Petra and carefree floats in the saline Dead Sea.
Completely submerge yourself in the Jordanian culture on this existential extension!
What’s Included:
- Group airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- Awesome local, English-speaking female guide
- Ghostly Petra by Candlelight Tour
- 3 nights luxe accommodation at Old Village Resort and Crowne Plaza Jordan – Dead Sea Resort & Spa (or similar, based on double occupancy)
- 3 Instagram-worthy breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners
The Jordan extension aligns with the end of the Egypt Goddesses, Queens and Heroines tour. You will need to purchase your own flight from Egypt into Jordan on the last day of the tour. The extension begins at the airport where you will be picked up to start this new adventure.
Please contact adventure@wildwomenexpeditions.com to book!
Ahlan Wa Sahlan! Welcome to Amman, the uber modern capital of Jordan! You’ll feel the immediate embrace of the country’s deeply-carved history–it’s visible in the hillside juxtaposition of ancient ruins, stone amphitheater and contemporary buildings like the Jordan Museum (built in 2014 it’s touted as the best in the Middle East).
You will be met by a smiling Wild Women representative at the Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) and promptly transferred to your hotel in Petra while taking in the surprising and buzzing density of the largest city in Jordan. The journey to Petra takes 2 to 3 hours (250 km/155 miles), depending on traffic.
We’ll gather for dinner once we’ve checked into our hotel and revived a little. Tell your taste buds to fasten their seatbelts. You’ve now entered the land of falafel, fattet hummus, kofte (lamb or beef shish kebabs) and manakish (the local version of pizza), traditionally topped with golden olive oil and za’atar! Over dinner, we’ll discuss the beautiful days ahead.
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Old Village Resort (or similar)
After breakfast and perhaps an extra cup of sweet tea to stir the senses, we’ll strike off on a casual 1.6km (1 mile) guided walk down a narrow path sandwiched between the towers of rock. Today, we’ll crack open the secret of Petra (“Red Rose City”) at the entrance of a narrow cleft known as the Siq. The iconic view of Al Khazna’s (“the Treasury”) remarkable facade is glimpsed from here. It’s the single-most striking sight of the entire region so have your iPhone or camera charged and revved for a workout! The 40m (131ft) facade and the Corinthian columns, friezes, intricate carvings, echoey chambers and funerary urn are oozing with mysticism, graveyard ghosts and speculation.
Dizzy from amazement, we’ll embark on a slow and steady 3-hour hike up to a vista where we will have a birds eye view of the Treasury. This is where we can snap the million dollar selfie shot with one of the seven wonders of the world.
We’ll also see the old Roman road, amphitheater and several ancient tombs. History will surround and wow us in a way that high school history class never did! We’ll have free time after lunch to wander and wonder amidst the ancient Red Rose City.
Today’s lunch will be boxed but sometimes you gotta think outside the box!
We’ll return to our hotel early to late afternoon, depending on the group’s walking pace and selfie count. There will be time to chill out and reflect on the marvel of the Treasury. It’s impossible to not swipe through camera images taken just one hour before to confirm that yes, that really happened!
The afternoon is yours to design as you wish! Follow the fragrant wafts of Petra that permeate the streets to find a memorable snack and perhaps a few take-home spices to woo and tempt your future guests with!
Later, we will have the option of participating in the Petra by Night candlelight tour which begins at 8:30pm from the Petra Visitor Centre and finishes at 10:30pm. This event is a magical way to experience the old city by buttery candlelight. The tour involves walking the entire Siq to the Treasury which is aglow with over 1,500 candles.
Head’s Up: The Petra by Night experience will be dependent on availability as the tour only runs three days a week.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Old Village Resort (or similar)
After a filling breakfast (feeding our butterflies of anticipation), we’ll wake early and make our way to the site of Little Petra which is the starting point of the hike on the back trail that will loop us back to Petra. This 8km (5 mile) hike is referred to as the “back door to Petra.” The first half of the hike is flat but does become gradually steeper.
Upon arrival, we will meet with a local expert guide who will accompany us. The landscape today is ever changing from sandy plateaus to stone staircases. We’ll pass Bedouin campsites and random goat herds on our guided tour that will culminate at the Monastery. This impressive seven-storey structure has a doorway that’s 8m (26ft) high. Though less ornate than the Treasury, the sheer scale of this building painstakingly carved into a mountainside makes it an unmatched site. It’s believed that it was used as a temple by Christians in the Byzantine period.
