The sacred site of Saint Catherine, You to fully immerse yourself in the spirituality and serene atmosphere of this historic site, revered by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam alike.
THE ROUTE OF THE HOLY FAMILY AND THE FOOTSTEPS OF MOSES IN EGYPT Private Tour.
(CAIRO - ASWAN - KOM OMBO - EDFU - ESNA - LUXOR - CAIRO).
Minimum number of passengers for the circuit: 6 pax.
The starting day of the trip depends on the cruise schedule:
Iconic Cities & Impressive Landscapes: A Journey Through History and Faith. Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Egypt, a land where history, culture, and spirituality blend seamlessly. This adventure invites you to explore some of the most iconic cities and breathtaking landscapes the world has to offer, while walking in the footsteps of pharaohs, prophets, and saints. Our journey begins in Cairo, home to the legendary Three Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, eternal guardians of ancient mysteries. Here, you will also discover the priceless treasures of the Egyptian Museum of Pharaonic Art, and ascend to the Citadel of Saladin, where the majestic Alabaster Mosque rises proudly over the city skyline. Cairo is also a cradle of sacred history: the Church of the Virgin Mary, the Church of Saint Sergius, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue tell the story of centuries of faith and devotion. In the Mataria area, the Tree of the Virgin Mary and the Church of the Holy Family mark the resting places of the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt—sites filled with profound meaning and peace.
From there, the timeless Nile River will guide you south, where temples and legends await. In Luxor, once known as Thebes, marvel at the grandeur of the Temples of Karnak with its awe-inspiring colonnade hall, and the elegant Temple of Luxor, beautifully illuminated at sunset. The Valley of the Kings, resting place of pharaohs, will leave you breathless with its royal tombs carved deep into the rock, while the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut showcases the genius of ancient architecture. Standing guard nearby are the colossal statues of Memnon, silent witnesses of Egypt’s golden age. The adventure continues along the Nile to discover the Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon god Horus, and the remarkable Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique double sanctuary devoted to Sobek and Haroeris. The nearby Mummified Crocodile Museum offers a glimpse into one of Egypt’s most fascinating cults. In Aswan, you will experience the modern marvel of the High Dam, as well as the unfinished yet monumental Obelisk of Queen Hatshepsut, an extraordinary testament to ancient engineering. To complete the magic, enjoy a romantic felucca ride on the Nile, drifting peacefully across its serene waters and taking in landscapes that have inspired travelers for millennia.
Your journey will also lead you beyond the Nile Valley, where faith and spirituality reach new heights. Visit the Fountains of Moses, sacred to biblical tradition, and ascend the legendary Mount of Moses, where history says the Ten Commandments were received. Finally, discover the ancient Monastery of Saint Catherine, one of Christianity’s oldest and most revered sanctuaries, nestled at the foot of the Sinai mountains. This unforgettable journey is more than just a trip—it is an invitation to live history, to connect with spirituality, and to marvel at the wonders of one of the most extraordinary civilizations in the world. Egypt will not only impress you with its monuments and landscapes, it will touch your soul forever.
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Arrival in Cairo. Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our dedicated local staff, who will provide full assistance with all visa and immigration formalities, ensuring a smooth and stress-free entry into Egypt. From the very first moment, you will feel the hospitality and care that characterizes this unforgettable journey. After completing the formalities, enjoy a comfortable private transfer to your selected hotel in Cairo. Once there, take time to settle in and relax after your international flight. The evening is yours to rest or to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Egypt’s bustling capital — a city where ancient history and modern life blend in perfect harmony.
Overnight stay in Cairo, the gateway to the timeless wonders of Egypt.
Full-Day Excursion: Pyramids & The Path of the Holy Family. After breakfast, we will begin an extraordinary journey to the legendary Giza Necropolis, home to the Three Pyramids of Cheops, Khafre, and Menkaure—the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. Standing before the Great Pyramid, you will fulfill a dream that countless travelers from around the globe share: to admire with your own eyes the most iconic and enduring symbols of ancient Egypt. We will then continue to the Great Sphinx of Giza, one of the most mysterious and fascinating monuments in human history. Half lion, half man, this colossal guardian of the plateau has intrigued scholars, archaeologists, and visitors for centuries with questions about its origin, age, and purpose. Standing in its shadow, you will sense both the majesty and the enigma that surround this timeless wonder. This site is not only remarkable for its grandeur—it is also a place deeply connected to the roots of civilization and the birth of the world’s great religions.
