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egypt tour, africa travel, egypt vacation, vacations, world tours
2010 – 12 Days from $4,900 plus on-tour airfare
Tauck's expert Egyptologists invite you to delve into a fascinating civilization where architectural feats and antiquities still amaze thousands of years after their creation - an intriguing land of pyramids, temples, colossal statues, mummies, golden treasures, and hieroglyphic symbols! Our comprehensive Egypt tour includes a ride atop a camel and a sound & light show at the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx at Giza; a sunset cocktail cruise aboard a traditional felucca; stays at Egypt's finest hotels - including Pyramid-view rooms in Cairo, a Tauck exclusive - and visits to the temple complexes of Luxor, the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, Old Cairo, the Egyptian Museum and more. And of course, no Egypt tour is complete without a cruise along the River Nile; Tauck guests spend four nights aboard Nile Adventurer, one of the best ships on the ancient river.

2010 Itinerary


Day 1 - Welcome to Cairo
Tauck's Egypt tour begins at the Mena House Oberoi.  A transfer is included from Cairo International Airport to your hotel, a sumptuous former royal hunting lodge. Your room looks out on to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramids of Giza. Since most international flights arrive between 3:00 and 11:00 PM local time, you might want to consider traveling to Egypt a day early and arrange a pre-stay in Cairo to ease the effects of jet lag before the first day of sightseeing on your Egypt tour begins.
Meals: A snack in your hotel room upon late arrival
Lodging: Mena House Oberoi, Cairo, Egypt

Day 2 - The Sphinx, the Great Pyramid, and a camel ride
A visit to the Pyramids is on every world-traveler's must-see list, and is an iconic image of your Egypt tour. After meeting Tauck's local Egyptologist this morning, visit the Solar Boat Museum, whose main attraction is an ancient Egyptian cedarwood boat dating back 4,500 years. At Giza, see the Sphinx guarding the plateau, as it has for the same 4,500 years. Marvel at the Great Pyramid of Cheops (Khufu), a crowning architectural achievement. Cap the day with a camel ride* at the Pyramids. Attend a welcome cocktail reception and dinner this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Mena House Oberoi, Cairo, Egypt

Day 3 - Pyramids galore in Memphis, Sakkara and Dahshur
Travel to the site of ancient Egypt's first capital, Memphis, for a look at some of Egypt's oldest antiquities; you'll see the Alabaster Sphinx and an imposing statue of Ramesses II. In Sakkara, visit the Teti Pyramid, and view the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world's first monumental structure built of stone. Continue off-the-beaten-path to the less-often visited necropolis at Dahshur for a look at the numerous pyramids and temples there, including a Tauck Exclusive - entry into the private tomb of one of the early mastabas at the site.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Lodging: Mena House Oberoi, Cairo, Egypt

Day 4 - Luxor, the Temple of Karnak and a felucca cruise
Take a private charter flight to Luxor, site of ancient Thebes, where your Egypt tour continues at the vast Temple of Karnak, built over a span of 1,300 years and one of the world's largest temple complexes; explore it with our expert Egyptologist. Next up is a guided visit to the Luxor Museum, displaying rich archeological finds from the temples and tombs of Upper Egypt. Later, enjoy a sunset cocktail cruise on the Nile aboard a traditional felucca, followed by dinner at a choice of restaurants at your hotel - where your room overlooks Egypt's timeless river!
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor, Egypt

• Day 5 - Valleys of the Kings & Queens, Luxor & your cruise
On a major highlight of your Egypt tour, visit the Valley of the Kings, where at least 62 ornately decorated tombs for the pharaohs were hidden. Our Egyptologist accompanies your exploration of the Valley of the Queens, revealing 80 tombs of royal family members; see Medinet Habu. Board the Nile Adventurer for the start of your 4-night cruise along the Nile. After settling into your cabin, go ashore and ride a horse-drawn carriage to the Temple of Luxor - noted for its avenue of sphinxes, grand colonnades, and colossal statues of Ramesses II - for a spectacular evening visit. Join us for a welcome dinner featuring belly dancers and entertainment back aboard the ship tonight.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard Nile Adventurer

• Day 6 - A day on the Nile and a visit to Esna
Spend a day cruising the Nile, glimpsing life along the ancient river's banks. Arrive in Esna for visits to its Greco-Roman antiquities including the Temple of Khnum, constructed during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Back aboard ship, a cooking demonstration, private galley tour and afternoon tea await. This evening, enjoy Egyptian wine and local beer at the Captain's welcome reception aboard the Nile Adventurer.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard Nile Adventurer

