10 Days • 9 Nights
Desert Stars & Coastal Serenity: Cairo to Marassi
Tour Includes
About the Trip
Visit Pompey’s Pillar, descend into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa and explore Alexandria National Museum before continuing across the North Coast and desert landscapes to Siwa Oasis.
Spend three nights surrounded by palm groves, salt lakes and desert scenery. Float in Siwa’s mineral-rich salt lakes, relax in natural springs and travel across the dunes on a private 4x4 safari. As evening falls, enjoy dinner in the desert followed by an exclusive stargazing experience.
The following day reveals Siwa’s cultural and archaeological heritage through visits to the Mountain of the Dead, Shali Fortress, the Temple of the Oracle and Cleopatra’s Spring.
Leave the oasis behind and travel to Marassi on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast. Enjoy two nights at a luxury beach resort, with time to relax beside golden sands, swim in turquoise waters or book a spa treatment.
Return to Cairo for a final afternoon at leisure and conclude the journey with a traditional felucca cruise and Egyptian dinner on the Nile.
Trip Highlights
- Privately guided visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum.
- Stay close to the Giza Pyramids in Cairo.
- Discover Alexandria’s Greco-Roman heritage.
- Visit Pompey’s Pillar.
- Explore the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
- Tour Alexandria National Museum.
- Travel through the Western Desert to Siwa Oasis.
- Float in Siwa’s mineral-rich salt lakes.
- Relax in a natural hot spring.
- Cross the desert dunes by private 4x4.
- Watch the sunset over the Siwa desert.
- Enjoy a private dinner among the dunes.
- Experience guided stargazing beneath the desert sky.
- Explore the Mountain of the Dead.
- Walk through historic Shali Fortress.
- Visit the Temple of the Oracle.
- Bathe in Cleopatra’s Spring.
- Relax beside Marassi’s golden beaches and turquoise waters.
- Enjoy optional spa treatments on the North Coast.
- Sail on the Nile aboard a traditional felucca.
- Conclude with an authentic Egyptian farewell dinner
Day by Day
A detailed day-by-day plan for this 10-day journey.
Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a local representative who will assist you through immigration, baggage collection and airport formalities.
After completing the arrival procedures, meet your private driver and travel comfortably by air-conditioned vehicle to your luxury hotel in Cairo. Along the way, enjoy your first glimpse of Egypt's bustling capital, a fascinating city where modern skyscrapers stand alongside monuments that have survived for thousands of years.
After check-in, spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Relax in your elegant surroundings, enjoy the hotel's facilities or simply unwind after your flight while preparing for the exciting experiences ahead.
Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to enjoy dinner at one of the hotel's restaurants or admire the city skyline from the comfort of your accommodation.
Enjoy breakfast before meeting your private Egyptologist guide for a fascinating exploration of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
Located near the Giza Plateau, this impressive museum has been designed to showcase the greatest collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts ever assembled under one roof. As you enter the magnificent Grand Hall, you'll be greeted by colossal statues of ancient pharaohs that immediately set the tone for the incredible journey through Egypt's past.
Your guide will lead you through beautifully curated galleries displaying royal treasures, monumental sculptures, intricate jewellery, ceremonial objects, beautifully carved sarcophagi and everyday items that reveal the lives of ancient Egyptians over thousands of years.
Learn about the evolution of Egypt's powerful dynasties, the significance of the pharaohs, religious beliefs surrounding the afterlife and the extraordinary engineering achievements that continue to fascinate historians today.
The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax at your hotel or explore Cairo independently.
Following breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin a comfortable private journey to Alexandria, located approximately three hours north of Cairo along Egypt's Mediterranean coastline.
Upon arrival, meet your guide and begin exploring the city's remarkable heritage.
Your first stop is Pompey's Pillar, a magnificent Roman column standing nearly 27 metres high. Although its name is historically inaccurate, it remains one of Alexandria's best-preserved Roman monuments and offers a fascinating introduction to the city's imperial past.
