EGYPT BY LAND AND SEA

March 3 – 18, 2026

Newsweek Readers Choice Best Women's Travel Club

Cruise the Nile and Walk Among Pharaohs

An Epic Egyptian Escape with the Sisterhood

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Egypt By Land and Sea 2026, where ancient wonders and inspiring sisterhood intertwine for an adventure like no other. From the moment you set foot in Cairo, you’ll be surrounded by the vibrant echoes of Egypt’s past yet guided by the laughter and camaraderie of a women-only group ready to make memories at each remarkable turn.

Our 16-day itinerary begins with Cairo’s grand Pyramids and takes us to the Mediterranean beauty of Alexandria before moving south along the iconic Nile River. Imagine cruising for seven nights on the legendary Nile, watching Egypt’s history unfold along its serene shores as we glide toward temples, bustling souks, and stories that have captivated the world for centuries. Alongside ancient monuments like Karnak, Luxor Temple, and the serene Philae Temple, you’ll bond with like-minded travelers in a space designed to make you feel safe, supported, and celebrated.

cairo egypt

Highlights include a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise over the Valley of the Kings, an intimate look at Abu Simbel’s majestic temples, and evenings together under desert skies as we share stories of exploration and empowerment. Each day’s adventure offers both a window into Egypt’s history and a mirror to connect with new friends who’ll soon feel like family. Ready to discover Egypt with us? Join us for this soulful, laughter-filled journey through the land of the Pharaohs.

Featured Highlights

OUR ITINERARY

March 3, 2026

Welcome to Cairo! Once you’ve passed through Egyptian immigration and customs, your driver will meet you in the Arrivals Hall to transport you to our centrally located hotel. This evening, join your Group Leaders and new Sisters for an informal meet and greet. (No meals are included today)

Hotel: Marriott Cairo Hotel & Casino

cairo egypt

March 4, 2026

Today, we’ll be heading northbound as we take in the shores of the Mediterranean. It will take us the full morning before we reach Wadi El Natrum where we’ll visit an ancient monastery that is part of the entire complex of Orthodox Christian monasteries established by the Desert Fathers. Next, we’ll enjoy lunch together at a local restaurant before we continue our journey to Alexandria. (Breakfast and Lunch included today)

Hotel: Helnan Royal Hotel Alexandria

March 5, 2026

Today, we’ll embark on an unforgettable tour of Alexandria, often called the “Pearl of the Mediterranean.” We’ll dive into the city’s rich Hellenic heritage and feel the seamless blend of history and modernity at the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina. This impressive library stands as a tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, originally established over 2,300 years ago. After exploring this iconic site, we’ll take a panoramic drive through Alexandria’s vibrant landscape, where Greco-Roman relics sit alongside charming old cafés and golden beaches. We’ll end the day with a visit to the Royal Jewelry Museum, home to exquisite pieces from Egypt’s last ruling dynasty, which reigned from 1805 to 1952. This evening, we’ll gather together for dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Helnan Royal Hotel Alexandria

alexandria egypt

March 6, 2026

You’re in for a treat today as we bid farewell to Alexandria and board a train for our 3-hour journey back to Cairo. Upon arrival, we’ll check back into our hotel where the rest of the day and evening is yours for independent exploration and dining with your Sisters. (Breakfast included)

Hotel: Marriott Cairo Hotel & Casino

March 7, 2026

Today, we’ll immerse ourselves in Egyptian with a visit to Sakkara, the expansive necropolis and ancient pyramid site of Memphis, Egypt’s original capital. This is the birthplace of pyramid construction, where Imhotep, Egypt’s master architect, built the famous step pyramid for King Djoser nearly 4,700 years ago. With insights from a knowledgeable Egyptologist, we’ll explore this sprawling burial ground, home to 11 pyramids and the remarkable Serapeum, the resting place of the sacred Apis bulls. Before heading back to our hotel this afternoon, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. (Breakfast and Lunch included)

