15 Days Egypt and Morocco Tour: Pharaohs, Nile Cruise, Sahara Desert, Medinas

On this day, depending on your flight schedule, our team will meet you at the arrival hall of Cairo International Airport and transfer you to your hotel in downtown Cairo.

The rest of the day is at your leisure. If you would like to enjoy a Nile River dinner cruise, please let us know, and we will be happy to arrange it for you.

Optional Nile River Dinner Experience:

Enjoy an unforgettable evening on the Nile River. We will pick you up and take you to a deluxe cruise ship. Savor a delicious dinner while watching traditional belly dancing and a Tannura show. Enjoy beautiful night views of Cairo Tower and illuminated riverbanks from the sundeck. It is about 2-hour evening dinner experience. After that, our guide will take you back to your hotel.

After breakfast, it is time to drive to Giza for an amazing day for ancient wonders of Egypt. 30-minute drive takes you to the Giza Plateau.

Upon arrival, your Egyptologist guide will unveil the history and mysteries of the three iconic pyramids: Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. These structures stand as the only surviving wonder of the ancient world. You will enjoy some free time to explore, with the option to step inside a pyramid's burial chamber (optional; guides are not permitted inside).

Next, you will drive across the plateau to a panoramic viewpoint. This is the perfect spot to photograph all three pyramids rising from the desert sands against the distant Cairo skyline.

Then, visit the Valley Temple of Khafre, an ancient site adjacent to the Great Sphinx. It was historically used for the purification and mummification rituals of the pharaoh before burial.

A short drive to the edge of the plateau brings you to the feet of the Great Sphinx. This legendary monument measures 190 feet long and 65 feet high. Carved from a single massive block of limestone, it features the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, standing as a loyal guardian over the royal tombs.

After exploring Giza, you can head directly to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). The Grand Egyptian Museum is the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilization. It brings 5,000 years of history to life through more than 100,000 incredible artifacts. As you walk in, you are greeted by a colossal statue of Ramesses II before exploring 12 massive exhibition halls. The absolute highlight is King Tutankhamun’s complete tomb collection. For the first time since its 1920s discovery, his golden mask, inner coffins, royal thrones, and the ancient Khufu Solar Boat are all fully displayed together in one place.

After that, drive back to Cairo for accommodation.

On this day, you will be transferred to the Cairo Airport for your morning flight to Aswan (1h 20m).

Upon your arrival in Aswan, your local Egyptologist guide will meet you at the airport to begin your 4 days 3 nights luxury Nile cruise (5 star).

Your journey starts this afternoon as we explore the highlights of Aswan:

First, we drive to the Aswan High Dam. Often called the "Second Pyramid" of Egypt, this massive feat of modern engineering tamed the mighty Nile and created Lake Nasser, one of the world’s largest artificial reservoirs. From the observation deck, you’ll get a panoramic view of the dam’s 3.6-kilometer span and the striking contrast between the vast, still reservoir and the flowing river below.

Next, we take a short boat ride to the Philae Temple, widely known as the "Pearl of the Nile." This temple is a stunning blend of Ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman architecture. Built in the 4th century BC as a home for the Goddess Isis, it is one of the most romantic and beautifully preserved sites in Egypt. The temple has a fascinating history - it was meticulously moved stone-by-stone to its current island home to save it from the rising waters of the Nile. As you walk through the complex, you’ll see the Temple of Isis, Hadrian’s Gate, and the iconic Kiosk of Trajan, with its elegant columns perfectly reflected in the water.

Finally, we visit the Unfinished Obelisk. This is a fascinating look into the past - it’s the largest single piece of stone ever carved by humans. Commissioned by Queen Hatshepsut 3,500 years ago, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient construction techniques. Had it been completed, it would have stood 42 meters tall (as high as a 14-story building) and weighed an incredible 1,200 tons. You can still see the cracks that forced the ancient builders to abandon it, leaving it as a permanent monument to their ambition.

