Something went wrong. Please try again.

Maestro Jrnys

Exotic Egypt

Pyramids and Pharaohs with Rucksack Diaries

LED BY

Mouna Nanaiah

TRIP DATES

21 Apr 26 - 28 Apr 26

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 1,975

HISTORY

CULTURE

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Bookings Closed

Exotic Egypt: Pyramids and Pharaohs with Rucksack Diaries

TRIP DATES

21 Apr 26-28 Apr 26

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 1,975

Bookings Closed

About this Jrny

Egypt sets the stage for an adventure where history, legend, and everyday life collide in the most spectacular way. You arrive in Cairo, a city that never whispers when it can shout, and settle into its rhythm with time to soak in the views, the energy, and the unmistakable buzz of the ancient meeting the modern.

Cairo reveals its treasures layer by layer. Explore the Egyptian Museum and come face-to-face with King Tut’s glittering legacy, stand in awe before the Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, and wander from the step pyramid of Saqqara to the grand Citadel and Mohamed Ali Mosque. As evening falls, El Muiz Street and Khan El Khalili pull you into a maze of lights, aromas, and stories.

Aswan slows the pace in the most beautiful way. Visit the elegant Philae Temple, marvel at the Unfinished Obelisk, and drift along the Nile on a felucca before settling into life on a Nile cruise, where the river becomes your constant companion.

Sailing north, encounter the drama of Abu Simbel, the unique twin dedication of Kom Ombo, the mighty Temple of Horus at Edfu, and the glowing grandeur of Luxor by night. In Luxor, step into the Valley of the Kings, admire Queen Hatshepsut’s temple, and pause before the colossal guardians of Memnon.

Back in Cairo, with souvenirs in hand and memories etched deep, you round off this epic tale. Join this journey and let Egypt surprise you at every turn.

This journey blends adventure, history, and magic—join to discover Jordan’s extraordinary heart and soul. Led by Mouna Nanaiah, a passionate motorcyclist who lives for the thrill of the open road. Alongside her partner Shyam, she has ridden over 1 lakh+ kilometers across 24 states in India, riding through mountains, deserts, coastlines, and everything in between. Balancing a successful corporate career with a deep love for travel, Mouna is a strong advocate for women in motorcycling. Her story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to choose between a profession and a passion, you can live both - fully.

Highlights

Explore Cairo's Grand Egyptian Museum, King Tut’s treasures, the Great Pyramids, and the Sphinx.
Visit Aswan's Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, and enjoy a Felucca ride on the Nile.
Discover Abu Simbel's awe-inspiring temples of Ramses II and Nefertari.
Sail on Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor with stops at Kom Ombo and Edfu temples.
Visit Luxor's Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut’s temple, and Luxor Temple.
Shop at City Stars mall before heading home.

Inclusions

Meals as per itinerary

Boutique Stays

Airport Transfers

Internal Flights

English Speaking Guides

Entrance Fees and Permits

Maestro's Expertise

Led by Jrny Maestro

Mouna Nanaiah

Traveler on a Motorcycle

5 Jrnys

7 Happy Travellers

Overview

Dates

21Apr’26 - 28Apr’26

Suggested Ages

12+

Duration

8 days

Activity Level

moderate

Group Size

1 - 14

Travel Style

comfort

Price per person

$1,975

Itinerary

Tue 21 Apr

Arrival in Cairo

Wed 22 Apr

A Day in Cairo

Thu 23 Apr

Another day in Cairo

Fri 24 Apr

Cairo to Aswan on Nile Cruise

Sat 25 Apr

Aswan to Edfu on Nile cruise

Sun 26 Apr

A day in Luxor on Nile cruise

Mon 27 Apr

Luxor - Cairo

Tue 28 Apr

Depart Cairo

Stay

CHECK IN 21 Apr

3 N

CHECK OUT 24 Apr

Hilton Ramses

Cairo

CHECK IN 24 Apr

3 N

CHECK OUT 27 Apr

Blue Shadow

Nile Cruise

CHECK IN 27 Apr

1 N

CHECK OUT 28 Apr

InterContinental Cairo Citystars

Cairo

Your Daily Itinerary

Tue 21 Apr

Arrival in Cairo

Upon landing at the Cairo International Airport, we drive to your hotel. With the remaining day being free, head out and explore this sprawling historic city located near the Nile delta. Stroll through Cairo’s streets where the old and the ancient are at home with the modern and the metropolitan. Home to Ottoman landmarks like Muhammad Ali Mosque and the Grand Egyptian Museum, the capital city of Egypt is a trove of antiquities. Surrender to the city at your leisure today and don’t forget to sample some Egyptian delicacies as you embark on satisfying your palate in the evening, wandering through the city’s streets.