• Day 7 - Cruising to Edfu and celebrating Egyptian culture
Continue your Egypt tour with another day on the amazing River Nile. After a morning at leisure aboard ship, you'll travel to Edfu for visits to the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Horus and the ancient stone quarries nearby. Join your shipmates tonight for a special evening featuring traditional Egyptian dress, cuisine, dancing and entertainment.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard Nile Adventurer

• Day 8 - Kom Ombo, Aswan and a shipboard farewell
Discoveries abound on the last day of your unforgettable Nile cruise, as your Egypt tour takes you to see the unusual double temples of Kom Ombo, then on to Aswan for a motorboat ferry ride to the Philae Temple on Agilka Island; dedicated to Isis, it was moved to its present location to save it from the rising waters caused by the building of the new Aswan Dam. You'll also see the Unfinished Obelisk, still in the quarry where its carving was begun thousands of years ago. Tonight, the Captain and crew of Nile Adventurer bid you farewell at a gala dinner served by white-gloved waiters.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aboard Nile Adventurer

Day 9 - Across the desert to Abu Simbel and a flight to Cairo
After disembarking Nile Adventurer in Aswan, set out across a corner of the Sahara Desert for Abu Simbel, in what was once the ancient kingdom of Nubia. Marvel at the Great Temple honoring Ramesses II - carved out of a cliff, with four 67-foot-high seated statues of the pharaoh at the entrance - and the adjacent Temple of Hathor, dedicated to his wife, Queen Nefertari. Fly to Cairo by private charter for a three-night stay at your hotel in the city's heart; enjoy stunning Nile views from the balcony of your room.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Semiramis InterContinental Cairo, Egypt

Day 10 - Egyptian Museum and the "Boy King's" treasures
Explore the Egyptian Museum's world-renowned collection of antiquities, many 5,000 years old, for yet another memorable experience on Tauck's Egypt tour. Behold treasures found in the tomb of the "Boy King," Tutankhamun, including his golden funeral mask, solid gold coffin, carved throne, and jewelry. "Meet" ancient rulers, including the mighty Ramesses II, face-to-face in the Royal Mummy Room. This evening's elaborate sound and light show at the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx in Giza is a spectacular way to end an unforgettable day.
Meals: Breakfast
Lodging: Semiramis InterContinental Cairo, Egypt

Day 11 - Discovering Old Cairo
A lecture by a professor of modern Egyptian history kicks off your day, followed by a walking tour of Old Cairo that visits the Church of St. Sergius, a 5th-century Coptic Christian Church; Ben Ezra Synagogue, built in 882; and the Amr ibn al-As Mosque, the first mosque on the continent of Africa; and the tomb of 20th-century Egyptian ruler King Farouk. Be sure to join us for a special farewell dinner tonight to share the amazing memories you've created with your fellow travelers as your extraordinary Egypt tour concludes.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Semiramis InterContinental Cairo, Egypt

Day 12 - Bound for home
Tour ends at Cairo. A transfer is included from the Semiramis InterContinental Cairo to Cairo International Airport; allow a minimum of 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in.
Meals: Breakfast

For activities marked with an asterisk(*), participation is at your own risk and a signed liability waiver will be required.

Join Tauck's professional Egyptologists for an exciting Egypt tour featuring a 4-night Nile River cruise - book today!



Inclusive Prices


Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, motor coach transportation, entertainment, special dinners, sightseeing, porterage, and the services of local guides, drivers and the Tauck Director are included. Transportation from Cairo International Airport to Mena House Oberoi is included, regardless of the date and time of your arrival, provided you have furnished us with accurate flight or train arrival information at least two weeks prior to the start of your tour. Transportation from the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo to Cairo International Airport is also included whenever you decide to depart. Transportation to and from airports and train stations may be shared with other Tauck guests.

Hotel Accommodations
– The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality of accommodations may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are not available on this tour.

Meals – Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.

Tauck Director –Egypt: Jewels Along The Nile” is conducted by a Tauck Director who remains with the group throughout the duration of the tour. Your Tauck Director is a professional, fully-trained employee of Tauck.

Gratuities Included – All customary gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff and local guides are included.

No Options Sold - Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.
 

On-Tour Flights


Airfare While on Tour – There are two on-tour flights which must be purchased through us as part of your tour package.
 