After the tour, you will be transferred to your deluxe cruise ship to check in. Enjoy a relaxing lunch and dinner on board as you settle in for your first night on the Nile.

On this day, enjoy breakfast onboard your Nile cruise in Aswan.

After the visit, drive back to Aswan and return to the cruise before 1:00 PM for lunch. The cruise then continues its sailing journey south along the Nile.

Kom Ombo Temple

In the afternoon, sail toward Kom Ombo and visit the uniquely designed Kom Ombo Temple, located just a short walk from the riverbank. Built during the Ptolemaic period around 180 BC, this remarkable temple is dedicated to two gods—Horus the Elder and Sobek.

As you explore its symmetrical layout, discover the northern side dedicated to Horus, the falcon god of protection and justice, and the southern side devoted to Sobek, the crocodile god associated with fertility and strength.

Your guide will highlight fascinating carvings on the temple walls, including ancient surgical instruments that reveal early medical knowledge, as well as a stone calendar marking Egypt’s three agricultural seasons: flooding, planting, and harvest.

Before leaving, visit the open-air courtyard to see the ancient well and the Crocodile Museum, where mummified crocodiles offer a rare glimpse into the religious significance of Sobek worship.

After the visit, return to the cruise and spend the rest of the day relaxing on deck as the ship continues its journey along the Nile. Enjoy dinner onboard and overnight on the cruise.

After breakfast on board, we will take a short 3.5 km drive from the pier to the Temple of Edfu.

Morning: The "Textbook" Temple of Edfu

Often called the "textbook" of Egyptian architecture, this temple is a true marvel. Because it lay buried under desert sands for nearly two millennia, it remained hidden from the world until the 19th century. As a result, over 95% of the structure - from the soaring roof and towering columns to the secret inner chambers - is still perfectly intact.

Standing before the massive 36-meter-high entrance pylon, you will be dwarfed by the two imposing black granite statues of Horus, the falcon god, standing guard. As you walk through the temple, take a moment to look at the thick outer walls, which are covered in vivid reliefs depicting the epic battle between good and evil.

Inside, you’ll notice the ceiling is darkened - a fascinating scar from history when the temple was used as a shelter by early inhabitants. Your guide will lead you through the hidden chambers, including the ancient "perfume laboratory" where priests once crafted sacred scents, and walk you through the corridor reliefs that vividly tell the story of Horus defeating the forces of chaos.

Esna Lock Crossing:

Today, your Nile cruise passes through the fascinating Esna Lock, an important waterway between Luxor and Edfu. Get on the sundeck and watch as the ship enters the lock chamber enjoy this unique engineering experience. Tip: The passage usually takes 20-60 minutes, but may be longer if several ships are waiting.

Afternoon: Sailing to Luxor & Sunset at Luxor Temple

Spend the afternoon unwinding on the sundeck as we sail toward Luxor, watching the lush Nile banks drift by.

Upon our arrival in Luxor, we head to the Luxor Temple at the perfect time - just before sunset. Arriving during the "golden hour" is an unforgettable experience. You can stand in awe before the towering statues of Ramesses II and the monumental pink granite obelisk, watching the soft, angled light bring out the intricate details of the ancient carvings that have guarded this sanctuary for centuries.

As the daytime heat fades, you will stroll down the famous Avenue of Sphinxes. The long shadows cast by the setting sun give the giant pharaonic columns a dramatic, imposing presence, making the history of these ancient kings feel incredibly real.

After the tour, we will return to your cruise ship and enjoy dinner on board.

Overnight on board in Luxor.

After breakfast, check out from your Nile River cruise (between 08:00 and 09:00) and meet your private guide to begin your final day exploring Luxor.

West Bank: Into the Afterlife

We start our morning on the West Bank, the ancient "City of the Dead." Our first stop is the Valley of the Kings. Tucked away in a hidden desert valley beneath the Al-Qurn peak, this was the secret burial ground for New Kingdom pharaohs. Your guide will take you inside three of the most impressive tombs, where you can walk through corridors still vibrant with 3,000-year-old paintings. Seeing the vivid reds, yellows, and blues of the afterlife scenes is a truly surreal experience.