Overnight Stay in Cairo

Meals Included: None

Activities

Meet and Greet in Cairo

00:00 - 23:59

Arrive at Cairo International Airport (Airport code: CAI). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs, please look for JrnyOn representative holding a placard with your name. Proceed to your hotel in a pre-arranged transfer vehicle.

Duration: 40 minutes
Distance: 20 kms / 12.5 miles

Wed 22 Apr

A Day in Cairo

Get ready to be amazed as we journey into Egypt’s ancient past! After a buffet breakfast at the hotel, meet your Egyptologist for a full-day excursion. Start at the Grand Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, home to an extensive collection of artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s treasures. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant (not included) before heading to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Explore their immense structures and uncover their historical significance with your guide. Return to the hotel in the evening for dinner.

Overnight Stay in Cairo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Grand Egyptian museum

09:00 - 12:30

The Grand Egyptian Museum is one of the most renowned museums in the world, and houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, with over 120,000 items, including mummies, sarcophagi, jewellery, statues, and the treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun, such as his iconic gold mask. The museum offers visitors a profound insight into one of the world’s most influential ancient civilizations.

Lunch at local restaurant – Egyptian Cuisine

12:30 - 13:30

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Egyptian cuisine. Delight in fragrant spices and traditional dishes like koshari, grilled kebabs, or fresh falafel. Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality that make Egyptian dining a true cultural experience.

Pyramids of Giza

14:00 - 16:00

Explore the most iconic ancient structures in the world - ancient 4000-year-old Pyramids. The Pyramid of Khufu is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex. Reflect upon the Egyptians’ advanced understanding of architecture, mathematics, and astronomy, while taking in the grandeur of one of Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Sphinx

16:00 - 17:30

The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most famous and mysterious monuments in the world. A colossal limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human, it is believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre. The Sphinx remains an enduring mystery and continues to fascinate historians, archaeologists, and visitors with its enigmatic expression and ancient grandeur.

Thu 23 Apr

Another day in Cairo

Dive deeper into Cairo’s layered past as the city reveals its most iconic chapters. Begin at Sakkara, where history takes its earliest monumental form. Stand before the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world’s oldest large-scale stone structure, and explore ancient tombs etched with remarkably preserved carvings that offer glimpses into daily life of the Old Kingdom. Shift from antiquity to grandeur at the Citadel of Saladin, rising above the city with commanding views.

Step inside the Mohamed Ali Mosque and admire its vast domes, alabaster walls, and serene interiors that dominate Cairo’s skyline. Pause for a relaxed lunch at a local restaurant, savouring authentic flavours and a moment to recharge. As afternoon unfolds, wander along El Muiz Street, an open-air museum of Islamic architecture lined with historic mosques, gates, and palaces.

Let the energy build at Khan El Khalili market, where narrow lanes brim with spices, lanterns, jewellery, and animated bargaining. Absorb the sounds, scents, and colours that define Cairo’s soul. Evening remains free, allowing dinner on your own and time to reflect on a day rich with contrasts, stories, and unforgettable impressions.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Activities

Sakkara or Saqqara

09:00 - 12:00

Saqqara, also spelled Sakkara or Saccara, is Egypt's oldest pyramid. Built for Pharaoh Djoser around 2670 BCE, it is the first large-scale stone structure. Saqqara is the largest archaeological burial site in the country. It is most important cemetery of Memphis, one of the most important cities in ancient Egyptian history.

Visit the Citadel and Mohamed Ali Mosque

12:00 - 14:00

The Citadel of Saladin and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali are among the most iconic landmarks in Cairo, Egypt, showcasing both the rich history and architectural beauty of the city.

Lunch at local restaurant – Egyptian Cuisine

14:00 - 15:00

Visit of El Muiz Street

15:00 - 17:00

Step onto El Muiz Street as medieval Cairo unfolds. Wander carved façades, mosques, and madrasas, feel the pulse of old trade routes, and you sense history alive in every lantern-lit stone.

Khan El Khalili local market

19:00 - 21:00

Khan el-Khalili is a famous and historic bazaar located in the heart of Cairo, dating back to the 14th century. It is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, narrow alleyways, and a wide variety of goods, including traditional Egyptian handicrafts, jewellery, textiles, spices, and souvenirs. The market also features traditional coffeehouses and restaurants, making it a lively hub for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into Cairo’s rich cultural heritage and daily life.

