Splendors of the Nile
Presented by Culture & Heritage Museums

Day 1: Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Overnight Flight
Step back in time and explore thousands of years of history, legend and lore as you view the timeless wonders of Egypt. Discover the world of the ancient Egyptians as you visit the incomparable sites of the pharaohs - Memphis and Sakkara, the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor and Karnak temples and the tombs on the West Bank of ancient Thebes. Cruise along the legendary Nile River, pass colonnaded temples and stop at the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo, situated at the crossroads of ancient caravan routes. Return home with a new understanding of this mystical land.

Day 2: Thursday, October 21, 2010
Cairo, Egypt
Gather for a special welcome reception and dinner this evening.
Today Dinner is included.

Day 3: Friday, October 22, 2010
Cairo - Giza - Memphis - Sakkara - Cairo
This morning travel to nearby Giza to visit one of the seven ancient wonders of the world – the Pyramids of Giza. This afternoon, travel south to visit the site of ancient Memphis, with its 40-foot statue of Ramses II, and Sakkara, where you will see the oldest of all the pyramids, the Step Pyramid. Return to the pyramids this evening for a captivating sound and light show.
Today Breakfast is included.

Day 4: Saturday, October 23, 2010
Cairo - Luxor
Spend the morning discovering the remarkable collections of the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, including statues, reliefs, sarcophagi and the treasures of the tomb of Tutankhamen. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight to Luxor*.
Today Breakfast is included.

Day 5: Sunday, October 24, 2010
Luxor
Begin your tour of ancient Thebes as you cross over to the West Bank of the Nile to visit the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir El Bahari, and the Colossi of Memnon. This afternoon, enjoy a tour of the massive complex of the Temple of Karnak.
Today Breakfast is included.

Day 6: Monday, October 25, 2010
Luxor - Board Cruise Ship
Return to the West Bank to visit the tombs in the Valley of Nobles and the well-preserved temple complex of Medinet Habu. Embark on your Nile cruise this afternoon.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is included.

Day 7: Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Luxor
Your ship sails in the early hours of the morning. Begin sailing down the mighty Nile, arriving in Esna. Continue sailing this afternoon toward Edfu.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is included.

Day 8: Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Edfu - Kom Ombo
This morning visit the well-preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu. Following lunch, set sail for Kom Ombo, where you will tour the famous double sanctuary.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is included.

Day 9: Thursday, October 28, 2010
Aswan
Arrive in the Nubian city of Aswan this morning and visit the ancient Philae Temple of Isis. Later, explore Nubian history and its environment with a visit to the Nubian Museum, known for its rich collection of artifacts showing the material culture of Nubia, from prehistory to present times. Your ship remains in Aswan overnight.
Today Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner is included.

Day 10: Friday, October 29, 2010
Aswan - Disembark Cruise Ship
Disembark your ship this morning. You may choose an optional tour to Abu Simbel** and see the extraordinary temples built by Pharaoh Ramses II, which were moved to their present site during construction of the Aswan High Dam. Later, sail by traditional felucca to Kitchener Island for a stroll through the botanical gardens.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 11: Saturday, October 30, 2010
Aswan - Cairo
Fly from Aswan to Cairo* and check into your hotel. Tonight enjoy a delightful farewell dinner and share your experiences with your fellow travelers!
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 12: Sunday, October 31, 2010
Cairo - Tour Concludes

Today Breakfast is included.

EXTEND YOUR VACATION WITH...
optional Jordan Post Tour Extension
Rate: $1999 USD per person, double, land and air included
6 Meals 4 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners

Day 12 Heliopolis/Cairo - Amman, Jordan - Petra
Board your morning flight to Amman, Jordan. Upon arrival, travel the Desert Highway to the ancient city of Petra.

Day 13 Petra - Wadi Rum
Enjoy a morning tour of the remarkable stone-carved city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the new Wonders of the World. A treasure of the ancient world, Petra was “hidden” behind rugged mountains prior to its discovery in 1812 after being lost for over 300 years. Explore this breathtaking city, carved from sandstone by the Nabataeans, with an expert guide and learn about the importance of Petra to the ancient trade routes, the history of its prominence and decline, its rediscovery, and efforts at preservation. This afternoon, depart for the immense desert of Wadi Rum, stunning in its natural beauty and home of the famous film “Lawrence of Arabia.” Experience desert life and learn about the fascinating history of the Bedouin people who have lived for generations in the Wadi Rum’s stark, fragile and unspoiled desert. This evening, experience the flavors of the region with a delightful dinner at a popular local restaurant.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 14 Petra - Madaba - Mt. Nebo - Amman
Travel along the Kings Highway, an ancient route from biblical times, to the city of Madaba, the “City of Mosaics.” Visit the church of St. George to see the famous 6th century Byzantine mosaic map of the region, one of the oldest in existence, and the museum where many other spectacular mosaic examples are on display. Visit a local mosaic school to learn the history of this ancient art and how to create your very own mosaic piece. You will also visit Mt. Nebo, where Moses saw the Promised Land – present day Israel – and is believed to be laid to rest. Later, arrive in Amman, known as the “White City” because of white limestone used to construct the majority of the buildings. Enjoy dinner tonight at one of Amman's favorite restaurants.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 15 Amman - Jerash - Heliopolis/Cairo, Egypt
Travel the quiet valley among the mountains of Gilead to the city of Jerash – the “Pompeii of the East.” Step back in time as you tour the ruins with a local guide. Walk through columned streets, hilltop temples, public squares and plazas. Archeologists uncovered evidence inside the city walls indicating Amman was occupied as far back as the Neolithic age over 6,500 years ago. Later, board your flight to Cairo for your overnight stay.
Today Breakfast is included.

Day 16 Heliopolis/Cairo - Tour Ends

Today Breakfast is included.

Please Note:
• A Jordanian visa is required for this extension and can be purchased upon arrival at the airport in Amman. Approximate cost is $15 USD. An Egyptian visa will once again be required upon your return to Cairo and can be purchased at the airport. Approximate cost is $20 USD.

• This extension is hosted by local representatives who will accompany you during your travels in Jordan and Egypt.

Collette Logo
October 20 - October 31, 2010

Highlights...
Cairo • Pyramids • Memphis • Sakkara • Luxor • Valley of the Kings and Queens • Deluxe 4-Night Nile River Cruise • Aswan •

12 Days • 21 Meals:
10 Breakfasts • 4 Lunches • 7 Dinners

Per Person Rates*:
Double $4499
Single $5099
Triple $4469

*Included in Price: Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges of $130 (subject to increase until paid in full),Hotel Transfers,Round Trip Air from Charlotte Intl Airport,
Click Here for Details
 * Not Included in Price: Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $235 per person,

YOUR ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
DAY 1
  Overnight Flight
DAY 2 - 3
  Le Meridien Pyramids Hotel, Cairo
  or Moevenpick Pyramids Resort, Giza, Cairo
DAY 4 - 5
  Sheraton Luxor Hotel, Luxor
DAY 6 - 9
  m/s Mirage I Cruise Ship, Heliopolis
DAY 10
  Moevenpick Resort, Aswan
DAY 11
  Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino, Cairo

On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Experience It!
in Egypt

Learn about ancient Egyptian history during lectures in Cairo and on board the cruise by your Egyptologist/National Guide, who will accompany you throughout your journey. With their guidance, you will: • Discover the roles of the pharaoh, religion, and art and architecture in ancient Egypt, from the pre-dynastic “Old Kingdom” through the achievements of the “New Kingdom” to the end of the dynastic period and the rule of the Greek Ptolemaic period, ending with the rule of Cleopatra. • Explore the mystique behind the empire of the great builder and pharaoh, Ramses II and his wife Nefertari. • Learn about the exciting recent archaeological finds in Egypt. • Gain insight into the many differing tombs of the Valley of the Kings and hear about their site selection, tomb construction, rituals and symbolism.

Click here for: Important Reservation Information.

For more information call
Nancy Crane
 Culture & Heritage Museums
(803) 329-2121 x. 112
ncrane@chmuseums.org

Please Note:
• Visa is required.
• Passport is required.
• Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first come, first served basis.
• To complete your vacation, we include roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers when purchasing airfare with your Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures tour. If you have arranged for your own air, we are pleased to provide you the option of purchasing these transfers. Please note that all transfers will leave at pre-scheduled times.
• The days and order of sightseeing may change to best utilize your time on tour. *The internal flights on this program (from Cairo to Luxor, and Aswan to Cairo) are not included in the land price and must be purchased with the air portion of your vacation. Internal flights that are purchased will be ticketed and distributed on tour by your Tour Manager. Arrival and departure transfers to/from the airports in Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor for the tour and/or one pre night are included when purchasing Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures air. Each client is responsible for proper medical documentation and inoculations that may be required and/or recommended to participate on this tour. Please contact your local travel clinic or personal physician for specific details on the destinations you are traveling to and from. Smithsonian Journeys Travel Adventures prides itself on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing sturdy walking shoes. In addition, temperatures on this tour can be very high, so bring adequate sun protection. Many days will have early departures for excursions to avoid the mid-day high temperatures. **You must reserve the optional excursion to Abu Simbel when you book your tour.
• Museum visits and shopping may be affected with observance of religious or local holidays.
• This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.
• An entry Visa is required for this tour at your expense. The approximate cost for this Egypt visa is $20 USD and can be obtained at the airport upon arrival. Your Tour Manager will help you with the visa purchase.