Hotel: Marriott Cairo Hotel & Casino

March 8, 2026

We’ll start our day with an immersion into the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian rulers, dynasties, and intrigue at the renowned Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. Afterward, brace yourself for Cairo’s iconic traffic on the way to Giza, where a true bucket-list experience awaits. Stand before the breathtaking Pyramids of Giza—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—and gaze up at the mysterious Great Sphinx. We’ll return to our hotel by late afternoon to unwind before we join together for dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Marriott Cairo Hotel & Casino

pyramids of giza sphinx

March 9, 2026

Prepare for a pre-dawn departure from our hotel as we head for the airport for our flight to Luxor. Our first stop is the magnificent Karnak Temple, a sprawling 4,000-year-old complex filled with towering pylons and awe-inspiring obelisks. Then, we’ll step aboard our beautiful river cruise ship for a seven-night journey along the Nile River. After a welcome lunch on board, spend the afternoon exploring the ship at your own pace with your Sisters. Later, unwind on the sundeck, taking in the scenic views before gathering together for our first dinner on the water. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: M/S Blue Shadow

5-STAR M/S BLUE SHADOW

blue shadow
karnak temple pano

March 10, 2026

Step back thousands of years into ancient history with a sunrise journey across the Nile to Thebes. We’ll spend the day uncovering the wonders of the Valley of the Kings, including the legendary tombs of Tutankhamun and Ramses VI. We’ll also visit the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and gaze up at the imposing Colossi of Memnon. Back on board, enjoy a late lunch as we settle in to watch the lush Nile banks drift by, sailing upstream toward Kom Ombo, where we’ll dock the following afternoon. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: M/S Blue Shadow

thebes valley of the kings pano

March 11, 2026

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast and a peaceful morning on deck, watching as small farms come into view along the Nile’s banks. This timeless landscape, with water buffalo and local farmers going about their routines, offers a glimpse into a way of life largely unchanged over the centuries. Later in the morning, join an engaging talk that traces Egypt’s history through to the present day. After lunch, we’ll dock at Kom Ombo to explore its fascinating double temple. As we continue sailing toward Aswan, the enchanting Nubian city, take part in a cooking demonstration with the chef, who will introduce us to the essentials of Egyptian cuisine. In the evening, put on your traditional galabeya attire for a lively themed party with our fellow travelers. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: M/S Blue Shadow

kom ombo temple

March 12, 2026

Today, we’ll embark on a full-day adventure across the vast Western Desert, a corner of the legendary Sahara. After a four-hour journey through this stark and stunning landscape, we’ll arrive at Lake Nasser to witness the grand sun temples of Abu Simbel. Built by Pharaoh Ramses II over 3,200 years ago, these monumental temples were carefully relocated in 1968 to protect them from the rising waters of the Aswan Dam. Guided by an expert Egyptologist, we’ll discover the stories behind Ramses II’s impressive temple, its towering statues, and the nearby shrine dedicated to Queen Nefertari. Together, we’ll enjoy a local lunch before settling in on the coach for a relaxed ride back to Aswan, arriving just in time for a dinner aboard our ship. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: M/S Blue Shadow

March 13, 2026

This morning, we’ll board a motorboat and cruise to the sacred island dedicated to the goddess Isis. The stunning Philae Temple, one of the architectural treasures saved from Nile’s rising waters during the construction of the High Dam, awaits. Next, experience the monumental scale of the dam up close before returning to our ship for lunch. The afternoon is free for you to continue exploring Aswan with your Sisters—browse local shops, search for unique spices in the bustling market, or simply soak in the city’s charm. Later, we’ll see each other as we regroup for dinner back on board. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: M/S Blue Shadow

philae temple

March 14, 2026

This morning, step aboard a traditional wooden felucca for a picturesque sail along the Nile. With our time in Aswan coming to an end, soak up the views of the towering sand dunes lining the river’s western shore. After lunch, our ship will continue downstream, offering a peaceful afternoon as we journey toward Edfu. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: M/S Blue Shadow

aswan felucca

March 15, 2026

We’ll start our day early with a visit to the beautifully preserved Temple of Horus in Edfu, where intricate carvings bring to life the might and splendor of the ancient pharaohs. Afterward, we’ll return to our ship for a final stretch of sailing, reaching Luxor by mid-afternoon. Once docked, explore the grand Luxor Temple and stroll along the ancient processional road flanked by human-headed sphinxes leading to Karnak. After dinner on board, the evening is yours to enjoy—either relax on the ship or you can join our guide for a visit to the local souk, wrapping up the night with mint tea at a traditional café. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)