(Note: If you wish to visit the special tombs of Tutankhamun, Seti I, or Ramesses VI, your guide can assist with purchasing those extra tickets on-site.)

Next, we visit the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. This is arguably the most photogenic site in Luxor. Built for Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh, the temple is carved directly into the limestone cliffs, rising in three dramatic, elegant terraces. It feels less like a ruin and more like a work of modern architecture from the ancient world.

Before leaving the West Bank, we make a quick photo stop at the Colossi of Memnon. These two giant stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III have stood guard over the Theban plain for over 3,000 years—they are the perfect final image of the West Bank.

East Bank: The City of the Living

In this afternoon, we cross the Nile to the East Bank to explore the Karnak Temple Complex. This isn't just a temple; it’s the largest religious site ever built in the ancient world.

We begin our walk along the famous Avenue of Sphinxes, the ceremonial path that once linked the temples. As you pass through the monumental gateway, you’ll enter the Great Hypostyle Hall. Standing among these 134 massive sandstone columns is a "wow" moment—the central pillars soar over 21 meters high, creating a stone forest that makes you feel incredibly small.

Your guide will lead you through the sacred lakes, towering obelisks, and hidden chapels, sharing stories of the pharaohs who built this place over two millennia. It feels less like a museum and more like stepping back in time.

In this afternoon, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Cairo (1h 10m). When land in Cairo, be transferred to your hotel in Cairo.

Enjoy a leisure day in Cairo to unwind before your Morocco adventure begins. Or, maximize your time with an day trip to Alexandria.

Alternative - Alexandria Day Tour: Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, Citadel of Qaitbay, Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Following an early breakfast, your private tour begins with a 3-hour scenic drive north to Alexandria in a modern, fully air-conditioned vehicle.

Upon arrival, dive straight into the city’s rich Greco-Roman heritage at the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. This fascinating three-tiered subterranean complex masterfully blends ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural and burial styles.

Just a short drive away, visit the towering Pompey’s Pillar, a massive red Aswan granite column that stands proudly amidst the ruins of the ancient Serapeum temple.

After a break for lunch overlooking the sea, head to the coast to explore the Citadel of Qaitbay. This majestic 15th-century defensive fortress was built on the exact site—and using the salvaged stones—of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Conclude your coastal exploration at the ultra-modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Alexandria Library), a stunning architectural masterpiece built to commemorate the magnificent ancient Great Library of Alexandria.

Later in the afternoon, relax in cool comfort as your driver escorts you on the 3-hour return journey back to Cairo.

Take a 5.5h flight from Cairo to Casablanca. Welcome to Morocco! Upon your arrival at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport, our local team will be waiting at the arrivals hall to warmly greet you.

(Traveler Tip: The airport is located about 30 km south of the city center. The drive to the downtown area takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.)

Once downtown, you will dive straight into an immersive half-day city tour, uncovering the best of Casablanca:

Hassan II Mosque: Your exploration begins at this magnificent 20th-century engineering marvel. Approaching from the coastal promenade, you will catch your first breathtaking view of its exterior—one-third of this massive structure is built directly over the Atlantic Ocean bed, with its 210-meter minaret towering into the sky. You will then step inside the grand prayer hall with your guide to admire the retractable roof, delicate mosaic tilework, and colossal chandeliers up close.

Old Medina: From the mosque, a short drive brings you to Casablanca's historic heart. Encircled by 18th-century defensive walls, this vibrant quarter is a living labyrinth of narrow alleys. You will spend time walking through its buzzing traditional souks, artisan stalls, and open-air food markets, catching an authentic glimpse of daily Moroccan life.