After this unforgettable encounter, we will follow in the footsteps of the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt, beginning with a visit to the Church of the Virgin Mary in the Al-Maadi neighborhood. Tradition holds that the Holy Family passed through this sacred site, leaving behind a spiritual legacy that continues to inspire pilgrims and travelers alike. Our pilgrimage continues to the Coptic Quarter, where we will visit the Church of Saint Sergius (Abu Serga). In its ancient crypt, the Holy Family is believed to have taken refuge, and visitors today have the unique privilege of stepping on the very ground where the Virgin Mary once walked. Until recently, this crypt was closed to the public, but it is now open, offering an intimate and moving encounter with sacred history.
We will conclude our day with a visit to the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue, famous in tradition as the place where baby Moses was discovered in the reeds of the Nile. This site, blending Biblical narrative with Egyptian history, adds another layer of meaning to an already extraordinary day.
Return to your hotel in Cairo. Overnight stay in the city of a thousand minarets.
Day Tour: The Egyptian Museum, Citadel of Saladin & The Path of the Holy Family in Matariya. After breakfast at the hotel, we set out to discover one of Egypt’s greatest cultural treasures: the Egyptian Museum of Pharaonic Art. This world-renowned museum holds the most complete collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in existence. As you walk through its galleries, you will be surrounded by thousands of masterpieces—statues, jewelry, mummies, and everyday objects that tell the story of a civilization that continues to fascinate the world. From the golden treasures of Tutankhamun to the timeless beauty of statues carved over 4,000 years ago, this museum is a true window into eternity. We then continue our journey to the Citadel of Saladin, the medieval fortress that dominates Cairo’s skyline. Within its walls, we will visit the famous Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, an architectural jewel with gleaming domes and elegant minarets. Inside, its vast interior exudes serenity, and from the Citadel terraces, you can enjoy one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Cairo, stretching out across the city’s sea of minarets.
After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, our path takes us to one of the most spiritual and meaningful stops of the Holy Family in Egypt: El Matariya. Here we will visit the legendary Tree of the Virgin Mary, one of the most venerated sites in Cairo. According to tradition, the Holy Family rested under this tree during their journey from Palestine into Egypt. It is believed that a miraculous spring of water appeared here, from which the Virgin Mary drank and used to wash the clothes of the infant Jesus. To this day, Christians from around the world come to this sacred tree, especially during Christmas, to honor this divine moment of refuge and blessing. Nearby, we will visit the Church of the Holy Family, recognized as the first stop on the journey of sanctification toward Jerusalem. This church is a place of deep devotion and spirituality, offering the unique opportunity to not only visit, but also, if desired, to participate in a mass in the very place where the Holy Family once stood—a profoundly moving experience for any believer. At the end of this unforgettable day, we return to the hotel for rest and overnight in Cairo.
Day Tour: From Cairo to Aswan – The High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk & a Romantic Felucca Ride. After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to Cairo International Airport for a short domestic flight to Aswan, a city often referred to as the “Pearl of the Nile” for its breathtaking scenery, laid-back charm, and immense historical importance. Upon arrival, we begin our exploration with a visit to the High Dam of Aswan, known in Arabic as Saad El Aali. This modern engineering marvel, completed in 1970, is one of the world’s most ambitious infrastructure projects. Built to control the annual flooding of the Nile, provide irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power, the dam forever changed the landscape of Egypt. Standing here, you will admire not only the vast reservoir of Lake Nasser but also gain an appreciation for how this project has shaped the life and prosperity of the region. Our journey continues with a visit to the Unfinished Obelisk of Queen Hatshepsut, one of the most fascinating remnants of ancient Egypt. Carved directly into the granite bedrock of Aswan’s famous quarries, this colossal monument—measuring nearly 42 meters in length—would have been the largest obelisk ever erected had it been completed. Today, it offers a unique window into the techniques of ancient stonemasonry and the ambitions of one of Egypt’s most remarkable pharaohs.
After our morning visits, we transfer to the pier to embark on the elegant Cruise, where you will enjoy accommodation on a full board basis. A delicious lunch will be served on board as you settle into the comfort of this floating hotel, preparing for days of discovery along the world’s most legendary river. In the afternoon, we set sail in a traditional wooden felucca, the iconic sailboats of the Nile. This romantic and serene ride will take us gliding across calm waters, weaving gently around the lush islands of Aswan. With the sun dipping low over the desert horizon, the felucca experience allows you to feel the timeless rhythm of the river, just as travelers and merchants have for thousands of years. We return to the cruise boat for dinner, followed by a peaceful overnight stay on board in Aswan.