Hotel: M/S Blue Shadow

luxor temple

March 16, 2026

Prepare for our very early morning as we head to the airport for our return flight to Cairo, heading straight to the city’s historic quarter for some free time with your Sisters at the renowned Khan el-Khalili bazaar. Wander through stalls filled with vibrant trinkets, hand-painted crafts, gleaming pendants, and other unique finds. By late afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel, where we’ll gather with our Sisters for a memorable Farewell Dinner. (Breakfast and Dinner included)

Hotel: Intercontinental Citystars Cairo

March 17, 2026

We’ll celebrate our last day in Cairo with a visit to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, a modern, 5.3 million square-foot landmark located in the historic district of Fustat. Opened in 2017, this impressive museum showcases over 50,000 artifacts, tracing Egypt’s rich history from prehistoric eras through to modern times. On April 3, 2021, the museum gained worldwide attention when Egypt’s Ministry of Antiquities hosted the spectacular Pharaohs’ Golden Parade, relocating 22 royal mummies—18 kings and 4 queens, including Ramses II and Queen Hatshepsut—from the Museum of Antiquities in Tahrir Square to their new resting place here. Guided by a knowledgeable Egyptologist, we’ll explore this awe-inspiring collection together —a perfect way to wrap up our Egyptian journey. Before returning to our hotel, we’ll enjoy one last lunch together at a local restaurant. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours for independent exploration and dining with your Sisters. (Breakfast and Lunch included)

Hotel: Intercontinental Citystars Cairo

March 18, 2026

Sadly, our time together comes to an end today. We’ll transfer back to the Cairo airport for our return flights home.  (Breakfast included)