Continue to the extraordinary Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of Alexandria's most remarkable archaeological discoveries. Descend beneath the earth to explore a unique underground necropolis where Egyptian, Greek and Roman artistic influences blend together in beautifully decorated burial chambers and ceremonial halls.
Next, visit the Alexandria National Museum, housed inside an elegant Italian-style palace. The museum presents an impressive collection of artefacts illustrating the city's rich history from the Pharaonic, Greek and Roman periods through to the Coptic and Islamic eras.
Later, discover the magnificent Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern architectural masterpiece inspired by the legendary Ancient Library of Alexandria. Explore its vast reading halls, museums and cultural exhibitions while learning about Alexandria's role as one of the greatest centres of knowledge in the ancient world.
Complete your sightseeing with a leisurely drive along the famous Alexandria Corniche, enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea before checking into your luxury hotel.
Spend the evening relaxing by the coast.
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your scenic overland journey towards the remote Siwa Oasis, one of Egypt's most fascinating and least-visited destinations.
Travel along Egypt's northern coastline before gradually entering the vast Western Desert. Along the way, admire dramatic desert scenery, rocky escarpments and endless golden sand dunes that create one of North Africa's most breathtaking landscapes.
Pause during the journey to enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch at a local coastal restaurant, where you can savour Mediterranean flavours while overlooking the sea.
Continue your drive inland until the lush greenery of Siwa suddenly appears amid the surrounding desert. Famous for its ancient traditions, olive groves, date palms and crystal-clear natural springs, Siwa offers a completely different side of Egypt compared to the bustling cities of Cairo and Alexandria.
Upon arrival, check in to your unique eco-luxury desert lodge, designed using traditional Siwan architecture and natural materials that blend perfectly with the surrounding landscape.
Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing while taking in the peaceful atmosphere of this remarkable oasis.
Following breakfast, begin your exploration of Siwa's extraordinary natural landscapes.
Your morning starts with a visit to the famous Siwa Salt Lakes, whose incredibly high salt concentration allows visitors to float effortlessly on the surface. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic properties and provide one of the oasis's most unique experiences.
Continue to one of Siwa's refreshing natural freshwater springs, where you can relax amid beautiful palm groves surrounded by tranquil desert scenery.
Later in the afternoon, board a specially prepared 4×4 vehicle for an exciting desert safari into the vast Great Sand Sea.
Your experienced driver navigates enormous golden dunes while sharing stories about Bedouin life and the remarkable geography of Egypt's Western Desert.
As the sun begins to set, arrive at a scenic viewpoint where the desert transforms into spectacular shades of gold and orange, creating one of the most memorable sunsets in Egypt.
Following sunset, enjoy a beautifully arranged private dinner in the desert, featuring freshly prepared local cuisine served beneath an endless canopy of stars.
Complete the evening with a guided stargazing experience, where the clear desert skies reveal countless constellations, planets and the Milky Way, offering a truly unforgettable end to your day.
Return to your eco-lodge later in the evening.
After breakfast, meet your local guide for a full-day exploration of Siwa's remarkable history and traditions.
Begin your journey at the Mountain of the Dead (Gebel Al Mawta), an ancient necropolis containing hundreds of beautifully decorated rock-cut tombs dating back to the Greco-Roman period. Explore several of these fascinating burial chambers while learning about the customs and beliefs of the ancient inhabitants of the oasis.
Continue to the historic Shali Fortress, the heart of old Siwa. Built using traditional mud-brick construction techniques known as kershef, this centuries-old settlement once protected the local community from invading forces. Wander through its narrow lanes while enjoying panoramic views across the oasis.
Next, visit the legendary Temple of the Oracle of Amun, where Alexander the Great is believed to have consulted the famous oracle before declaring himself the son of the god Amun. Your guide will explain the temple's importance in both Egyptian and Greek history.