Day Tour: Abu Simbel – The Eighth Wonder of the World & Kom Ombo, the Temple of Two Gods. Enjoy a free morning in Aswan, or take the opportunity to join an optional excursion to the legendary temples of Abu Simbel, often described as the eighth wonder of the world. Located majestically on the shores of Lake Nasser, this awe-inspiring complex is one of the greatest treasures of Egypt. The main temple, dedicated to the mighty Pharaoh Ramses II, is a colossal sanctuary carved into the mountainside, its towering statues continuing to project the eternal glory of one of Egypt’s most iconic rulers. For more than 3,000 years, these temples have stood as a testament to Ramses’ power, devotion to the gods, and his love for his queen, Nefertari. Although the Great Temple of Ramses II is the most famous, the Abu Simbel complex also includes remarkable structures honoring the gods of ancient Egypt. The smaller but equally beautiful Temple of Nefertari was dedicated to the goddess Hathor and immortalizes the queen in unprecedented prominence, a gesture unique in Egyptian history. To this day, Abu Simbel astonishes visitors with the same sense of wonder it inspired in antiquity—an experience that is nothing short of unforgettable.
After this extraordinary journey through history, we return to the cruise ship for lunch on board as we begin sailing towards Kom Ombo. In the afternoon, we disembark to visit the Temple of Kom Ombo, one of the most unusual sanctuaries in Egypt due to its rare double dedication. Built during the Ptolemaic dynasty, this temple is shared by two deities: Sobek, the crocodile-headed god of fertility and creator of the world, and Haroeris (Horus the Elder), the falcon god symbolizing light and protection. The temple’s symmetrical design, with duplicate halls and sanctuaries for each deity, makes it an architectural marvel unlike any other in the country. To complete the experience, we will explore the fascinating Museum of Mummified Crocodiles, where you can admire perfectly preserved crocodile mummies that were once considered sacred in the worship of Sobek. This museum offers an intimate glimpse into one of the most curious and captivating aspects of ancient Egyptian religion.
After the visit, we return to the cruise ship, where you can relax and enjoy the Nile’s timeless beauty as we continue our journey. Dinner and overnight stay on board.
Day Tour: Edfu – Esna – Luxor, the City of a Thousand Gates. After enjoying breakfast on board, we begin the day with a delightful excursion to the Temple of Edfu, the best-preserved temple in all of Egypt and one of the grandest sanctuaries of the ancient world. Dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god, this extraordinary monument has survived the centuries almost intact, allowing us to step back in time and imagine the sacred rituals that once took place here. The visit itself becomes part of the adventure, as you will travel by horse-drawn buggies, two passengers per carriage, evoking the charm of a bygone era as you approach this magnificent site. At the end of the visit, we return to the cruise ship and set sail toward Esna. One of the most fascinating experiences of our journey awaits us here: crossing the Esna Lock, where you can witness firsthand the engineering marvel that allows vessels to navigate the different levels of the Nile. As we continue upriver, the landscapes gradually change, offering endless views of palm groves, villages, and the timeless beauty of the Nile’s fertile banks.
Our destination is Luxor, formerly known as Thebes, the “City of a Thousand Gates.” Once the glorious capital of the New Kingdom, Luxor was the beating heart of ancient Egypt and is today an open-air museum that contains nearly one-third of the world’s ancient monuments. Built upon the ruins of mighty Thebes, the modern town preserves the echoes of its legendary past. Upon arrival, we will visit the awe-inspiring Temple Complex of Karnak, the most monumental religious site ever built. Here you will discover the Great Hypostyle Hall, the largest columned hall in the world, where 134 massive columns rise majestically, creating a forest of stone that leaves every visitor speechless. This sacred space, dedicated to the god Amun, still resonates with the grandeur of pharaonic power and devotion. As the afternoon fades and the golden light begins to give way to twilight, we continue to the Temple of Luxor, a site that becomes truly magical at dusk. Illuminated by carefully placed night lights, the temple takes on an enchanting glow, casting long shadows across its colossal statues and majestic courtyards. At its entrance, the imposing two seated statues of Ramses II guard the way, along with the obelisk of the same pharaoh, whose twin now rises in the Place de la Concorde in Paris. The play of light and history at this hour transforms the visit into an unforgettable experience.