We’ll then travel to the Dead Sea (settle in for a super scenic 3-hour ride) and make a gradual beeline for the shores of this famously salty-as-a-margarita sea. Did you know that it marks the lowest point on Earth (420m below sea level)? Technically, it’s not actually a sea at all–it’s really a super-salty lake and it’s been deemed ‘dead’ because of the lack of life in it.
The density of the water makes it easy to float in. Maybe this is where the expression “dead man’s float” stems from! Enjoy the carefree float and a carefree afternoon. Tonight you will have free time to explore and have one last edible Jordan experience!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Crown Plaza Jordan – Dead Sea Resort & Spa (Mövenpik Resort & Spa – Dead Sea for October 25th departure only)
After an indulgent and reflective breakfast, there may be time to squeeze in another indulgent float in the Dead Sea (depending on flight times). Or, maybe you’re planning on staying another day or two to absorb more of Jordan’s sights and sounds. If you are staying longer, organizing an independent transfer to the airport is easy–it’s a convenient 40-minute drive. For those who are heading home, we’ll transfer as a group to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) for big hugs and heavy-hearted goodbyes. (Your group departure transfer is included.)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The only unanswered question is, where next?
Additional Details
- You will need to purchase your own flight from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) please aim to arrive before noon on Day 1 of this extension.
- Arrive via Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) by Day 1 before 12 noon local time.
- Our Airport representative will meet you before immigration counters holding a sign. They will help to arrange a visa for you.
- The extension begins at the airport where you will be picked up to start this new adventure, and head to Petra!
- The transfer from the airport to the hotel in Petra is about 3 hours.
Group Rendezvous Point:
- Date: Day 1
- Time: TBD
- Location: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
If you are planning to stay in Jordan longer, we recommend that you book: Crowne Plaza Jordan – Dead Sea Resort & Spa or
- Date: Day 4
- Time: TBD
- Location: Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
There will be one group transfer provided based on the groups departure flights. Please feel free to stay longer on your own and enjoy the Dead Sea. Transfers from the hotel can be booked on request, the airport is approximately a one hour transfer.
- Rooming Arrangements
Our trip prices are based on a twin share (minimum two women per room/tent), so we’ll team you up with another solo wild woman to share with if you’re on your own, or of course, you can share with your travel partner. Single accommodations are available. Please email support@wildwomenexpeditions.com for your request.
- Internet / WiFi / Cell Coverage
Wifi available in hotels.
We recommend traveling with a universal adapter.
- Overnight Arrangements
Crowne Plaza Jordan – Dead Sea Resort & Spa
- Potable Water
In general, the tap water in Amman, Jordan, is not safe to drink.
If you would like to join Wild Women Expeditions in its commitment to reducing single-use plastic, you can travel prepared with your own water treatment system!
- Passport
Most countries and airlines recommend passports be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to your home country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Important: A copy of your passport must be emailed to the Wild Women Expeditions office by 130-days pre-trip.
- Visa
Most tourists can get a visa on arrival in Jordan depending on your nationality.
Some nationalities need prior permission. Please find the countries that need permission here.
Note: As fees and policies can change, we highly recommend that you contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent.
Hotel porters: $ 2+ per bag.
Airport porters $ 2+ per bag.
Restaurant waitstaff: $ 2+ per person per day.
Prices listed in USD
- Arrive via Cairo International Airport (CAI) by Day 1 before 5 PM local time. If you have the time it is recommended to arrive 1 – 2 nights before. It is not necessary, however, it allows you time to recover from jet lag and the time change.
- Approximately 30 minutes after you land and collect your baggage, go to the arrivals area and look for a sign saying “Wild Women Expeditions” and/or your name.
- Airport transfer from the airport to the first night’s hotel (or any pre-trip hotel you book if arriving early) is arranged through Wild Women Expeditions by adding your flight information and pre-trip accommodations to the Travel Details Form.
