Curator’s statement
Imagine starting your New Year surrounded by history—5,000 years of it. Egypt isn’t just ancient pyramids and temples. It’s also vibrant cities, lively celebrations, and quiet moments of awe. This specially crafted itinerary is perfect for solo travelers eager to experience the wonders of Egypt at their own pace, all by land. Skip the overnight river cruise—this adventure is about flexibility, luxury, and connecting with the spirit of Egypt. New Year’s adds a sprinkle of magic: think rooftop fireworks in Cairo and serene, candlelit temples in Luxor to welcome new beginnings.
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Day 1: Arrive in Cairo
Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ, Egypt
Discover Egypt’s New Administrative Capital
Step off the plane, breeze past the airport lines (pro tip: get your e-visa online!), and meet your private driver. In just 45 minutes, you’ll trade the bustle of Cairo for the futuristic New Administrative Capital—a city literally rising from the desert sands.
Check in at The St. Regis New Capital and soak in the skyline before heading out to explore.
Visit the Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ (one of the largest churches in the Middle East), marvel at the Al-Fattah Al-Aleem Mosque’s grandeur, and gaze up at Africa’s tallest building, the Iconic Tower.
End your day amid the tranquil paths of Green River Park, watching the desert sunset. Take it easy tonight because Egypt’s mysteries await tomorrow.
Day 2: Temples of the East Bank
Ancient Egyptian ruins of Luxor Temple
Fly to Luxor
Today, ancient Egypt is just an hour’s flight away. Luxor, once Thebes, will sweep you into a world of towering columns and sacred spaces.
Check into Steigenberger Nile Palace or Sonesta St. George—both hotels offer gorgeous Nile views.
After a relaxed lunch, your personal Egyptologist will guide you through Karnak’s colossal columns and Luxor Temple’s story-filled stones. Every sunset here feels sacred.
Return to your hotel as evening falls, find peace in the gardens, and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 3: Aswan adventure
Philae Temple in Aswan
Temples, obelisks & Nile views
This morning you’re off by private car, winding through authentic countryside most visitors don’t see—palm groves, sugarcane fields, quiet villages.
In Aswan, witness the mighty High Dam, then set sail to Philae Temple, an island wonder devoted to the Egyptian goddess Isis. Marvel at the Unfinished Obelisk, a testament to ancient engineering.
As dusk falls, your journey back to Luxor is all golden fields and fleeting glimpses of past and present.
Day 4: West Bank wonders
Colossi of Memnon
Valley of the Kings
This is the big one! Cross the Nile to the Valley of the Kings—home to Tutankhamun and other legendary pharaohs.
Walk among walls painted 3,000 years ago, visit Hatshepsut’s elegant temple, and stand before the timeless Colossi of Memnon.
New Year’s Eve in Cairo
After lunch, fly to Cairo and settle into Fairmont Nile City.
The evening’s choices? Savor a rooftop dinner with Nile views and fireworks or join a spirited hotel gala. Ringing in the New Year alongside the glowing pyramids is unforgettable.
Day 5: Explore Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza
Pyramids of Giza
New Year’s Day offers lighter crowds and deeper exploration.
Let your guide lead you across the Giza Plateau, stand before the Great Pyramid, and greet the enigmatic Sphinx at sunrise.
The Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum’s treasures: Tutankhamun’s golden mask, royal mummies, and more than 120,000 artifacts all await.
Finish the day with a sunset drink and take in Cairo’s shimmering skyline.
Day 6: Travel to Alexandria
Qaitbay Citadel
Alexandria: Mediterranean marvel
Switch gears and chase the sea breeze to Alexandria. The journey reveals lush farmland before you arrive in a city founded by Alexander the Great and home to Cleopatra.
Descend into mysterious catacombs, explore ancient theaters, and see the striking Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
Lunch features the freshest seafood with Mediterranean views.
Snap photos of Qaitbay Citadel and imagine the long-lost Lighthouse of Alexandria before heading back to Cairo.
Day 7: Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Inside Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Old Cairo
Time to discover Cairo’s heart and soul.
Wander the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue, and marvel at Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque—mosques, churches, and synagogues grouped close, living proof of religious harmony.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Lunch, then let yourself get deliciously lost in Khan El Khalili’s bustling bazaar. The alleys spark with spices, lanterns, jewelry, and tales from centuries past.
End with mint tea in a traditional café, celebrating the week’s last night in true Egyptian style.
Day 8: Reflect & depart
Cairo's skyline
Wake up to breakfast with Nile views, savoring your last morning in Egypt.
Your airport transfer is a gentle transition back to the present—the perfect time to reflect on temples, tombs, pyramids, vibrant markets, and the warm Egyptian hospitality that made every day special.
You’ve seen Egypt’s greatest treasures—by land, on your schedule, and as a solo explorer.
Until next time, ma’a salama.
Need to know
Tips for travelers
Who this trip is for: New retirees fulfilling bucket-list adventures, experienced globetrotters, and anyone who wants Egypt’s highlights without the cruise crowds or the mobility challenges of sailing. Prefer luxury, flexibility, and independence? This is your perfect fit.
Best time to visit: Late December through January means comfortable sightseeing weather.
Visa: Apply easily online 2–3 weeks ahead for US citizens.
Dress code: Go for modest, comfortable clothes. Scarves come in handy; pack layers for cool evenings.
Solo safety: Solo travelers should consider working with DMCs, private guides, and trusted hotel partners. Register with the State Department’s STEP program before you go.
Tipping: Budget about $25–40 daily for tips. Small bills in Egyptian pounds make life easier.
Extensions: Want more? Add the Grand Egyptian Museum, Saqqara’s pyramids, or an oasis side-trip.
Why skip the cruise: You’ll enjoy better hotels and more flexible touring—no waiting for cruise crowds!
Bespoke travel: As your advisor, I’m here to personalize everything: pace, interests, special requests—each tour is tailored to you. Forget the group-tour shuffle.
Not entirely against water? Try a dinner cruise on the Nile or a romantic felucca sail—memorable, but you still get your comfortable land-based hotel at the end of the evening.
Travel Advisor
Makini Bridgewater
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Egypt page.