Trip Inclusions

Deposit

PRICING

Double Occupancy
$ 7299
00
per person
  • EGYPT BY LAND AND SEA 2026

PRICING

Single Occupancy
$ 8999
00
per person
  • EGYPT BY LAND AND SEA 2026

important information

PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY

  • There will be a maximum of 26 Sisters including your Sisterhood Travels Group Leaders. Roommate matching is available.
  • International airfare is not included in your pricing. You will fly roundtrip Cairo (CAI)
  • You can arrive at any time on March 3, 2026. You can depart at any time on March 18, 2026
  • Check-in time at our arrival hotel is at 3:00 pm.
  • All international flight arrangements must be submitted to Sisterhood Travels on or before October 7, 2025. If you need help making flight arrangements, or to submit your independent flight arrangements, please click here for Airfare Information.
  • Arrival transfers are provided only on March 3, 2026, from the Cairo airport to our hotel. Departure transfers are only provided on March 18, 2026, from our hotel to the Cairo airport. If you arrive or depart outside these days and times, or you’re needing transfers or hotels elsewhere, you are responsible for making your own arrangements at your own expense.
  • Complete valid passport information is required on or before September 7, 2025. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel.
  • An Egyptian visa is required for this tour and will be obtained upon arrival. You will purchase this visa prior to getting in line for immigration but will be assisted by our local representative who will collect the visa fee of $25 USD in cash at that time. Rates are subject to change at any time based on Egyptian governing authorities.
  • The opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum is experiencing repeated delays. Once opening is confirmed, we will be pursuing ticketing and replacing the visit to the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities with a visit to the new museum.
  • The exact flight schedule for our group flights will be confirmed closer to departure. Please be aware that our departure from Cairo to Luxor will be at 6:30 am or earlier, requiring a 3:00 am departure from the hotel. Group flights are in economy class with no upgrades possible. We cannot accept seating requests. Flights are approximately 1 hour each way.
  • There is an additional cost to enter inside the Great Pyramid of Giza ($40 USD cash) and special tombs in the Valley of the Kings. Included in your price are the entrance fees to many sites and to some special tombs (King Tutankhamun and King Ramses VI tombs in the Valley of the Kings), but other special tombs/sites will be at your expense. Rates are subject to change at any time based on Egyptian governing authorities. Our Tour Director will facilitate these onside purchases with you on the day of the tour.
  • The Egyptian government charges a camera and/or video fee of approximately $18 USD cash, per camera, for taking photos or video inside any enclosed sites such as tombs.
  • Please don’t schedule any optional excursions on your own for this trip, as we cannot promise that you will arrive in time at any location to make your independent excursion. Sisterhood Travels won’t be liable for any expense you incur because of this.
  • Museum visits and shopping may be affected by observance of religious or local holidays. If traveling during the month of Ramadan, please note that the order of some features may vary and that some meal experiences may be replaced with meals in the hotel instead of local restaurants/venues. Ramadan and Eid observances are expected to fall between the evening of February 17, 2026, and the evening of March 22, 2026.
  • Individual gratuities for your Tour Director, local guides, and drivers are not included in your pricing. We will provide you with tipping guidelines for your trip
  • Travel Insurance is strongly recommended and is not included in your pricing. We will send you a quote via email.
  • We cannot accommodate wheelchairs, assistive devices, scooters, walkers or rollators, or Zimmer-frames. You must be able to ambulate independently with no assistance from devices or others on the trip. It is imperative that you read the activity level description below.
  • There are no refunds for unused portions of this tour.
  • Dates and times of itinerary as well as hotels listed are subject to change without notice due to operational, weather, or logistical reasons.
  • Any optional expenses or expenses related to anything not specifically listed in this itinerary are not included.
  • You will receive an invitation soon after you book your trip for our travel app, “Trip Plans”. You will need to download this app to your smart phone as this is where you will find the most up-to-date, accurate information regarding your itinerary in addition to all of the critical information you need to know.

Need a Roommate?

Cancellation & Refunds

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS ABOUT THE ACTIVITY LEVEL FOR THIS TOUR

  • Our itinerary includes many activities that require walking on uneven terrain and sand. Visiting tombs, temples and pyramids requires climbing and descending steep staircases and/or ramps with limited or no help from handrails. You must be in good physical condition and able to ambulate completely independently to keep pace with our group and this active itinerary.
  • Some of the most unique sightseeing on our tour can mean accessing locations that restrict motor coaches, especially in historic areas and archaeological sites. Visiting the Great Pyramid of Pharaoh Cheops in Giza requires agility as you will have to climb up steep, narrow steps (approximately 1-1 ½ feet tall, on the side of the Pyramid without the help of handrails. From there, you can access the inner chamber and will need to crouch and at times to crawl up the 300-foot narrow shaft with minimal help of handrails. This is generally not suitable for people who suffer from claustrophobia.
  • Our tour includes many early-morning departures. While in Cairo and Luxor, we may depart sometime between 3 am and 5 am to transfer to the airport for our group flights. Additionally, in order to ensure that we profit from the coolest hours of the day and reach the sites ahead of larger crowds, you should expect to depart our hotel or ship between 5:30 am – 7:30 am.
Activity Level 4

Activity Level:

Busy

This is a consistently robust itinerary that is likely to be filled with a combination of long, active days, several early hotel departures and some long journeys by coach. There may be limited time for rest and rejuvenation as you explore these amazing destinations. There may be multiple flights and travel by non-traditional means such as safari vehicles, rickshaws/pedicabs, etc. Guests should have reasonable health and mobility and be capable of walking 1-2 miles over time over potentially difficult terrain which may include hills. Guests should be comfortable with standing for longer periods of time with no difficulty.