- Once you submit your Travel Details Form to us, we will review the rooming arrangements and work with the hotel to attempt to keep you in the same rooms from pre-trip to on the trip. This may not always be possible, so please be flexible to change rooms on Day 1.
Group Rendezvous Point Day 1
- Time: 7PM
- Location: Lobby of Mena House – Cairo
- Airport transfers are available all day. This transfer is included with your Wild Women Expeditions trip between the Steigenberger Hotel and the airport.
- If you are planning to stay in Egypt longer, we recommend that you book at the same hotel: Steigenberger Hotel, Tahrir Square.
- Once you submit your Travel Details Form to Wild Women Expeditions, we will review rooming arrangements and work with the hotel to attempt to keep you in the same rooms from during the trip to post trip. This may not always be possible, so please be flexible to change rooms on Day 12.
Drop-Off Point:
- Date: Day 12
- Time: Anytime in contingent with your flight
- Location: Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Megan and Zale | ****Now Boarding Travel SpecialistEmail: wildwomen@nowboarding.travelNote: Now Boarding Travel only provides services of 3-star quality or greater. For budget alternatives, please refer to the Lonely Planet guide for your destination.Important: For international and remote destinations, there is always the risk of flight delays, baggage delays and flight schedule changes which may cause late arrivals, which may, in return, result in you missing the group tour departure. For these reasons, we encourage you to consider arriving a day early, which will also help you overcome any jet lag from traveling!
- Passport
Most countries and airlines recommend passports be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to your home country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Important: A copy of your passport must be emailed to the Wild Women Expeditions office by 130-days pre-trip.
- Visa
Many nationalities including all Western European and Arab countries, USA, Australia, and New Zealand are able to obtain a one-month single entry visa online or upon arrival at Cairo International airport or at the Egyptian land border.
Here’s how:
A) Online: You can get the visa online in advance.
B) Airport: Follow the instructions below to get the visa upon arrival in Cairo.
Look for windows (marked “banks”) selling these visas in the area where you line up to have your passport stamped. You need to get a visa before entering the passport line. The visa is a sticker that you need to stick into your passport before handing it to the authorities for stamping.
The cost is approximately $25 USD or equivalent in EUR/GBP. All changes will be given to you in Egyptian Pounds.
Note: As of October 1, 2023, for some nationalities, such as Canadians, it is necessary to organize your visa before you travel. It is vital that you check the conditions attached to your particular passport and make the necessary arrangements in advance.
Canadian nationals visiting Egypt will need to obtain their visa prior to arrival. A Visa can be obtained either by visiting the Egyptian consulate in person or by mailing in your physical passport to either of the Egyptian consulates located in Ottawa or Montreal.
Note: Electronic visas for Canadians issued prior to October 1, 2023, will remain valid until their expiry date.
Here is a link to the entry requirements from Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/egypt#entryexit
Please apply for your visa as early as possible. Here is an infographic on the process necessary to obtain your Egyptian Visa.
https://wildwomenexpeditions.com/wp-content/uploads/Egypt-Visa-Application-Requirements.jpeg
You will need to fill out this application form to be submitted along with your passport:
Visa Application Montreal FINAL
You can now schedule your in-person appointment to get your entry visa to Egypt here:
Make and appointment
If you have a diplomatic passport, visas need to obtained in advance.
Host for Egypt Visa:
Great Wonders of Egypt
5A, El Hidaya ST. El Sifarat
Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.
(02) 2352 2571 / (02) 2352 2249
basem@greatwondersofegypt.com
If you would like additional assistance in securing your visa, we recommend you consider using the services of CIBTVisas: https://cibtvisas.ca/?login=WildWomenExp
- $15 USD per traveler per day for Dahabiya staff (which will be split amongst them).
- $11 – 20 USD per traveler per day for your Wild Women Expeditions guide. At the end of your trip, if you feel that your Wild Women Expeditions guide did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated.
- Rooming Arrangements
Our trip prices are based on a twin share (minimum of two people per room), so we’ll team you up with another solo wild woman to share with if you’re on your own, or of course, you can share with your travel companion.
- Private Upgrade
Single/private room upgrades are available for every accommodation (6 nights at hotels) except the sleeper train and dahabiya cruise boat and are subject to availability. Contact support@wildwomenexpeditions.com to request for an upgrade.