Fri 24 Apr

Cairo to Aswan on Nile Cruise

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, visit Aswan’s key sights, including the impressive High Dam, the beautiful Philae Temple, and the intriguing Unfinished Obelisk. Board your Nile Cruise, enjoy a delicious lunch, and later unwind on a scenic Felucca ride at sunset. The evening is yours to relax, with dinner served on board.

Overnight in Nile Cruise

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Cairo to Aswan on Nile Cruise - Day 4 image

Activities

Cairo Hotel to Airport

05:00 - 05:30

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to Cairo airport (airport code: CAI)

Duration: 40 minutes
Distance: 20 kms / 12.5 miles

Fly Cairo to Aswan

06:00 - 08:00

Fly from Cairo to Aswan and swap the bustling capital for the serene beauty of the Nile’s southern reaches. As you descend, take in stunning views of the desert meeting the river. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in Aswan’s rich history, vibrant markets, and breathtaking riverscapes.

Flight Duration: 1 hour 25 minutes

Philae temple

09:30 - 10:00

The Temple of Philae is dedicated to the goddess Isis and was a significant religious center in ancient Egypt. Originally constructed during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods, the temple was relocated to its current site to save it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam and is renowned for its stunning reliefs and historical importance.

Unfinished Obelisk

10:00 - 11:00

The unfinished obelisk is the largest known ancient obelisk and is located in the northern region of the stone quarries of ancient Egypt in Aswan, Egypt. Dating back to the 18th Dynasty, around 1500 BCE, it was intended to be a massive granite obelisk dedicated to the Pharaoh Hatshepsut or Thutmose I, but was left incomplete due to a crack discovered in the stone.

Check-in into Nile Cruise

11:00 - 12:00

Check in on your Nile Cruise. The Nile River Cruise is the best way to see the incredible ruins of ancient Egypt and modern life along the banks of the Nile. The cruise takes us through the heart of Egypt as we cruise between Luxor, Edfu, and Aswan.

Lunch on board Nile Cruise

13:00 - 14:00

The restaurant has all kinds of dishes, oriental, western and vegetarian dishes, all served in an open buffet style.

Felucca ride on the Nile

17:00 - 18:00

Felucca Ride is a magical activity to witness the beauty of Aswan. Surrounded by amazing scenes, you will have a relaxed evening enjoying the river breeze. This traditional wooden sailing boat is made to only seat a handful, and offers a calmer, slower alternative to cruising the Nile in a noisy motorboat.

Dinner on board Nile Cruise

19:30 - 21:00

Besides enjoying the international cuisine, guests can enjoy traditional dance and music performances, relax and refresh in the spa, swimming pool, on the sun- deck, or in the comfort of their luxurious cabins.

Sat 25 Apr

Aswan to Edfu on Nile cruise

Start your day with breakfast before embarking on a journey to the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples, a marvel of ancient Egyptian engineering. Return to Aswan and enjoy lunch aboard your Nile cruise as you sail toward Kom Ombo. Explore the unique twin temple dedicated to Horus and Sobek before continuing to Edfu. End the day with a delightful dinner on board.

Overnight in Nile Cruise

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner

Aswan to Edfu on Nile cruise - Day 5 image

Activities

Drive to Abu Simbel temple

04:30 - 08:00

Journey to Abu Simbel, passing through the vast desert landscapes. Explore the majestic Abu Simbel temples, marvel at their colossal statues and intricate carvings.

Duration: 3.5 hours
Distance: 281 kms / 175 miles

Visit Abu Simbel Temple

08:00 - 10:00

Explore the awe-inspiring temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari, featuring colossal statues and intricate carvings. The Great Temple showcases Ramses II's grandeur, while the Temple of Hathor honors his queen.

Drive Abu Simbel temple to Aswan

10:00 - 12:30

After soaking in the grandeur of this UNESCO site, drive back to Aswan, reflecting on the ancient wonders of Egypt.

Duration: 3.5 hours
Distance: 281 kms / 175 miles

Lunch on board Nile Cruise

13:00 - 14:00

The restaurant has all kinds of dishes, oriental, western and vegetarian dishes, all served in an open buffet style.

Sail to Kom Ombo

14:00 - 17:30

Sail to Kom Ombo by Nile Cruise from Aswan.

