From the creators of Escape to Shape: Adventures in Wellness comes Escape Artists Travel: Luxury Travel Advisors, ready to make all of your private travel dreams come true. Escape Artists Travel has teamed up with leading Egypt experts to bring you our Insider Escape: Egypt — ten nights of once-in-a-lifetime experiences as we explore this bucket list destination as a small group under the guidance of one of Egypt’s top Egyptologists.
So, What is an INSIDER ESCAPE?
Our transformative Insider Escapes offer the knowledge of our hand-selected expert guides & on the ground team, scheduled small group departures, exclusive behind-the-scenes access and thrilling immersion in destinations around the world.
The itinerary outlined below has been custom designed by us along with our trusted friends in Egypt. This is a highly curated itinerary that we look forward to sharing with a small group of 16 guests.
As always, we encourage fitness & wellness, but they will not be the focus on this trip. There will NOT be daily group fitness or yoga classes but many of the hotels we are staying at have gyms. Dietary restrictions will of course be accommodated.
With one third of all of the world’s antiquities and the only remaining monument of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Egypt is a superlative destination: astounding, colossal, epic. For thousands of years, travelers have journeyed from all over the world to witness the glorious temples built by the pharaohs. Now is the time to see it for yourself. Escape Artists Travel’s signature Insider Escape: Egypt itinerary is designed to offer exploration in Cairo and once-in-a-lifetime experiences at such monuments as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and King Tut’s Tomb—plus, we will voyage down the Nile River as the ancient pharaohs once did, now on a luxury boat decked out with modern amenities.
In the heart of Cairo on the banks of the River Nile, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza opens the door to discovering Egypt’s 5,000-year-old ancient mysteries, minutes away from the majestic pyramids, Egyptian museum, and 1,000-year-old market. The heartbeat of the Nile, Four Seasons provides a sense of discovery and excitement with views of vibrant Cairo, nine stellar dining experiences, and the most authentic spa in the city. Opulent, bright rooms offer the perfect blend of comfort, space, and style with triple-glazed windows to ensure quiet, deep soaking tubs, Wi-Fi, and views of the Nile or the 12th-century citadel.
From your private terrace at Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, watch feluccas as they sail past Elephantine Island. Most of the 138 rooms and suites offer Nile views; choose from the original Byzantine-style historic palace or the lavishly contemporary Nile Wing. Regally perched atop a pink-granite shelf, this Victorian-era hotel has been extensively renovated with French and Middle Eastern decor while still maintaining its period grandeur. Choose from six restaurants and bars, including the signature 1902 restaurant, serving nouvelle cuisine under a 65-foot dome. The So SPA is a wellness temple in the heart of Nubia.
Evoking the spirits of yore with the relevance of today, Historia exposes the scenery of fluttering and cream linen curtains on an aged wise deck; one with stories to tell and things that have been seen.
Roving throngs of eager and curious tourists marvel in the sensory delight of their surroundings; the majesty of ancient history, the lingering touch of the far-off past, and the undeniable influence of the present.
Historia draws on the element of the legendary boat’s past. Besides, a subtle nod to the roots and heritage of Egyptian culture.
Summoning the sophistication of Agatha Christie’s extensive repertoire of characters, the Historia cruise embraces the life of high-brow society.
You can see the Egyptian-inspired furniture throughout the cruise as a glorious draw to the heritage of the land, with perforated rattan screens to allow an interplay of light and shadow and give a soft, diffuse glow to the surroundings.
A color palette of earth shades grounds the Nile-voyagers, with vivid jewel tones ranging from rubies to lapis to accentuate the connection to the Ancient Egyptian heritage and jewelry making.
Awaken your sense of wonder when you stay at Le Méridien Cairo Airport, a 5 star hotel in Egypt’s energetic capital. As the first and only hotel connected to Terminal Three of the Cairo International Airport,we offer a convenient pedestrian bridge with direct access to the hotel entrance. Treat yourself to a new wardrobe at Sun City Mall. Explore the Great Pyramids, visit the Sphinx or study artifacts from King Tutankhamun, all nearby. Afterward, return to our premium airport hotel for a cocktail by the outdoor pool or a workout at our fitness centre. If you are planning a destination wedding or corporate gathering in Cairo, Egypt asks about our versatile ballrooms and meeting rooms. Choose from several on-site hotel restaurants, serving zesty Lebanese dishes at Mezzeh, Chinese cuisine at China Red and hearty burgers at the Live Sports Bar. After an eventful day, relax on one of our plush signature beds and watch the sunset views over the airport. Discover new heights at Le Méridien Cairo Airport.
Private Room: $15,000
Shared Room: $12,500 per person based on 2 people sharing a room
Upon confirmation of availability a 40% deposit is required. Credit card payments incur a 3% banking fee. Wire transfer and checks are also accepted at no additional fee. The remaining balance is due February 1, 2024.