Rick’s Café Photo Stop: Just a few minutes from the Medina walls sits Rick’s Café. For anyone who loves classic cinema, this is the ultimate pitstop—a beautiful recreation of the saloon from the legendary Hollywood film Casablanca. We will stop here to capture a photo outside its iconic facade, soaking in the vintage, romantic atmosphere.

The Habous Quarter: Next, move on to this elegant neighborhood, affectionately known as the "New Medina." Built by French architects in the 1920s, it features orderly archways, clean cobblestone streets, and exquisite Moorish design. (Tip: This is the perfect place to pause for a classic Moroccan tea break, unwinding just like a local with a fresh, hot glass of sweet mint tea.)

Mohammed V Square: A short drive leads you to the civic heart of Casablanca, famously nicknamed "Pigeon Square" by travelers. This grand plaza is surrounded by beautiful 1920s government buildings showcasing a unique mix of Moorish and French Art Deco architecture. Take a moment to relax by the central fountain and watch the flocks of pigeons weave between the historic facades.

The Central Market (Marché Central): Continue your sensory journey by dipping into this historic marketplace. Built in 1917, this beautiful Neo-Moorish market is Casablanca’s premier melting pot for fresh seafood, exotic spices, and local ingredients. Spend about 20 minutes exploring its lively lanes, watching locals shop, and taking in the rich aromas of the spice pyramids.

Optional Experience (Depending on Your Flight Schedule):

Ain Diab & La Corniche: If time permits, head to the vibrant coastal district of Ain Diab. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the palm-lined promenade of La Corniche, watching the dramatic, wild Atlantic waves crash against the rocks. To elevate your evening, you can choose to enjoy oceanfront dining at a premium seafood or French-Moroccan restaurant perched right on the cliffside.

After the tour, escort you back to your hotel in Casablanca for a relaxing evening.

After breakfast, leave Casablanca behind and travel northeast toward the historic imperial city of Meknes (approx. 3 hours). Known as the "Moroccan Versailles," this 17th-century capital built by Sultan Moulay Ismaïl reflects raw royal majesty with a wonderfully authentic, crowd-free atmosphere.

Your exploration of Meknes includes:

Bab Mansour: Your first stop is this spectacular architectural masterpiece guarding the imperial palace. Completed in 1732, this iconic landmark showcases majestic Almohad arches, intricate green-and-brown Zellij tilework, and massive, deeply detailed columns salvaged from ancient Roman ruins.

Al-Hedim Square: Just outside the grand gate, step into the vibrant local square to sip on a glass of fresh mint tea - affectionately dubbed "Moroccan Whisky"—and watch the city's daily life unfold.

Mausoleum of Moulay Ismaïl: Next, walk to the final resting place of the legendary sultan, often called "Morocco’s Louis XIV." As one of the few royal shrines open to non-Muslims, this sanctuary offers a peaceful fusion of Alawite and Andalusian design, featuring quiet courtyards, carved stucco, and exquisite tilework centered around the marble tomb.

Leaving Meknes, a scenic 40-minute drive through rolling hills brings you to the ancient Archaeological Site of Volubilis, a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site and Morocco’s most significant Roman ruin.

Volubilis Roman Ruins: Step back in time as you walk the historic stone pathways of this ancient provincial capital. Guided by the pillars of classical urban planning, you will marvel at the monumental Arch of Caracalla, the grand Basilica, and remarkably preserved, vibrant mosaic floors still resting in their original settings.

After that, conclude your day with 1.5-hour drive to Fes. Stay overnight in Fes.

Today, spend the day walking in Fes, the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities and a living UNESCO medieval museum. This foremost of Morocco's four Imperial Cities boasts a completely car-free medina, leading travelers through a historic labyrinth of 9,000 winding alleyways and ancient souks.

Start your journey into the old town through Bab Boujloud, a famous gateway. Admire its classic Moorish design and the iconic two-colored tiles—blue for Fes and green for Islam—before walking straight onto the bustling main market streets.