- Potable Water
Water is considered potable for the locals but not for visitors. When on the road, your tour leaders suggest you purchase larger (5L) water bottles to refill your personal re-useable water bottle. Purified water is provided at all accommodations.
If you would like to join Wild Women Expeditions in its commitment to reducing single-use plastic, you can travel prepared with your own water treatment system!
- Marriott Mena House
Experience the wondrous beauty of the Pyramids from Mena House, Cairo. A frequent stop for dignitaries and celebrities, this 5-star hotel offers travelers a taste of modern luxury. Set at the base of the Pyramids, hotel guests can walk to one of Egypt’s most popular attractions. Inside, relax in upscale hotel rooms with indulgent bedding, marble bathrooms and private balconies with fantastic views of the pool, gardens or the Pyramids. Take a dip in their outdoor pool, work out in the 24-hour gym, heal in the spa and indulge at their restaurants.
- Olive Tree Lodge – Fayoum
A peaceful, calm and green spot, less than 100 km away from Cairo, a splendind peaceful garden, located in a typical village of “Fayoum”, one of Churchill’s preferred places in Egypt. It has a unique Oasis-like view over the “Qarun” lake, surrounded by palm trees and agricultural land on one side and desert on the other side.
- Sleeper Train between Luxor & Cairo
The overnight train is a modern air-conditioned sleeper, with twin-berth beds. The sleeper train offers one type of cabin. It has 2 bunk beds, all cabins sleep max of 2 people. There is no shower in the cabin, but each cabin does have a sink. The shared toilet is at the end of each carriage. A basic airline-style tray meal for dinner and breakfast is included. Attendants can serve drinks in your compartment at extra cost or there is a bar car for socializing.
- Sonesta Hotel in Luxor
Enjoy a sweeping terraces with majestic views of the Nile and the short walk to the temples of Luxor and Karnak. All rooms feature well-appointed bathrooms, in-room business facilities and separate sitting area offering 5-star amenities which include: high-speed Internet access, city or Nile views, climate control, electronic door locks, hair dryer, direct-dial telephone, and digital safe. ATM, currency exchange, and laundry services are also available.
- Dahabiya Sailboat
Dahabiya is an Arabic word that means “golden boat”, describing the golden painted boats used by the pharaohs and nobility of ancient Egypt. Dahabeeyah’s today are built identically to the 19th century vessels to offer the old style luxury while taking advantage of modern comforts and techniques. They usually measure between 35-38 metres in length and 7-10 metres wide. Propelled by two Latin sails, this is a peaceful and relaxing way to cruise the Nile. Cabins have their own shower, wash basin and toilet.
- Nubian Guest House in Aswan
Located in Nubian village on the west bank of the Nile, opposite of the city of Aswan and overlooking the scenic first cataract. This charming little family-run guesthouse has Wifi and air conditioning, plus a beautiful view of the Nile from the rooftop terrace.
- Steigenberger Hotel in Cairo
The new Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir is ideally located at the heart of Cairo downtown. Within walking minutes to the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili and the Arab League building. The hotel offers modernly furnished rooms and suites. Free WiFi, 24-hour in-room dining, an all-day dining and a lobby bar. A swimming pool is on the second floor next to the fitness center.
Other People At Our Accommodations:
Yes, there will be other people at our hotels and on the night train. We will be the only group on the Dahabiya sailboat!
- Population: 95.7 million
- Size: 1.01 million km²
- Official Language: Arabic
- Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET) is UTC+02:00
- Electricity: 220-volt, 50-cycle AC with European-style sockets for two round pins
- Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
- Advisories – Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government travel advice information before departure.
- Valuables – We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while traveling, for the safekeeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home – you won’t need it while traveling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
- Traveling – A heavy security presence is observable throughout Egypt. Visitors and residents alike are requested to cooperate with Egyptian authorities. The tourist police department and the Ministry of Interior Security have to be informed of groups traveling in Egypt, which we arrange.
- Activities – When traveling on a group trip, please note that your guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your guide will accompany you on all included activities. While your guide will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.
- Protests and Demonstrations – Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.
- Water – Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our guides to make arrangements on your behalf for water-based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.
- Currency Exchange Offices & Banks
The official unit of currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP).