Time Duration: 3.5 hours

Temple of Kom Ombo

17:30 - 19:00

Standing at a bend in the river Nile, the temple of Kom Ombo is among the Nile Valley’s most beautiful temples. Kom Ombo is unique in Egypt as a double temple—dedicated to two deities, Sobek and Horus. This“unusual double temple”located in the town of Kom Ombo, within the Aswan Governorate, one among the many administrative territories in Egypt, was constructed during the Ptolemaic dynasty. Though it is said to be completed between 180–47 BC, additions were made during the Roman period.

Sail to Edfu

19:00 - 01:00

Sail to Edfu after the visit to Kom Ombo. Edfu is an important archaeological site on the west bank of the Nile.

Time Duration : 5 Hours

Dinner on board Nile Cruise

19:30 - 21:00

Sun 26 Apr

A day in Luxor on Nile cruise

Start your day early with a visit to the Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples. At 7:30am, your cruise sets sail for Luxor, a serene nine-hour journey along the Nile. Enjoy lunch on board and relax as you glide past timeless scenery. Upon arrival in the evening, explore the majestic Luxor Temple. End the day with dinner on board before settling in for the night, surrounded by the charm of Luxor’s illuminated skyline.

Overnight in Nile Cruise

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

A day in Luxor on Nile cruise - Day 6 image

Activities

The temple of Horus

05:30 - 07:00

The temple is dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus, one of the most important deities in the Egyptian pantheon, associated with kingship, protection, and the sky. One of the best-preserved temples in Egypt

Sail to Luxor

07:30 - 16:30

Sail to Luxor from Edfu. Luxor is often referred to as the 'World’s greatest open-air museum'. This city is built on the site of ancient Thebes, which was the capital of Egypt during the height of the New Kingdom.

Time Duration: 9 Hours

Lunch on board Nile Cruise

13:00 - 14:00

The restaurant has all kinds of dishes, oriental, western and vegetarian dishes, all served in an open buffet style.

Visit Luxor Temple

18:00 - 19:00

The Luxor Temple is a large Ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile River in the city today known as Luxor and was constructed approximately 1400 BCE. In the Egyptian language it was known as ipet resyt, or 'The southern sanctuary'. Don't miss the long ceremonial road known as the Avenue of Sphinxes, lined with hundreds of statues of sphinxes.

Dinner on board Nile Cruise

19:30 - 21:00

Mon 27 Apr

Luxor - Cairo

Enjoy a delightful morning breakfast before checking out of your Nile Cruise. Explore the breathtaking tombs at the Valley of the Kings, marvel at the grandeur of Queen Hatshepsut’s temple, and stop for a photo by the towering Colossi of Memnon. After lunch at a local restaurant, head to Luxor Airport for your flight to Cairo. Upon arrival, check into your hotel near City Stars Mall, one of Cairo’s largest shopping hubs, offering a fantastic chance to pick up souvenirs and authentic Egyptian products.

Overnight Stay in Cairo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Activities

Valley of the Kings

08:00 - 10:00

The Valley of the Kings in Luxor is a vast ancient burial site, home to the tombs of pharaohs, including the famous Tomb of Tutankhamun. Carved into desert cliffs, these tombs are adorned with stunning murals depicting the pharaohs' journey to the afterlife.

Queen Hatshepsut temple

10:00 - 12:00

This unique, terraced temple was built for Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. The temple blends into the cliffs that rise behind it and is known for its striking architecture and detailed reliefs depicting Hatshepsut’s reign. Hatshepsut’s temple uses symmetry and terraces to create a sense of grandeur. This design was highly innovative for its time and influenced later temple construction.

Colossi of Memnon

12:00 - 14:00

The Colossi of Memnon are two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, standing on the west bank of the Nile River near Luxor, Egypt. These iconic statues have captivated the imagination of travellers and historians for millennia, and are one of the most recognizable landmarks of ancient Egypt. Unfortunately, the temple was mostly destroyed over time due to natural disasters, including earthquakes and flooding, leaving the two giant statues as the temple’s only surviving elements.

Lunch at local restaurant – Egyptian Cuisine

14:00 - 15:00

Fly Luxor to Cairo

15:00 - 18:00

Board a flight from Luxor to Cairo and enjoy a swift journey from the ancient wonders of Upper Egypt to the bustling capital. Soar over the Nile’s winding path before landing in Cairo, where vibrant markets and historic landmarks await your exploration.