Later, stop at the famous Cleopatra's Spring, a natural freshwater pool surrounded by palm trees. According to local legend, Queen Cleopatra herself once bathed here, making it one of Siwa's most celebrated landmarks. Enjoy time to relax beside the spring or take a refreshing dip in its crystal-clear waters.
Pause for a traditional Siwan lunch at a local restaurant, where you'll enjoy authentic regional cuisine prepared using locally sourced ingredients.
Return to your lodge in the late afternoon and spend your final evening enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the oasis.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out from your desert lodge.
Meet your private driver and begin your scenic journey from Siwa Oasis to the beautiful Mediterranean resort destination of Marassi. Along the way, admire the changing landscapes as endless sand dunes gradually give way to fertile coastal plains and sparkling blue waters.
Pause during the journey to enjoy a delicious coastal lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Upon arrival in Marassi, complete the check-in formalities at your luxury beachfront resort.
Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing by the swimming pool, walking along the pristine white-sand beach, or simply enjoying spectacular views across the Mediterranean coastline.
As evening approaches, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Egypt's most prestigious coastal destination before retiring to your luxury accommodation.
Wake up to spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your luxury resort.
Today has been intentionally left free, allowing you to enjoy Marassi at your own pace.
Relax on the resort's private beach, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters or unwind beside the infinity pool while enjoying exceptional coastal views.
Guests seeking additional relaxation may choose to visit the luxury spa for rejuvenating massages and wellness treatments.
For those looking for more activity, optional experiences such as paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing and beach sports may be available depending on the season and resort facilities.
Spend the afternoon exploring Marassi's stylish marina, boutique shopping area and waterfront cafés, or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings before another comfortable evening at your luxury resort.
After breakfast, check out from your beachfront resort and begin your comfortable private journey back to Cairo.
Upon arrival, check in to your luxury hotel and enjoy some free time to relax before your final evening experience.
Later, transfer to the Nile where a beautifully decorated traditional felucca awaits.
Board the elegant sailing boat and enjoy a peaceful cruise along the world's longest river while watching Cairo's famous skyline illuminated after sunset.
As the gentle breeze carries your felucca along the Nile, savour a delicious traditional Egyptian farewell dinner, featuring carefully prepared local specialties accompanied by warm Egyptian hospitality.
This memorable evening provides the perfect conclusion to your journey through Egypt's ancient monuments, desert landscapes and Mediterranean coastline.
Following dinner, return privately to your hotel for your final overnight stay.
Enjoy your final breakfast before checking out of your hotel.
At the scheduled time, meet your private driver and English-speaking airport representative for a comfortable transfer to Cairo International Airport.
During the journey, reflect on the incredible experiences you've enjoyed throughout your holiday—from the magnificent collections of the Grand Egyptian Museum and the Greco-Roman landmarks of Alexandria, to the peaceful beauty of Siwa Oasis, unforgettable desert safari, magical stargazing, and the relaxing beaches of Marassi.
Upon arrival at the airport, receive assistance with luggage and departure formalities before checking in for your international flight.
Depart Egypt with unforgettable memories of one of the world's most diverse and fascinating travel destinations.
Where You Will Travel
What's inside the package?
Inclusions
- Nine nights’ accommodation in selected hotels and desert retreats.
- Private arrival and departure transfers.
- Airport meet-and-assist service in Cairo.
- Assistance with immigration and visa formalities on arrival.
- Private air-conditioned transportation throughout the itinerary.
- Private transfer from Cairo to Alexandria.
- Private overland journey from Alexandria to Siwa.
- Private transfer from Siwa to Marassi.
- Private return transfer from Marassi to Cairo.
- Professional local guides for included sightseeing.
- Half-day guided tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum.
- Guided Alexandria heritage tour.
- Entry to Pompey’s Pillar.
- Entry to the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
- Visit to Alexandria National Museum.