Then, walk to Bou Inania Madrasa, Fes’s most magnificent Islamic college. This architectural masterpiece seamlessly blends Berber roots with Andalusian elegance. Walk through its serene courtyard to admire Morocco’s finest craftsmanship, where intricate stucco, detailed cedarwood, and vibrant Zellige mosaics create a timeless sanctuary.

Next, visit Al-Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri and recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest active university. Often called the "Oxford of the Islamic world," this spiritual center allows non-Muslims to admire its stunning green-tiled roofs and intricate Zellige courtyard from the entrance.

Then, witness Chouara Tannery, one of the world's oldest operating tanneries. Holding a fresh sprig of mint to mask the intense aromas, you’ll look down upon a breathtaking sea of multi-colored stone dye pools where local craftsmen continue an unchanged 11th-century tradition.

After that, drive up to the 14th-century Marinid Tombs for the ultimate panoramic view of Fes. Perched on a northern hill, these historic ruins of royal mausoleums offer an open, fence-free area where you can wander freely, capture stunning photos, and watch a breathtaking sunset over the sprawling medina below.

Overnight in Fes.

Optional: Moroccan brass engraving

This 3-hour workshop starts at 9:30 AM. Using a compass and ruler, you will master geometric layout—finding the center, drawing circles, and dividing them into precise segments. Clear steps make it effortlessly easy to follow.

Highlights: Alpine Landscapes, Cedar Forests & Barbary Macaques, Sahara Desert Gateway, Sunset Camel Trek or 4x4 Off-Road Drive, Traditional Berber Campfire Night.

Today, you will have epic journey south as the landscapes of Morocco transform dramatically before your eyes, taking you from alpine peaks to the rolling golden dunes of the Sahara.

Ifrane (The Switzerland of Morocco): Depart Fes and ascend into the crisp air of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Your first stop is Ifrane, a charming town that feels worlds away from the rest of Morocco. Built during the French protectorate era, it surprises travelers with its clean alpine architecture, sloped red roofs, and leafy parks.

The Ancient Cedar Forest: A short drive from Ifrane brings you into a majestic, ancient cedar forest. Here, you will pause to stretch your legs and spot families of wild Barbary macaques (local mountain monkeys) playing among the treetops.

Transition to the Dunes: Continue your drive through the rugged Ziz Valley, stopping in the town of Midelt. As the afternoon unfolds, watch the mountain greenery melt away into vast, raw desert horizons. By late afternoon, you will arrive at Merzouga - the golden gateway where the asphalt roads end and the massive Erg Chebbi sand dunes begin.

Into the Sahara (Choose Your Adventure): At the edge of the dunes, leave your main vehicle behind and choose how you wish to enter the deep desert wilderness:

Option A (The Classic Nomad Route): Embark on a peaceful, 1-to-2-hour Camel Trek as the sun dips lower, riding across waves of liquid-gold sand.

Option B (The Adrenaline Route): Hop into a rugged 4x4 vehicle for an exhilarating off-road drive across the crests of the dunes directly to your camp.

Under the Desert Stars: Savor a traditional Tagine dinner at your Comfort Desert Camp (private tents and bathrooms). Gather around a crackling bonfire for live Berber drumming under a spectacular canopy of stars.

Optional Upgrades: Khamlia Village for spiritual Gnawa music; Luxury Desert Camp with a swimming pool.

Highlights: Desert Sunrise, Authentic Rissani Market, Ancient Irrigation Engineering, 19th-Century UN-Awarded Mud Village, Majestic Todra Gorges, Panoramic Cliffside Stay.

Wake up early for an optional Sahara Sunrise and Sandboarding.

After leaving the dunes, visit Rissani, the historical cradle of the ruling dynasty. If traveling on market days (Tue/Thu/Sun), explore its vibrant donkey and spice markets.

Ancient Oasis Engineering: Drive to Tinejdad to see the Khettara, an ancient underground irrigation marvel. Nearby, explore Ksar El Khorbat, a beautifully preserved 19th-century mud-brick village named a UN "Best Tourism Village." Browse its Oasis Museum before lunch.