Not Included


Airfare to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included. Airfare may be purchased from us for travel originating in the United States.

Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours – To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult the Extend This Journey section on this webpage and discuss it with your reservations sales consultant or your travel agent when you book your tour.

Luggage Responsibility – Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to Tauck Travel Protection on this webpage for more information.

Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:
  • Pack at least one change of clothing in your carry-on bag
  • Split your items between your suitcase and a traveling companion's suitcase
  • Do not pack any vital medications or valuables in your checked luggage
  • Confirm that your luggage is checked and tagged to your final destination at airport check-in
  • Place your luggage claim tags in a secure place for your flight
  • File a claim for any missing luggage immediately before leaving the baggage claim area
  • Secure a case number and contact information for follow-up communications
  • Make certain that the airline has your onward itinerary
Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.

Personal Expenses - such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.

Tauck Director Gratuities - The customary gratuities for the Tauck Director and local drivers are not included. We ask that gratuities be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group.

 

Additional Information


Airline Security Measures –

If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Secure Flight program requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver’s license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.

If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.

For more information on the Secure Flight program, please visit the TSA website by clicking here.

If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S, you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.

Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.

Air Services – Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). We must handle ticketing for our special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Our air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a one of our tours. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air booking before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.

Cruise Regulations – International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser until you disembark.

Holidays and Museum Closures – Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many , religious and civic holidays locally observed.You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.

Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – We pledge to make every effort to operate all tours as advertised. We reserve the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by us. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.

Journey Start and End Times are provided at time of booking.You or your agent will be advised of any changes. When making flight arrangements, allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs.Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.

Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any persons who are abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.

Photography on Tour – Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other media promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.

 

Preparing To Go


Travel Document Requirements –

If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport with at least two blank visa pages and an expiration date of at least six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey. U.S. citizens are also required to obtain a visa.

U.S. citizens may obtain their Egypt visas in one of the three following ways:
 
1.       A renewable, 30-day tourist visa may be easily obtained on arrival at Cairo International Airport. The cost is currently $15, payable in U.S. dollars only. Visitors arriving overland and/or those previously experiencing difficulty with their visa status in Egypt should obtain a visa prior to arrival. 
2.       Tauck has partnered with Zierer Visa Service for processing visas to destinations in which U.S. citizens are required to have an entry visa. Over the past several years, Zierer Visa Service has effectively processed hundreds of visas for Tauck travelers. Tauck will automatically send a visa application once a reservation is made and the deposit received. The visa fee, as well as any applicable consular fees and shipping fees, are not included in the tour cost, and payment should be mailed with the completed application directly to the visa service. The amount of the visa fee varies by destination and will be stated on the application.

For more information or to download a Zierer Visa Service application, please log on to their Internet website by clicking here. To speak directly with ZVS Customer Service, call 866-788-1100 (toll-free in the U.S.). Please note that visas cannot be processed more than 90 days prior to departure and that the process will take several weeks.
 
3.       A visa may be obtained directly through an Egyptian Consulate. For more information, log on to the Internet website by clicking here.
Citizens of other countries should contact an embassy or consulate of Egypt to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact a consulate or embassy of each of the countries visited on this itinerary to determine what travel documentation is required.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, date of expiration and your citizenship, as well as the front and back sides of your driver’s license. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Travel with Children –
 
Age Recommendations ― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, we have a minimum recommended age for each journey to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.

Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.

Safety and Welfare Responsibility
― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.

Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel

If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. CBP also suggests that this note be notarized. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.

If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.

All children who are U.S. citizens should also have a certified copy of their birth certificate or baptism record for ID. Children over the age of 14 are also required to have a photo ID.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, we require you to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information may be obtained from a country’s consulate or embassy.

Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment

In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.

We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.

Air Conditioning – All hotels and the Nile Adventurer provide air conditioning.

ATM and Credit Cards ― We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on this tour to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be "suspicious" charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Clothing and Packing -

Egypt has import restrictions on certain “high value” personal items.
Please read the section on “Customs” below.


Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required.

It is inadvisable for women to wear anything short or sleeveless unless on the beach or by a pool so as not to offend local custom.

When visiting churches and mosques, women are not allowed to enter with bare shoulders or short pants or short skirts. A scarf is acceptable to cover shoulders if women are wearing a sleeveless top. Head covering is not required. Men should also dress appropriately for a holy sanctuary. Shorts are discouraged. Women and men will be required to remove their shoes in mosques.