After the tour, we return to the boat for dinner and an overnight stay on board, moored in Luxor, surrounded by the living legacy of ancient Egypt.
Breakfast on Board – Luxor’s Ancient Wonders – Transfer to Cairo. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast on board as we prepare for an unforgettable journey through time. Today, we step into the Valley of the Kings, the legendary necropolis where Egypt’s greatest pharaohs of the New Kingdom were laid to rest. Imagine walking in the footsteps of the ancient rulers as you explore three royal tombs, each adorned with exquisite hieroglyphics and vivid frescoes that tell stories of gods, life, and the afterlife. Over 63 tombs have been discovered carved directly into the rugged cliffs, making this site a mesmerizing treasure trove of history, mystery, and artistry.
Next, we visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most remarkable architectural masterpieces. Built in a style unlike any other temple, this mortuary temple rises in harmonious terraces that blend seamlessly with the surrounding cliffs. Marvel at the genius of ancient engineering as you learn about the queen whose reign brought prosperity and grandeur to Thebes. This iconic structure remains one of the most celebrated monuments of ancient Egyptian architecture, captivating visitors with its elegance and historical significance. Our tour continues with a visit to the Colossi of Memnon, two imposing statues that stand as silent guardians of the Theban plains. These massive representations of Pharaoh Amenhotep III evoke the scale and majesty of Egypt’s imperial past and offer a perfect photo opportunity against the backdrop of the Nile Valley.
At the indicated time, we transfer to Luxor Airport for a short flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and transferred to the luxurious Le Passage Cairo Hotel, where you will stay on a Bed and Breakfast basis. Enjoy a restful evening in the vibrant heart of Egypt’s capital, reflecting on the incredible history you have experienced today. Overnight in Cairo.
Breakfast – Journey to the Sinai Peninsula – Arrival in Sharm El Sheikh. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel before embarking on an exciting journey to the Sinai Peninsula, a land of stunning landscapes and rich biblical history. Your adventure begins with a drive through the Ahmed Hamdy Tunnel, an engineering marvel that takes you beneath the historic Suez Canal, transitioning from the African continent to the Asian side of Egypt. Continue your journey to the sacred Ayun Musa, or the Springs of Moses (Mara), where legend has it that the waters quenched the thirst of the Israelites during their exodus. Take in the serene surroundings and enjoy a moment to connect with the natural and spiritual beauty of this historic site.
After this remarkable stop, travel onward to the world-famous resort city of Sharm El Sheikh, where the turquoise waters of the Red Sea meet dramatic desert landscapes. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and unwind in style. Your stay is on a Half-Board basis, ensuring a delightful dinner awaits you in the evening. Relax, enjoy the facilities, and soak in the magical ambiance of Sharm El Sheikh as night falls over this enchanting destination.
Breakfast – Mount Sinai & Saint Catherine Monastery – Departure. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before departing for the sacred site of Saint Catherine, nestled at the foot of the legendary Mount Sinai in the heart of the Sinai Peninsula. Upon arrival, check in at the Saint Catherine Hotel, located within the monastery grounds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the spirituality and serene atmosphere of this historic site, revered by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam alike. Enjoy some free time to relax and absorb the peaceful surroundings.
In the evening, embark on an unforgettable ascent of Mount Moses (Mount Sinai or Mount Horeb), which rises 2,285 meters above sea level. This is the very mountain where the prophet Moses received the Ten Commandments while the Hebrew people camped at its base. From the summit, witness a breathtaking sunrise over the surrounding peaks, including the Saint Catherine Peak, the highest point of the Sinai Peninsula at 2,637 meters, offering a truly awe-inspiring panorama. Descend to visit the Saint Catherine Monastery, perched at 1,570 meters above sea level. Built between 527 and 565 AD by order of Emperor Justinian, this sacred site marks the biblical location of the Burning Bush. The monastery is named after Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr whose relics, according to tradition, were discovered centuries later on the mountain that now bears her name. It holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest active monastery and houses a library containing some of the oldest manuscripts in the world, second only to the Vatican.
After this spiritual and historical exploration, return to the hotel for rest and reflection. Following breakfast the next morning, transfer to the Taba border crossing, from where you will leave Egypt, marking the conclusion of your extraordinary journey.
End of trip and our services.