- Siwa salt-lake and natural-spring experience.
- Private 4x4 desert safari.
- Private dinner in the dunes.
- Private stargazing experience.
- Full-day guided tour of Siwa.
- Mountain of the Dead visit.
- Shali Fortress visit.
- Temple of the Oracle visit.
- Cleopatra’s Spring experience.
- Leisure stay at a North Coast beach resort.
- Traditional felucca cruise in Cairo.
- Farewell Egyptian dinner on the Nile.
- Lunches and dinners specifically mentioned in the confirmed itinerary.
- Entrance fees for attractions listed in the final programme.
- Local support during the journey.
Exclusions
- International airfare when sold as a land-only package.
- Egypt tourist visa unless specifically included.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- Meals not listed in the confirmed itinerary.
- Drinks during meals unless mentioned.
- Optional spa treatments in Marassi.
- Additional activities at the beach resort.
- Personal expenses and shopping.
- Laundry, minibar and telephone charges.
- Tips for guides, drivers and hotel staff.
- Photography or video permits where charged.
- Early check-in and late checkout.
- Any service not specifically mentioned under inclusions.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
- An Egypt tourist visa may be required depending on your nationality.
- The best time for this itinerary is October to April, when temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing and desert travel.
- Siwa Oasis involves long overland journeys; comfortable clothing and travel essentials are recommended.
- Pack lightweight clothing for the day and a light jacket for cooler desert evenings.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and comfortable walking shoes for archaeological sites and desert excursions.
- Mobile network coverage may be limited in remote desert regions.
- Swimwear is recommended for Siwa's salt lakes, Cleopatra's Spring and the beach resort at Marassi.
- Tipping is customary for guides, drivers and hotel staff throughout Egypt.
- Comprehensive travel insurance covering desert excursions and medical emergencies is highly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which destinations are included in this tour?
This itinerary covers Cairo, Alexandria, Siwa Oasis and Marassi, offering a unique combination of Egypt's historical landmarks, desert landscapes and Mediterranean coastline.
Is Siwa Oasis suitable for first-time visitors to Egypt?
Yes. Siwa offers a completely different side of Egypt with its palm groves, salt lakes, ancient temples and desert scenery, making it an excellent addition to a classic Egypt itinerary.
How long is the journey from Alexandria to Siwa Oasis?
The drive takes approximately 7–8 hours, including comfort stops along the route through Egypt's Western Desert.
Can I swim in the Siwa Salt Lakes and Cleopatra's Spring?
Yes. Visitors can float effortlessly in the mineral-rich Salt Lakes and enjoy a refreshing swim in Cleopatra's Spring, both of which are among Siwa's most popular experiences.
What can I expect during the desert safari?
You'll travel across the Great Sand Sea in a private 4×4 vehicle, enjoy spectacular sunset views, dine under the stars and experience guided stargazing in one of Egypt's most pristine desert environments.
Are the beaches at Marassi suitable for families?
Yes. Marassi features calm Mediterranean waters, sandy beaches, luxury resorts and family-friendly facilities, making it ideal for couples and families alike.
Is the Grand Egyptian Museum included in the itinerary?
Yes. The package includes a privately guided visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum, one of the world's largest museums dedicated to ancient Egyptian civilization.
Is this tour physically demanding?
The itinerary is suitable for most travelers. However, some walking is required at archaeological sites, and the desert safari involves driving over sand dunes and uneven terrain.
Can this itinerary be extended with Luxor, Aswan or a Nile Cruise?
Absolutely. This tour can easily be combined with Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, a Luxury Nile Cruise, or a Red Sea beach extension.
What makes this itinerary different from a classic Egypt tour?
Unlike traditional Egypt itineraries that focus primarily on the Nile Valley, this journey combines Egypt's ancient heritage with remote desert adventures, natural wonders, oasis culture and Mediterranean luxury, offering a more diverse travel experience.
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