Please check online for current exchange rates. Wild Women Expeditions likes XE Currency Converter
We highly suggest you read this article: Where to Exchange Currency Without Paying Huge Fees for more information about this for your trip.
- Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
ATMs are found within main cities in Egypt.
- Credit Cards
Institutions will generally accept cards on the Visa and Mastercard networks. It is a great idea to travel with both a Visa and Mastercard if at all possible as while there is no hard and fast rule, some banks seem to only work with one brand of card. Please note, your bank will charge a fee for overseas withdrawals.
Increasingly, shops and restaurants accept credit cards and often prefer them to cash. The banks charge between 3% – 5% as commission for using credit cards. American Express credit cards are not very popular as the commission charge on it is 6%. The charge for Diners Club cards is 10%.
- Cash
Cash is recommended for times when ATMs are not accessible. Euros, British Pounds, and US Dollars are all easy to exchange for the local currency. Please note that you should bring some cash with you for emergency situations but carrying only cash is a high safety risk. ATM card/s and some cash is the ideal mix.
If you are bringing US Dollars, please make sure that the notes are new and in good condition. Notes older than 1996, or with any tears or blemishes may not be accepted. Be fussy with your bank when buying cash!
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional $200 USD (or equivalent) as an ’emergency’ fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change of our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
- Take every opportunity you can to be active.
You can improve your fitness a lot just by adopting some new habits; take the stairs at work, go for a walk at lunchtime, park your car away from work and walk. Aim for 30 minutes a day and keep a diary so you can look back on it and feel proud. These may sound trivial but they’re all building blocks!
- Rev up your ticker!
Think ‘interval training’, which means doing short bursts of high-intensity work with recovery time in between. Depending on how fit you are this can mean strolling with bursts of power walking, or jogging with sprints. Either way, the aim is to get your heart rate up.
- Join a local walking or running group.
This is a great way to get fit and you’ll also see new places, meet great people… and make them all jealous when they find out what you’re about to go on your travels.
- Warm up, cool down and stretch.
If you’re doing a workout then make sure you start and finish gently and stretch any tight muscles – this will help you avoid any aches, pains and pulled muscles. If you’re a member of a gym try some yoga, tai chi or pilates classes to build up your flexibility, stability and balance.
- Hydration.
When you suddenly ask your body to walk or be active, it needs a bit more fuel than it needs when, say, sitting at a desk all day! The main thing your body needs is water, so stay hydrated and practice sipping water often. Getting a water bottle or hydration bladder is a great way to make sure you have it on hand at all times. Make a habit out of taking a bottle of water with you wherever you go.
- Nutrition.
Eating little and often will keep your body well fuelled for outdoor exercise, especially food like nuts, dried fruit and bread. The odd bit of chocolate and a few boiled lollies are good for keeping your blood sugar levels up while you’re hiking as well!
- Have fun!
The most important point of all! You are about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. You’re going to meet some amazing people, see some wonderful places and create memories that will stay with you for life. The more prepared you are to tackle the various challenges, the more fun you will have. Also, with all the endorphins you create from all this training, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear! It’s a great way to boost your happy vibes.
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Starting At$6,895Deposit$995Duration12 DAYS
- 🇺🇸USD PRICEFOREIGN EXCHANGE FEES MAY APPLY
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RISK-FREE GUARANTEE!
Sign up now with a deposit to book your spot and it’s fully refundable for the first 7 days after your booking! This gives you a week to sort out flights, vacation time, your cat-sitter… and ensure that no one else takes your spot!IS THIS TRIP RIGHT FOR YOU?
This is an active adventure travel trip. You must be comfortable:
- Walking up and downhill, over uneven terrain
What's Included
- 8 nights in 4–5 star hotels and 4 nights on a traditional Dahabiya sailboat
- All in-country travel, including flights (Cairo-Luxor, Aswan-Cairo)
- Awesome expert Egyptologist female guide
- Stress-free airport transfers
- All entry fees to museums, temples and activities
- Optional private room upgrade, subject to availability (*including the Dahabiya cruise boat in 2024)
- Please note: Single rooms on the Dahabiya cruise boat are dependent on the group’s size for 2023 departures
- All applicable taxes are included in the trip price