Ancient Wonders: Egypt & Nile River Cruise - 2023

PACING

• This journey is moderately paced
• We spend seven nights cruising aboard Vantage’s Deluxe h/s Nebu and 4 nights in Cairo in a Deluxe hotel (pre-cruise) & 1 night in Cairo in a Superior First Class hotel (post-cruise)
• We spend a total of nine days exploring the historic and cultural sites, on half- or full-day tours. There are ample options for more active explorations on your own. We spend one full day relaxing on board while cruising the Nile

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• This is a moderately active itinerary featuring active walking tours
• This trip requires one to two miles of walking most every day. Entering tombs in the Valley of the Kings may involve descending a narrow, somewhat steep walkway at a crouch, and may not be comfortable for some
• Visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures and bright sun, particularly on early September departures
• Because of the active nature of this trip, it is not appropriate for travelers who use walkers or mobility aids. In addition, Vantage river cruise ships are not wheelchair-accessible and there are steps on board

TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION

• Most shore excursions, especially those at ancient and medieval sites and in rural areas, require walking on sandy and rocky terrain and on rough stone and cobbled walkways.
• Shore excursions and transfers utilize air-conditioned shuttles or motorcoaches

CULTURAL IMMERSION

• Egypt has been hosting visitors and tourists for hundreds of years, and is a hospitable and welcoming destination. You will have the opportunity to interact with and see Egyptians going about their daily lives
• The infrastructure in Cairo and along the Nile Valley varies from completely modern and up-to-date to quite undeveloped, particularly in rural Egypt. You can expect to encounter some poverty
• Your hotels and ship are part of the tourist infrastructure geared for Western travelers, so you can expect modern amenities
• Due to government regulations for all Egypt group tours, a security officer will be assigned to escort your journey. They will merely shadow your group and will not interfere with your experience
• Shorts and bare shoulders are okay while on board ship, but are generally not recommended in Cairo, and may also limit access to certain religious sites

CLIMATE

• Weather is never predictable so be sure to be prepared for just about anything. You'll want to take along a sweater or jacket for cool evenings. It's a good idea to dress in layers, which will allow you to adjust to changes in temperature
• Though it seldom rains in Egypt, we suggest a practical raincoat or waterproof shell with a hood, and/or a fold-up umbrella. The shell could also be worn with other layers in lower temperatures
• Since the weather is unpredictable, please use this chart as a general guideline and check weather sites online for 10-day forecasts closer to your departure date to plan your packing accordingly