Both the Oberoi Mena House and the InterContinental Semiramis  have laundry facilities and dry cleaning service. Laundry service is available aboard the Nile Adventurer, but there are no dry cleaning facilities on board.

We recommend that you pack your prescription medicines (an adequate supply to last through your journey) along with your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We suggest you pack the following items for your journey:
  • Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
  • An optional jacket and tie for men
  • Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
  • Swimwear
  • Gym wear
  • A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
  • Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
  • Insect repellent
  • Eye drops for the dust when visiting Pyramids and temples
  • Wash-and-dry or antiseptic cleaner
  • Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and/or plenty of film
  • Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
  • Battery-operated travel alarm clock
  • Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
  • Zipper-lock bags
  • Daypack for camera equipment
  • Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
  • Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling


Elevation - The maximum elevation on this tour is 1,200 feet, or 366 meters.

Health -  To enjoy this tour all travelers to Egypt should be in reasonably good health. There is a significant amount of walking on this tour and archaeological sites and temple floors are far from even. Guests who require assistance walking may not be able to fully participate in the sightseeing.

If you have a medical condition which might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to guests for walking, dining or other personal needs. Persons needing such assistance must be accompanied by an able companion who will assist them.

Special Health Information for this Tour:

The Nile Adventurer does not have an elevator; you will need to navigate two flights of stairs to access guest cabins and public areas. We regret that wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. Disembarking the riverboat requires walking down many steps to a narrow gangway. The steepness and the number of steps depend upon the river water level.

Tap water in hotels, restaurants and aboard the Nile Adventurer is not potable. Use caution when eating salad items that may have been washed in tap water. Always drink bottled water with an unbroken seal. Well-known brands of bottled beverages are generally considered to be safe. For the first few days, it may be advisable to clean your teeth with bottled water. Avoid having ice in drinks unless you are confident it has been made with bottled water.

Eating uncooked vegetables should be avoided. Eat fruit that you can peel, and make sure fresh fruit has been washed. Wash your hands before and after eating. Most meals on this Egypt tour are in hotel restaurants where cleanliness is good and they are used to catering to westerners.

There is a physician on board the Nile Adventurer.

Smoking is very common in Egypt. As a result, few restaurants and hotels have nonsmoking sections. A “non-smoking” room often means the establishment has removed the ashtray. Where possible, we have requested non-smoking rooms and non-smoking sections of restaurants.

On board the Nile Adventurer, smoking is only permitted on the outer decks. Smoking is not allowed in cabins or in public areas. Smoking is not permitted on motor coaches used during shore excursions.

If you are a resident of the U.S., please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries on the itinerary to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

Luggage Restrictions:

Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour


Due to space limitations aboard motor coaches and on-tour flights, only one average-size piece of checked luggage per person, weighing up to 44 pounds, or 20 kilograms, is allowed. Luggage exceeding these restrictions is at risk of being left behind, or, if permitted on board, may be subject to additional excess luggage charges.

In addition, guests are limited to one soft-sided, carry-on bag per person weighing no more than 15 lbs, or 6.8 kg, and no larger than an average knapsack.

Checked Luggage – General

While it is common for airlines to allow passengers to check more than one piece of luggage per person, space constraints during your Tauck journey make it difficult to accommodate extra luggage. We ask that you limit your checked luggage to one average size suitcase per person.

Recently, airlines have adopted policies enforcing strict number, size and weight limits. Luggage exceeding maximum restrictions may require expensive overage fees, frustrating and hurried re-packing at the ticket counter, or even risk being left behind.

Many carriers require that checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, we cannot be held liable for the accuracy of the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current number, weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage number, weight and size may vary with the same airline based on the class of service you select. First and Business Class ticket holders may have different restrictions than Coach Class travelers. You may wish to consult the website, luggagelimits.com, by clicking here,

We cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage number, weight and size policies.

Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!

Carry-on Luggage – General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

 

Destination Information


Cell Phones - We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone while on the motor coach, during group functions, when sightseeing and when your Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make and receive calls at times when it does not affect others.

Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine if your service extends to Egypt.

Currency and Exchange Rates - The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). The currency exchange is set on a national level; therefore, all exchange places offer the same rate. Most hotels have a bank in the hotel. There are also ATM machines in many locations. Few establishments accept travelers’ checks. Contact your bank in advance of departure to determine whether you will be able to use your credit card or ATM card in Egypt. Should you have any questions, your Tauck Director will be happy to assist you.