40% deposit per person is fully non-refundable, to cover domestic flight penalties, cruise deposit and other non-refundable deposits related to this Escape. Final payment is fully non-refundable upon receipt. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance in case you run into any unforeseen medical, work or personal issues that prevent you from being able to join us after submitting payment, as the deposit and each subsequent payment, is non-refundable. You are welcome to purchase any travel insurance you are comfortable with, and we also offer policies & rates here.
Should borders close or lockdowns be imposed prior to travel no cancellation fees will be incurred.
Please refer to the policies page for our complete cancellation policy.
Please find a brief outline of the itinerary below. We appreciate the element of surprise and prefer to not reveal each element of this unique Escape in advance — there are so many amazing experiences that are not listed below. An element of trust is requested so that we can keep these surprises a surprise, but we are happy to provide more details if needed — just ask.
Arrival: Arrive at Cairo Airport. Our VIP meet-and-assist team will great & assist you through the passport control area and help you through luggage claim and customs. You will be transferred to The Four Seasons at Nile Plaza Hotel – Nile View Rooms. Please note meals are NOT included on this day.
Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel.
Egyptian Museum: Meet our private Egyptologist guide & proceed to visit the Egyptian Museum. Our Egyptologist will escort us on a tour of 7,000 years of Egyptian history which includes the world-famous golden treasures from King Tutankhamen’s tomb – if The New museum is finally open we will move our visit to the New Museum.
Lunch: Lunch at an authentic local restaurant.
Walking Tour through the Islamic Quarter: Drive to the Islamic quarter. Arrive at one of the Old Cairo gates; Bab El Fotouh, to start this amazing walk through the ancient Islamic quarter, with its narrow streets, and bustling road-side shops and “wekalas” – trading places, that still actively trade in all sorts of wares. Walk down Al Moez Street until you reach Khan El Khalili Bazar.
Khan El Khalili Bazar: Proceed to the fascinating Khan El-Khalili Bazaar – reputed to be the largest bazaar in the Middle East. Originally founded as a watering stop for caravanserai in the 14th century, the bazaar has now grown to vast proportions… of course, for those that are interested, there will be time for shopping!
Dinner: Welcome Dinner at our hotel & overnight.
Breakfast: Breakfast at your hotel.
A day of surprises 😉
Sakkara Pyramid: Visit the first limestone structure ever built. Explore its 4350 years old colored tombs. Get the chance to go inside a pyramid and see the ancient Hieroglyphics that have been engraved on its walls for thousands of years. Then visit the off-the beaten track tombs of Mhu, the Brothers & the Butchers.
Lunch: Lunch at authentic Local restaurant.
Dinner experience
Transfer: Transfer back to hotel & overnight.
Breakfast: Breakfast at your hotel.
Giza Pyramids: Proceed to the Pyramids of Giza. The only present-day survivors of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, they are among the world’s greatest tourist attractions and never lose their ability to inspire and overwhelm visitors.
Camel Ride: No trip to Egypt would be complete without a ride on a “ship of the desert”, and so you will have an opportunity to mount your individual camel for an unforgettable ride across the sands of Giza from a distance.
Lunch: Lunch overlooking the pyramids.
Sphinx: Visit to the mysterious Sphinx, an ancient figure shrouded in legend and mystery. Your Egyptologist will enthral you with the tales told of this fascinating figure.
Transfer: Transfer back to hotel for dinner & overnight.
Breakfast: Breakfast boxes will be arranged from the hotel & checkout for our very early morning flight to Abu Simbel via Aswan.
Transfer: Transfer to the airport for our flights.
Abu Simbel Temple: On the southern border of Egypt. This site is the home of two massive rock temples dedicated to Pharaoh Ramses the Second and his wife Nefertari. See the gigantic statues of the pharaoh standing for over 3200 years, flanking the entrance to one of the most impressive temples in Egypt.
Lunch: Lunch at an authentic local restaurant.
Transfer: Flight to Aswan & Transfer to the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel for dinner and overnight.
Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel
Nubian Museum: The Nubian Museum celebrates the culture and civilization of the Nubian region of Egypt from prehistoric times to the present. It is in the city of Aswan, on the eastern bank of the Nile, 899 kilometres south of Cairo. The museum is a three-story building with an outdoor exhibition area. It houses the main finds of the UNESCO salvage campaign carried out at the time of the building of the High Dam, which eventually flooded that whole region.
Lunch at a local restaurant
Aswan City Tour: Explore the Old Market and the spice Market.
Dinner: Dinner at our hotel & overnight.
Breakfast: Breakfast at your hotel & check out
Philae Temple: In the morning, we take a quick drive to the pier to cross to the other side to visit the island of Philae and the temple of Isis, the goddess of love and passion in ancient Egypt.
Arrival: Transfer to the Historia Cruise – Luxury Cabin.