Flight Duration: 1 hour 5 minutes

City Stars Mall

18:00 - 20:00

Check into your hotel near City Stars Mall, one of Cairo’s largest shopping centres. This is a perfect chance to browse for souvenirs and authentic Egyptian products, from handcrafted goods to local delicacies, before your journey home. Enjoy the convenience of nearby dining and entertainment options.

Tue 28 Apr

Depart Cairo

Enjoy a final breakfast before checking out of your accommodation. Take in the last glimpses of the Nile as you transfer to the airport for your journey home. Proceed to the international terminal for your final departure, carrying unforgettable memories of Egypt’s rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Depart Cairo

12:00 - 23:59

Today your JrnyOn journey comes to an end. You will be transferred to Cairo International Airport (Airport code: CAI), for your return flight home. Once on the flight, you can begin to plan for your next JRNY!

Duration: 40 minutes
Distance: 20 kms / 12.5 miles

Frequently Asked Questions

- You want to explore Egypt’s ancient civilisation through iconic monuments, temples, and museums.

- You are fascinated by pharaohs, hieroglyphs, and legendary sites like the Pyramids of Giza and Valley of the Kings.

- You enjoy guided cultural sightseeing with expert Egyptologists providing historical context.

- You would love a relaxed Nile Cruise experience with scenic sailing and visits along the river.

- You prefer a journey that balances history, comfort, and immersive experiences

- You enjoy exploring lively bazaars, historic streets, and local markets alongside major landmarks.

- International flights

- Visa fees (if applicable)

- Alcoholic beverages

- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, laundry, tips for guides and drivers)

- Camera/video charges during sightseeing

- Tips for guides and drivers

- Additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary

Your journey begins and ends in Cairo. You should arrive at Cairo International Airport (Code: CAI) and depart from the same airport at the end of the tour.

All foreign travellers will require a valid passport. The passport should have a validity for at least six months beyond the completion of travel. All travellers will require a visa for entry into Egypt. Visa on Arrival — Indian nationals can obtain a tourist visa on arrival for up to 30 days at Egyptian airports, processing takes place at the port of entry. Otherwise you can apply for e-visa at https://visa2egypt.gov.eg. It is recommended to check the latest requirements on the official Embassy website. Each passenger must be personally responsible for ensuring she/he possesses valid travel documentation.

Travel insurance is mandatory to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness or unforeseen late cancellations. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control. For those looking for an insurance supplier, we can recommend Insurance Nomads. Write to them at [email protected] with your Jrny details for insurance options.

No mandatory vaccinations are required. We advise you to check with your doctor in case you have any personal requirements. Also check with your local clinic or doctor a few weeks before the trip for any change in recommendations.

Yes, airport transfers are included in this tour. These transfers will be shared with you before your travel.

There are no activities scheduled for the first day. The standard check-in time at the hotel would be 1400 hours, and you can plan your arrival accordingly.

You can depart anytime. Generally, there are no inclusions on the tour on the last day. The hotel check-out time is usually 1100 hours or 1200 hours.

Children under 12 are not allowed on this Jrny. Children above 12 are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Normally, yes! In some cases if the exact hotels are unavailable for any reason, we'll make sure you're put up in hotels that are equivalent to the original in terms of location and facilities. Rest assured, your stay will be as promised.

Please read through the itinerary in detail to understand the intensity of the activities planned. There are some long walks scheduled. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 2 would be ideal.

The longest drive on this itinerary is from Aswan to Abu Simbel, which takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours each way. The rest of the journey includes flights and a scenic Nile cruise, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.

Absolutely, a variety of vegetarian meal options will be available. Vegan options may be limited but available.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

Egypt has a desert climate with warm days and cooler evenings. Cairo and Luxor can be hot during the day, especially in summer, while Aswan is generally warmer. The Nile cruise offers a refreshing breeze. We recommend checking weather.com before your trip for up-to-date forecasts and packing light, breathable clothing along with a light jacket for cooler evenings.

We require a 35% advance payment at the time of booking.

The remaining balance needs to be paid in full at least 60 days before the date of travel

We have the following cancellation terms for this tour:

65 days or less from the date of travel: 35% cancellation charges will be levied (as per the total trip cost), the rest will be refunded to you.

35 days or less from the date of travel: 100% cancellation charges will be levied.

Interested in Specific Dates or a Private Jrny?

Number of Adults

Number of Kids (under 12)

Preferred Travel Month

Additional Requests

Full Name

Email Address