There are some places that you dream about for years, and then, when you finally arrive, they take your breath away in ways you never imagined. Egypt was exactly that for me. Over 11 days, I explored the wonders of this ancient land, tracing the footsteps of pharaohs, sailing the Nile, and immersing myself in the rich culture and history that make Egypt so magical.
Day 1: Arrival in Egypt, "Hello Cairo!"
Landing in Cairo felt surreal. As I stepped off the plane, I was immediately hit with the warm air and the electric energy of Egypt’s capital. After a long journey, I met up with my travel group, and we shared a meal at the hotel, getting to know each other over traditional Egyptian dishes. As I lay down that night, the anticipation buzzed through me—tomorrow, I'd be seeing the pyramids with my own eyes.
Day 2: The Pyramids of Giza & The Sphinx
This was the moment I had been waiting for. The morning light cast a golden glow on the desert sands as we approached the Pyramids of Giza. I had seen thousands of pictures, but nothing prepared me for their sheer size and grandeur. Standing before the Great Pyramid, I was in awe of how these ancient structures had stood the test of time.
One of the most incredible experiences was riding a camel across the dunes to a panoramic viewpoint. The scene before me was something out of a dream—three massive pyramids rising from the desert, a sight that has been mesmerizing travelers for millennia. And then, of course, there was the Sphinx, its enigmatic face weathered by centuries of wind and sand, guarding the pyramids like a silent sentinel.
Later, we explored the Grand Egyptian Museum’s limited open exhibits before heading back to the hotel. That night, as I lay in bed, I couldn’t stop thinking about the hands that built these structures thousands of years ago.
Day 3: Exploring Saqqara, Memphis & Dahshur
While the pyramids of Giza are the most famous, they aren’t the oldest. Today, we delved deeper into Egypt’s ancient history by visiting Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser—the world’s first true pyramid. It was fascinating to see how pyramid design evolved over time. In Memphis, once Egypt’s grand capital, we walked among massive statues and ruins that spoke of a city long lost to history.
Dahshur was a highlight for me. Unlike Giza, which bustled with tourists, Dahshur felt almost untouched. Here, we saw the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid—early attempts at perfecting the pyramid shape. Walking through their silent chambers gave me chills, as if I were stepping into a time capsule.
Day 4: Museums, Markets & A Flight to Aswan
After a relaxed morning, we visited the Egyptian Museum, home to King Tut’s famous golden mask and countless artifacts from tombs across Egypt. I could have spent hours wandering its halls, but the day had more in store.
Next, we ventured into the lively streets of Cairo, exploring Coptic Cairo with its historic churches and then the Islamic district, where the Muhammad Ali Mosque stood proudly atop the Citadel. Finally, we wandered through Khan el Khalili Bazaar, where the air was thick with the scent of spices, incense, and sizzling street food.
That evening, we caught a late flight to Aswan. Stepping off the plane, the air felt different—warmer, quieter, and more serene.
Day 5: Philae Temple & The Nubian Village
Aswan’s beauty lies in its connection to the Nile. Our morning boat ride took us to Philae Temple, perched on an island in the middle of the river. Dedicated to Isis, the temple felt sacred, its intricate carvings still telling stories thousands of years later.
Later, we visited a Nubian village, where I was captivated by the vibrant homes, the welcoming smiles of locals, and the rhythmic beats of traditional music. I couldn’t resist picking up some handwoven scarves and a variety of spices—some of the best I’ve ever smelled.
Day 6: Abu Simbel & Boarding the Nile Cruise
The 4 AM wake-up call was tough, but when we arrived at Abu Simbel, I knew it was worth every lost hour of sleep. These colossal temples, built by Ramses II, were carved directly into the mountainside and later relocated stone by stone to save them from flooding. Standing before them, I felt like I had traveled back in time.
By late afternoon, we returned to Aswan and boarded our Nile cruise, where we would be living on the river for the next three days. The moment the boat set sail, I knew this would be one of the most relaxing parts of the trip.
Day 7: Temples of Kom Ombo & Edfu
Sailing the Nile is like watching history unfold. Our first stop was Kom Ombo, a temple uniquely dedicated to two gods—Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. I even saw a room full of mummified crocodiles!
Later, we visited Edfu Temple, one of the best-preserved in Egypt. Walking through its halls, I could still see intricate carvings that depicted scenes from ancient life. It was a reminder of just how advanced Egyptian civilization was.
Day 8: Arriving in Luxor—Karnak & Luxor Temples
Luxor is truly an open-air museum. At Karnak, I stood among towering stone pillars that seemed to stretch endlessly into the sky. The scale of the place was overwhelming.
That evening, we explored Luxor Temple, beautifully lit under the stars. As I wandered through the temple’s colossal statues and hieroglyph-covered walls, I felt a deep appreciation for how much history has passed through these corridors.
Day 9: Hot Air Balloon & The Valley of the Kings
The best way to see Luxor? From the sky! Floating above the Nile in a hot air balloon at sunrise was a moment I’ll never forget.
Back on land, we visited the Valley of the Kings. Walking through the tombs of pharaohs, with their vibrant paintings still intact, felt surreal. We also visited Queen Hatshepsut’s temple, dedicated to Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh.
Day 10: A Luxor Resort Retreat
After so many adventures, today was all about relaxation. Our resort overlooked the Nile, and I spent the day swimming, reading, and soaking in the beauty of Luxor. It was the perfect way to reflect on everything I had experienced.
Day 11: Farewell to Egypt
As I boarded my flight home, I knew this journey had changed me. Egypt is a place that stays with you—its history, its people, and its spirit leave a mark on your soul.
If Egypt is on your bucket list, GO. Walk through temples older than time, sail the Nile, and let history surround you. It’s an adventure you’ll never forget.
This itinerary was created by Damesly. "Our trips aim to build connection to likeminded women who value both work and play. For us, community is everything. From start to finish, we aim to help you build friendships and connections that enrich your life — while also supporting as many women globally as we can. Our travel community is here to inspire, support, and encourage you."
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