Lunch onboard our cruise
Felucca Ride: Around sunset, enjoy a leisurely felucca sailboat ride down the Nile and sail around Elephantine Island.
Dinner: Dinner & entertainment onboard our cruise.
Please note that this is not a private cruise. Our 5* ship has 46 rooms total. We will be sharing this cruise ship with other discerning guests but have our own private guide who travels with us throughout our trip + customized private itinerary.
Breakfast: Breakfast onboard your cruise.
Kom Ombo Temple: Walk to visit the temple of Kom Ombo temple, dedicated to the crocodile and falcon gods. Stop at the Crocodile Mummification Museum, where you can see crocodile mummies that are thousands of years old.
Lunch onboard our cruise.
Edfu Temple: By horse carriage visit the temple of Horus at Edfu, The complex is one of the most well-preserved sites in Egypt today; its architecture is very much intact, and the building contains a wealth of legible inscriptions on its walls. It is dedicated to the falcon god, Horus. Several of the inscriptions found at the temple of Edfu describe what is known as the “Sacred Drama.” The story describes the conflict between Horus, the deity of the fertile Egyptian lands near the Nile, and Seth, the deity of the surrounding Egyptian desert, as Horus seeks revenge for the murder of his father, Osiris.
Dinner: Dinner & entertainment onboard our cruise.
Private Hot Air Balloon Ride over the West Bank of Luxor with breakfast — winds permitting
Breakfast back on board
Karnak Temple: Visit the temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex that was ever built for a god. The temple is dedicated to the god Amon Ra, the chief creator god in Ancient Egypt. Explore Khonso Temple & the Opet festival chapel which is one of the off beaten track sites.
Luxor Temple: Visit the Luxor temple that was predominantly built by Pharaoh Ramses the second.
Sphinx Avenue: Walk the Sphinx Avenue from the Luxor Temple side (walk the most intact part of it – then walk back).
Lunch on board our cruise while sailing to Luxor.
Evening Experience in Valley of the Kings: Visit the tomb of King Ramses 6 & the famous tomb of King Tutankhamen, where they discovered over five thousand objects of jewelry, alabaster and funeral furniture.
Dinner: Dinner & entertainment onboard our cruise.
Breakfast: Breakfast on board & checkout.
Hatshepsut temple: Visit the temple of Hatshepsut the only female pharaoh who dressed and ruled like a king. Have a photo stop by the huge Colossi of Memnon.
Valley of the Queens: Visit the valley of the queens and you will have a chance to visit the most beautiful Tomb of Queen Nefertari. The Tomb of Nefertari was closed for about 30 years and is now only open to a limited number of visitors each day by private access.
Lunch: Enjoy a legendary relaxing felucca lunch onboard a traditional sailboat.
Transfer to the airport for flight to Cairo
Arrival: Arrive & check in at the Le Meridien Airport Hotel – Deluxe Room
Dinner: Farewell Dinner
Breakfast: Breakfast at hotel & checkout.
Transfer: Board your flight home with your heart filled with memories, unforgettable experiences and the voices of Egypt.
For those that have later flights…
Coptic Cairo: Visit of Coptic Cairo, there you will find the remains of the old Fortress of Babylon, built at the time of the Romans in Egypt to protect the country from invading enemies. The walls of the fortress enclose the Church of St. Sergius, which is built on a crypt considered to be one of the resting places of the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt 2000 years ago.
Synagogue of Ben Ezra: Visit the Synagogue of Ben Ezra, from the time of the once thriving Jewish community in Egypt under the leadership of Rabbi Ben Ezra. Inside were discovered the so-called “Geniza Documents”, which showed an unparalleled source of information about life of the Jews in Egypt’s past. Please note that the Synagogue may still be under construction by the time of this trip. If it is open to visitors, we can take you there. If not, we cannot 🙂
*Above is based on the current regulations and published information, these are subject to change according to the situation.
For those that are interested we are happy to assist with flights, an extension into Jordan (Petra/Wadi Rum) or to the desert oasis in Egypt (Fayoum), Turkey, Georgia, you name it, we can get you there! We have wonderful guides & resources to bring your dream extension to life!
Erica is an acclaimed wellness expert, yoga teacher & fitness trainer. She is largely inspired by the journey of wellness, the subtle to the grand discoveries each individual makes through their physical practice, inviting students to embrace a sense of play while experiencing their body in a whole new way through each unique class. With classes always set to music, from tribal to lounge to classic rock songs, Erica encourages students to find their own personal rhythm and expression, to meet their edge and challenge themselves in new ways. Additionally, Erica is co-founder and co-owner of Escape To Shape: Adventures in Wellness & Escape Artists: Luxury Travel Advisors. Erica is passionate about travel & giving back to the communities in which she visits & thrives on authentic connection, curiosity & discovery.