The High Canyons: Descend into the breathtaking Todra Gorges, where massive limestone walls rise 300 meters straight up. Continue to the Dades Gorges to admire the iconic serpentine Hairpin Bends as children play in the cool mountain streams.

Peaceful Cliffside Stay: To bypass the noise and vendors of the town center, check into your boutique hotel or Kasbah-style boutique guesthouse perched high on the cliffs of Boumalne Dades, featuring a panoramic sunset dinner.

Highlights: Valley of the Roses, Skoura Palm Groves, Hollywood of Africa (Film Studios), UNESCO Aït Ben Haddou, High Atlas Tizi n'Tichka Pass.

Rose Valleys & Green Oases: Depart Boumalne Dades and pass through the fragrant Valley of the Roses in Kelaa Megouna (Optional Spring Add-on: April-May Rose Festival & distillery visit). Next, enjoy a 10-minute deep-breath break in the lush Skoura Oasis, home to the famous Kasbah Amridil.

The Hollywood of Africa: Arrive in Ouarzazate (UNESCO) to tour legendary film studios where cinematic masterpieces like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were shot. Admire the historic Kasbah Taourirt, the former palatial residence of the Glaoui family.

The Golden Fortress: Explore the spectacular earthen citadel of Aït Ben Haddou (UNESCO). Wander through its clay labyrinth and climb to the summit for an unforgettable panoramic view of the ancient valley.

Crossing the Atlas: Navigate the dramatic bends of the High Atlas Mountains via the legendary Tizi n'Tichka Pass (2,260m), passing red-earth Berber Villages.

Arrive at your hotel or Riad in Marrakech by evening (estimated 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM).

Note: Occasional mountain road maintenance may cause brief, temporary pauses.

Service ends here in Marrakech, Morocco. For your next trip, consider adding Marrakech, Tangier, Chefchaouen, and Meknes into your Morocco tour for a complete experience. Asia Odyssey Travel is always ready to help you plan your next custom getaway. We look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure!

Today, visit Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech's most beloved "blue oasis." This botanical masterpiece thrives with over 400 plant species, including towering cacti and lush bamboo. The garden offers a brilliant symphony of light, music, and color, centered around the famous, vibrant Majorelle Blue architecture that defines Moroccan design.

Next, head to Marrakech Medina for Ben Youssef Madrasa, once North Africa's largest and most influential theological center. This 16th-century masterpiece beautifully showcases the golden age of Islamic artistry. Beyond the magnificent central courtyard, you can explore over 130 historic student rooms that offer a fascinating glimpse into ancient scholarly life.

Walk through The Souks, North Africa's largest and most iconic traditional open-air market network. This bustling medieval labyrinth is filled with exotic spices, hand-woven carpets, glittering lanterns, and traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.

Then, head to Koutoubia Mosque, the majestic 12th-century spiritual landmark of Marrakech. Its famous 77-meter minaret served as the architectural blueprint for Seville's Giralda Tower. Built from local red sandstone, this masterpiece features elegant geometric windows, grand Islamic arches, and beautiful public gardens perfect for photography.

After that, experience Jemaa el-Fnaa, a vibrant UNESCO-listed square at the heart of Marrakech. Day features snake charmers and fresh orange juice stalls, while night transforms the space into a massive open-air food market. Visit at sunset to enjoy the live folklore and vibrant atmosphere.

Optional Activity: Calèche Ride

Step aboard a traditional Calèche, a horse-drawn green carriage that has symbolized Marrakech for over 150 years. Driven by licensed, multi-generational local drivers, this classic open-air ride offers a romantic and nostalgic way to tour the ancient Red City.

Overnight in Marrakech.

Today, you will be transferred to Marrakesh Menara Airport for your onward flight.

Service ends here in Marrakech, Morocco. There are some other destinations to explore in Morocco. Asia Odyssey Travel is always ready to help you plan your next custom getaway. We look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure!