+888 832 7280

TOLL FREE

Papua New Guinea Sing Sing dancers

13 days / 12 Nights

Luxury Egypt with Patricia Schultz, bestselling author of 1000 Places to See Before You Die

$ 13,950 / person

View Photos
Community visit Singsing line Birdlife Face paint
Over 30 years of experience
Google
WeTravel
Award-winning service

Upscale Small Group Egypt Journey with a Private Seven Night Nile Cruise

Discover the most complete luxury Egypt itinerary for discerning travelers who value comfort, cultural depth, and thoughtful pacing. Designed as an upscale small-group expedition, this carefully curated experience unites Egypt’s most iconic archaeological sites with an unhurried private Nile cruise aboard Egypt’s newest and most refined private dahabiya vessel. Hosted by Patricia Schultz, bestselling author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, it offers rare insight, refined comfort, and privileged access from Cairo to Abu Simbel.

At a Glance

Price & Deposit

From $13,950 per person (double occupancy) Deposit: $2,000 per person

Duration

13 Days / 12 Nights

Start / End

Cairo, Egypt → Cairo, Egypt

When

October 7–19, 2026

Group Size

Min 8 / Max 14

Activity Level

Easy to Moderate (walking on uneven archaeological surfaces)

Important Note

Because this exclusive journey is offered only once and includes Egypt’s finest accommodations and a private dahabiya reserved solely for our group of 14 travelers, spaces are extremely limited. We recommend securing your place early to avoid disappointment.

Luxury Egypt Tour Description

Monumental pyramids rise from the desert, temples line the banks of the Nile, and ancient stories unfold at a pace that allows their meaning to settle in. This luxury Egypt tour blends Egypt’s most celebrated archaeological sites with an intimate seven night journey along the Nile, revealing the country through history, landscape, and daily life.

You begin in Cairo with immersive visits to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and Saqqara, followed by time at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. From Luxor, you board a privately chartered dahabiya, sailing slowly between Luxor and Aswan with access to temples and villages rarely reached by larger vessels. Along the way, explore Karnak, Luxor Temple, Edfu, Kom Ombo, Philae, and quieter stretches of the river.

An overland journey to Abu Simbel reveals the monumental temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari before returning to Aswan for a visit to a Nubian village and lunch at the iconic Old Cataract Hotel, where Agatha Christie wrote Death on the Nile, shared in the company of Patricia Schultz. The journey concludes back in Cairo with a full day at the Grand Egyptian Museum, now home to the complete Tutankhamun collection.

Throughout, travel in the company of Patricia Schultz, whose lifelong exploration of meaningful places brings depth, perspective, and conversation to every stage of the journey.

Why Choose This Luxury Egypt Journey

  • A Rare Journey with Patricia Schultz

    Travel alongside one of the world’s most influential travel writers. Patricia Schultz’s work has shaped how generations understand why places endure. Egypt holds a special place in her writing and personal travels, and experiencing it in her company offers insight shaped by decades of observation and reflection.

  • Private Dahabiya Nile Cruise

    Sail the Nile for seven nights aboard a privately chartered, newly built, state of the art dahabiya designed for an intimate group. This traditional vessel offers refined comfort, modern amenities, and access to sites beyond the reach of standard river ships. Evenings are spent moored along quiet riverbanks, setting a relaxed rhythm for each day.

  • Complete, Well Paced Exploration

    Multi night stays in Cairo and an unhurried Nile itinerary create a natural flow, balancing major monuments with time to absorb context and meaning. The journey avoids rushed transitions, allowing space for reflection, conversation, and discovery.

  • Egypt’s Defining Archaeology

    Stand before the Great Pyramids of Giza, explore Saqqara’s Step Pyramid, walk the great temple complexes of Karnak and Luxor, and journey to Abu Simbel by land. The experience culminates at the Grand Egyptian Museum, presenting Egypt’s ancient legacy in a contemporary setting.

  • Cultural Encounters

    Along the Nile Visit Nubian villages and meet families along the river, gaining insight into daily life shaped by the Nile across generations. These encounters add living context to the monuments and deepen understanding of Egypt beyond its ancient past.

  • Expert Guidance

    Throughout Travel with one of the most respected Egyptologists serving as your NPE Expedition Leader, alongside Patricia Schultz as host. This layered leadership ensures historical depth, logistical excellence, unique experiences, and continuity from beginning to end.

As Featured In & Recommended By:

Who This Journey Is For

Discerning travelers seeking a luxury Egypt experience defined by cultural depth, expert insight, and refined comfort. Ideal for those who value small groups, meaningful conversation, thoughtful pacing, and upscale services.

Who This Journey Is Not For

Travelers seeking budget travel, large groups, or fast paced sightseeing. This journey favors depth, comfort, and time over checklists.

Why Choose New Paths Expeditions

  • Unmatched Loyalty and Trust

    Ninety five percent of first-time travelers return. Backed by more than 30 years of field leadership and 15 years of dedicated operations, NPE is known for consistency, care, and long-term relationships.

  • Small Groups and True Exclusivity

    Most expeditions operate with 8 to 14 guests, ensuring intimacy, seamless logistics, and exceptional access throughout the journey.

  • Senior Leaders and Expert Guides

    Journeys are led by seasoned expedition leaders and expert local guides with deep regional knowledge, supported by respected scholars and authors on select departures.

  • Perfect Pacing and Boutique Comfort

    No rushed one-night stops. Accommodations are selected for quality, location, and comfort, creating a balanced rhythm throughout.

  • Personal Care from Start to Finish

    From inquiry to return home, a dedicated NPE Expedition Advisor manages every detail, ensuring a seamless and supported experience.

Google ★★★★★ WeTravel ★★★★★

Testimonials

David and Karen Mitchell

Longmont, CO

★★★★★

We have traveled with New Paths to more than twelve countries, and Luxury Egypt was the most upscale experience we’ve had—while still feeling authentic and deeply connected…

Susan Whitmore

Evanston, IL

★★★★★

The cruise exceeded all expectations. Our Egyptologist brought every site to life, and staying at the Four Seasons and visiting the Old Cataract was unforgettable…

Robert Jenkins

Round Rock, TX

★★★★★

We had traveled in Egypt before and chose New Paths for their quality and unique access. This journey exceeded our expectations and gave us a new appreciation for the country…

Michael Rosen

White Plains, NY

★★★★★

New Paths truly delivers the ultimate Egypt experience. Traveling by land and along the Nile made the journey feel immersive, unhurried, and deeply rewarding…

Eileen Parker

Kirkland, WA

★★★★★

The best way to explore Egypt is by dahabiya. My journey with New Paths was outstanding from beginning to end and beautifully organized…

Plan Your Luxury Egypt Journey

Luxury Egypt with Patricia Schultz – Expedition Booklet

Download the complete expedition booklet for our 13-day small-group journey through Egypt with Patricia Schultz—featuring the full day-by-day itinerary, seven-night private dahabiya cruise between Luxor and Aswan, Abu Simbel by land, lunch at the Old Cataract Hotel, and a final visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

  • Full 13-Day Itinerary
  • Private 7-Night Dahabiya Nile Cruise
  • Key Highlights: Pyramids, Abu Simbel, GEM
  • What’s Included & How to Reserve
Get the Luxury Egypt Booklet with Patricia Schultz

Free expedition PDF · Instant download · No spam ever

Itinerary

Getting There

International flights are not included. You should arrive in Cairo by Day 1, where NPE provides full meet and assist services and private transfers. Arriving a day early is recommended for a relaxed start and can be arranged upon request.

  1. Day1

    Arrival in Cairo

    Upon arrival in Cairo, you will be met and assisted by a New Paths Expeditions representative and transferred privately to your five-star hotel. Time to settle in and rest after your journey.

    Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo.
  2. Day2

    The Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

    Begin with an in-depth exploration of the Giza Plateau, including the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Valley Temple. Enter the Great Pyramid of Cheops and experience these monuments with expert interpretation. An optional 20 minute camel ride is included.

    Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo. (B) (L) (D)
  3. Day3

    Saqqara and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization

    Visit Saqqara’s Step Pyramid and richly decorated tombs before continuing to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, home to Egypt’s royal mummies and a powerful narrative of ancient history.

    Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo. (B) (L) (D)
  4. Day4

    Flight to Luxor and East Bank Temples

    Fly south to Luxor and explore Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, two of the most important religious complexes in the ancient world. Board your private dahabiya and begin life on the Nile.

    Overnight: Private dahabiya. (B) (L) (D)
  5. Days5–9

    Private Dahabiya Nile Cruise. Luxor to Aswan

    Life on the Nile unfolds at a deliberate pace as you sail aboard your privately chartered dahabiya. Days are shaped by quiet sailing, temple visits, and time to absorb the landscape from the deck. Explore the West Bank of Luxor, including the Valley of the Kings, where your entry includes tickets to visit three tombs, selected with guidance from your Egyptologist Expedition Leader from those available that day. New Paths Expeditions also provides an additional ticket for one extra tomb, with a choice between Ramses VI and Tutankhamun’s tomb. Ramses VI is strongly recommended for its exceptional decoration and visual impact. Continue south with visits to Esna, Edfu Temple, Gebel el Silsila, Kom Ombo Temple, and Philae. Along the way, stop at Nubian villages, meet local families, and take part in an onboard cooking experience that offers insight into regional cuisine and daily life along the river.

    Overnight: Private dahabiya (five nights). (B) (L) (D)
  6. Day10

    Abu Simbel by Land

    Journey overland from Aswan to Abu Simbel to experience the monumental temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari in their dramatic desert setting. Return to the comfort of your dahabiya.

    Overnight: Private dahabiya. (B) (L) (D)
  7. Day11

    Nubian Village, Old Cataract Hotel, Return to Cairo

    Visit a Nubian village and enjoy lunch at the iconic Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan, where Agatha Christie wrote Death on the Nile, a literary moment experienced together with Patricia Schultz. Fly back to Cairo in the afternoon.

    Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo. (B) (L)
  8. Day12

    The Grand Egyptian Museum and Farewell Dinner

    Spend a full morning at the Grand Egyptian Museum, now displaying the complete Tutankhamun collection together for the first-time. Celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner.

    Overnight: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo. (B) (L) (D)
  9. Day13

    Departure

    Private transfer to Cairo International Airport for onward flights.

    (B)

Important Note

Travel in Egypt can be affected by weather, operational conditions, or unforeseen events. Adjustments may be required to ensure safety and quality. No refunds are issued for changes outside the control of New Paths Expeditions.

Plan Your Luxury Egypt Journey

Luxury Egypt with Patricia Schultz – Expedition Booklet

Download the complete expedition booklet for our 13-day small-group journey through Egypt with Patricia Schultz—featuring the full day-by-day itinerary, seven-night private dahabiya cruise between Luxor and Aswan, Abu Simbel by land, lunch at the Old Cataract Hotel, and a final visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

  • Full 13-Day Itinerary
  • Private 7-Night Dahabiya Nile Cruise
  • Key Highlights: Pyramids, Abu Simbel, GEM
  • What’s Included & How to Reserve
Get the Luxury Egypt Booklet with Patricia Schultz

Free expedition PDF · Instant download · No spam ever

What’s Included

  • Pre-Departure Support: Dedicated NPE Expedition Advisor, complete pre-departure materials, packing guidance, and destination notes.
  • Accommodations: Twelve nights total, including five nights at a five-star Four Seasons Hotel in Cairo and seven-nights aboard a privately chartered, two-deck luxury dahabiya on the Nile.
  • Meals: All meals are included from Day 2 through breakfast on Day 13, with the exception of one dinner on the evening of the return flight from Aswan to Cairo, when most guests prefer a light meal or room service. Included meals feature non-alcoholic beverages. Included meals include lunch at quality local restaurants on Days 2, 3, and 12, four dinners at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo, and lunch at the Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan.
  • Transportation: Internal flights within Egypt are arranged by New Paths Expeditions for seamless logistics and scheduling and are charged separately. Private air-conditioned vehicles, airport transfers, and seven nights of private Nile cruising are included.
  • Guides and Leadership: One of the most respected Egyptologists serving as your NPE Expedition Leader, with Patricia Schultz participating throughout the journey from Day 1 through Day 13.
  • Excursions and Entrances: All guided visits, site entrances, and cultural experiences listed in the itinerary, including an optional camel ride at the Pyramids of Giza.
  • Water, Taxes, and Visas: Bottled water provided throughout the journey. All applicable government taxes and service charges are included. Visa fees are included for all U.S. travelers.
  • Tips: Tips for restaurant and hotel staff, and luggage porters are included.

What’s Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Egypt: International airfare to and from Egypt
  • Travel insurance: Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses: Personal expenses such as laundry and items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities: Gratuities for your NPE Expedition Leader, driver in Cairo, and the dahabiya crew
  • Not included activities: Any activities not explicitly listed in the itinerary

Book With Confidence

Risk-Free Deposit

Full refund within 5 days of deposit.

Flexible Payments

Interest-free installments available until the final balance is due.

Final Payment

The final balance is due 120 days before the expedition begins.

Gallery

FEATURED BY FORBES

Recognized for Regenerative Travel Leadership

Our focus on sustainability and regenerative travel led Forbes to publish a full feature on our efforts. At NPE, every expedition is designed to make a lasting impact: protecting species and ecosystems, supporting local communities and archaeological research, training future guides, and ensuring the places we explore truly thrive.

By traveling with New Paths Expeditions, you become part of this mission—helping us leave every destination better than we found it.

Plan Your Luxury Egypt Journey

Luxury Egypt with Patricia Schultz – Expedition Booklet

Download the complete expedition booklet for our 13-day small-group journey through Egypt with Patricia Schultz—featuring the full day-by-day itinerary, a private seven-night dahabiya cruise between Luxor and Aswan, Abu Simbel by land, lunch at the Old Cataract Hotel, and a final visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

  • Full 13-Day Itinerary
  • Private 7-Night Dahabiya Nile Cruise
  • Key Highlights: Pyramids, Abu Simbel, GEM
  • What’s Included & How to Reserve
Get the Luxury Egypt Booklet with Patricia Schultz

Free expedition PDF · Instant download · No spam ever

Frequently Asked Questions

Luxury Egypt Tour – Frequently Asked Questions

About the Journey

What makes this a luxury Egypt tour?
This journey combines Egypt’s most important archaeological sites with five-star accommodations, a private seven-night dahabiya Nile cruise, expert Egyptologist leadership, and thoughtful pacing. The experience is defined by small-group size, refined logistics, and access beyond standard itineraries.
How long is the journey and why is it so comprehensive?
The itinerary spans 13 days and 12 nights, allowing time to explore Egypt’s major sites in-depth without rushing. The length reflects the inclusion of extended time in Cairo, a private Nile voyage, and overland travel to Abu Simbel.
Is this a small-group experience?
Yes. Participation is limited to a maximum of 14 guests to ensure personal attention, smooth logistics, and meaningful access throughout the journey.

Patricia Schultz’s Role

Will Patricia Schultz be present for the entire journey?
Yes. Patricia Schultz travels with the group from Day 1 through Day 13 and participates throughout the full experience.
What does it mean to travel with Patricia Schultz?
Traveling with Patricia Schultz adds a reflective and conversational dimension shaped by her decades of global travel and writing. Her presence enriches site visits, shared meals, and informal discussions about why certain places endure.

The Private Dahabiya Nile Cruise

What is a dahabiya?
A dahabiya is a traditional Nile sailing vessel designed for small group. It offers a quiet, intimate alternative to large cruise ships, with access to smaller docking points and a pace guided by the river itself. Today, dahabiyas are propelled either by wind or, more commonly, by a support boat that pulls the vessel from a distance, ensuring guests are not disturbed by engine noise or vibration.
What makes this dahabiya unique?
This journey sails aboard Egypt’s newest and most refined private dahabiya, a two-deck vessel reserved exclusively for your group and designed for comfort, privacy, and understated elegance.
What facilities are available on board?
The dahabiya is arranged across two-decks. The upper deck includes an indoor, air-conditioned restaurant and lounge, as well as outdoor lounge areas designed for relaxation and river viewing. All indoor spaces are fully air-conditioned.
How many cabins are on board and how are they configured?
The vessel accommodates just eight beautifully appointed cabins. All cabins are arranged with twin beds that can be combined into a single large double bed. Each cabin features a private bathroom, air conditioning, first-class bathroom amenities, a safety box, tea and coffee facilities, hairdryer, and daily turndown service.
Are there outdoor relaxation areas?
Yes. The dahabiya features multiple outdoor spaces, including shaded lounge areas and a dedicated sun and relaxation area, allowing guests to enjoy the Nile throughout the day.
How many nights are spent on the Nile?
Seven nights are spent aboard the private dahabiya, sailing between Luxor and Aswan.
Are meals and beverages included on board?
Yes. All meals are included on board, along with soft drinks, bottled water, and a continuous tea and coffee station. Beer and wine are available for purchase.
Is there a cooking experience on board?
Yes. Guests are invited to take part in a relaxed cooking experience on board, offering insight into Egyptian cuisine and daily life along the Nile.

Cultural Encounters and Daily Life

Will we have contact with local communities?
Yes. The itinerary includes visits to Nubian villages and opportunities to meet local families along the Nile, providing insight into contemporary life shaped by the river.
Are these encounters handled responsibly?
All community visits are arranged through long-standing local partnerships and are designed to be culturally respectful and mutually positive.

Valley of the Kings Tickets and Tomb Selection

How many tombs can we visit in the Valley of the Kings?
Your entry ticket includes visits to three tombs, selected on site with guidance from your Egyptologist Expedition Leader based on availability and guest interest.
Which tombs are typically available to choose from?
Options may include Merneptah, Siptah, Tausret, Sethnakht, Seti II, and Ramses III.
Is an additional tomb visit included?
Yes. New Paths Expeditions provides an additional entry ticket for one extra tomb. Guests may choose between Ramses VI or Tutankhamun’s tomb. Ramses VI is strongly recommended for its exceptional decoration and visual impact.

Accommodations and Comfort

Where do we stay in Cairo?
The journey includes five nights at a five-star Four Seasons Hotel in Cairo, selected for comfort, service, and location.
What is included at the Cairo hotel?
Daily breakfast and four dinners are included at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo. Non-alcoholic beverages are included with meals.
Is laundry service available?
Laundry service is available at hotels for an additional charge.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

How physically demanding is this journey?
The tour is rated easy to moderate. Guests should be comfortable with sustained sightseeing days that may include walking on uneven archaeological surfaces, climbing stairs, and accessing river ports where conditions can vary depending on water levels. All boarding and disembarking is assisted by the attentive dahabiya crew and follows NPE safety standards.
Is this journey suitable for travelers of all ages?
Yes. This journey is suitable for travelers of all ages who are comfortable with sustained sightseeing days. Guests should be able to walk for up to two hours at a time, sometimes on uneven archaeological surfaces, climb stairs, and comfortably embark and disembark buses and boats with assistance. For travelers under the age of 18, please contact New Paths Expeditions prior to booking to confirm suitability.

Season, Weather, and Travel Conditions

What is the weather like in October?
October offers warm days and cooler evenings, creating comfortable conditions for sightseeing and Nile cruising.
Will weather affect the itinerary?
While conditions are generally favorable, adjustments may be required due to operational factors or unforeseen events to ensure safety and quality.

Safety and Travel in Egypt

Is Egypt safe for travelers?
New Paths Expeditions works with experienced local partners and leaders to prioritize safety and comfort throughout the journey. The itinerary is designed based on current conditions and long-standing regional expertise.

Flights, Visas, and Logistics

Are internal flights included?
Internal flights within Egypt are arranged by New Paths Expeditions for seamless logistics and scheduling. These flights are charged separately. Transfers and airport assistance are included.
Do I need a visa for Egypt?
Most travelers require a visa for entry to Egypt, which is obtained upon arrival. New Paths Expeditions includes the visa fee for all U.S. travelers and provides detailed guidance prior to departure.

Booking, Payments, and Preparation

What is the deposit and payment schedule?
A deposit is required to confirm space on the expedition. The deposit amount is $2,000 per person. Interest-free installment payments are available. Final payment is due 120 days prior to departure.
Will I have support while preparing for the journey?
Yes. From the time of booking, each guest is assigned a dedicated New Paths Expeditions Expedition Advisor. Your advisor is available to answer questions, assist with logistics, and guide you through every step of preparation leading up to departure.
What pre-departure materials will I receive?
Approximately 100 days prior to departure, guests receive a comprehensive pre-departure package. This includes detailed destination information, a participant list, emergency contacts, packing guidance, luggage tags, name tags, and other materials designed to help you prepare thoroughly and confidently.
Will there be final instructions before departure?
Yes. Approximately one week prior to departure, your NPE Expedition Leader will send a final communication outlining arrival procedure, the visa process, meeting NPE representatives at the airport, and other important details to ensure a smooth start to the journey.
Can you help with international airfare?
New Paths Expeditions does not book international airfare. Guests are welcome to book independently, including using airline miles. For those who would like assistance, NPE works with Exito Travel, a trusted flight consolidator. For a service fee of $100, Exito Travel can assist with routing and pricing and take care of any reroutes if needed on your behalf. To be connected, please contact New Paths Expeditions at 888 832 7280 or contact@npexpeditions.com.
Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is highly recommended and should cover trip cancellation, interruption, medical expenses, and baggage loss. Guests may purchase insurance through any provider. Many past NPE travelers have chosen USI Insurance with positive results. If you would like a quote, please click here.
What is not included in the tour price?
International airfare, travel insurance, personal expenses, and gratuities for the NPE Expedition Leader, Cairo driver, and the dahabiya crew are not included.
Who is this journey best suited for?
This journey is ideal for culturally curious travelers who value expert interpretation, small group, thoughtful pacing, and a high standard of comfort.

Luxury Egypt with Patricia Schultz, bestselling author of 1000 Places to See Before You Die

Price: $13,950

Deposit: $2,000

Make it Private
CHECK AVAILABILITY
FREE EXPEDITION GUIDE

Small-Groups or Private:
⏰ Limited Spots Available
⚠️ Filling Fast

Note: Our peak dates regularly sell out 9–12 months in advance, so book early to avoid disappointment

Need Help?  Ask a Question   888-832-7280

CHECK AVAILABILITY
y2 1

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

You have Successfully Subscribed!