To obtain the most current exchange rates for all national currencies, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to oanda.com by clicking here.

Important Note - Personal incidental accounts aboard the Nile Adventurer may be settled in cash (U.S. dollars), travelers’ checks, American Express, Visa or MasterCard. There is no foreign exchange facility on the ship.

Customs and Tax-Free Shopping –

Import Regulations: "High value" articles that a traveler brings to Egypt - particularly computers and camcorders, but also including cameras, typewriters, tape recorders, VCR's and other electronic items - must be declared upon entry, be listed on the traveler's passport, and be duly exported at the conclusion of the visit. If "high value" items are not re-exported at the time of departure, duty must be paid. In the case of certain electronic and computer goods, duty can be as high as 100%. Cigarettes and alcohol are permitted in limited amounts. Duty-free camera film is limited to 25 rolls for still cameras and 10 reels for movie cameras.

If you are a U.S resident who will be returning to the U.S. at the end of the tour, you are entitled to a duty-free exemption based on the total value of merchandise purchase abroad, as long as you physically bring them with you. There are limits to the amount of alcohol that can be a part of this exemption. Certain restrictions apply to unaccompanied goods mailed from abroad to the U.S. Please call your local customs office or consult the U.S. government's customs regulations as contained in their publication entitled Know Before You Go.

If you are a resident of another country
, please refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.

Many countries levy Value Added Taxes (VAT) on consumer goods and services. (The tax rate may be higher for luxury items and lower for basic goods.) As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country (or of the country’s intergovernmental economic community, e.g., the European Union) in which the purchase is made, you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.

Electrical Current - The electrical current in Egypt and onboard the Nile Adventurer is 220v, 50 Hz, and sockets take the standard continental European dual round-pronged plug. Guests whose appliances do not meet this standard will need to bring the appropriate converters and adapters. These items can be purchased in a store that specializes in travel products.

Internet Access – Most hotels on this itinerary offer complimentary or fee-based Internet access. Please inquire at time of booking.

Time Zones – Egypt is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the timeanddate.com by clicking here.

Weather - Egypt has one of the hottest and sunniest climates in the world, although on the whole, it can be best described as mild. While the midsummer months can get quite hot, the heat is less taxing than elsewhere because of low humidity. Rainy days are few and far between in Cairo, and nearly unknown in Upper Egypt. Cairo can be chilly from December to February, averaging from 60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, or 15.5 to 20 degrees Celsius, and very hot from June to September, averaging from 85 to 95 F, or 29.5 to 35 C. The heat is often relieved by a northerly breeze with temperatures dropping during the night. Therefore, it would be wise to pack both lightweight and warm clothing.
 

Climate Chart

 
Average Temperature
 
Cairo, Egypt
Luxor, Egypt
Month
Hi/Lo ºF
Hi/Lo ºC
Hi/Lo ºF
Hi/Lo ºC
January
68 / 50
20 / 10
74 / 49
23 / 9
February
68 / 50
20 / 10
74 / 49
23 / 9
March
73 / 54
23 / 12
83 / 56
28 / 13
April
82 / 59
28 / 15
93 / 65
34 / 18
May
89 / 64
32 / 18
100 / 71
38 / 22
June
93 / 70
34 / 21
104 / 76
40 / 24
July
93 / 72
34 / 22
104 / 78
40 / 26
August
92 / 72
33 / 22
102 / 77
39 / 25
September
90 / 69
32 / 21
99 / 74
37 / 23
October
85 / 65
29 / 18
93 / 68
34 / 20
November
75 / 58
24 / 14
81 / 56
27 / 13
December
67 / 51
19 / 11
75 / 48
24 / 9

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to weather.com by clicking here.

 

If You Have to Cancel


Cancellation Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations of confirmed bookings result in our incurring costly penalties and cancellation fees from our travel and hotel providers. Therefore, if you have to cancel a confirmed booking, we will charge you a cancellation fee according to when your cancellation notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office. To help limit your liability, please refer to Tauck Travel Protection on this webpage for more information.

If you choose not to purchase Tauck Travel Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, you will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
 
60 days or more before departure
$700 per person

59-8 days before departure
$1400 per person

7-1 days before departure
$2000 per person
 

Did you know that you can link-up Tauck itineraries to create longer journeys? Many of these trips are in the same region, and depending upon availability you might connect with them before or after your trip. Alternatively, you might find one of these options better suited for your interests and preferences or for when you are available to travel.

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