13 March 2026 – 7 days for £4,558 per person
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s two most iconic cities Cairo and Alexandria, where the wonders of ancient science, engineering, and astronomy still echo through time. From the monumental achievements of the pharaohs to the groundbreaking ideas of Hellenistic scholars, explore a civilisation that laid the foundations for modern knowledge.
Step into the world of one of history’s most advanced civilisations where astronomy, engineering, and architecture reached astonishing heights. Explore Egypt’s scientific legacy, from the iconic pyramids and the Sphinx of Giza to the cutting-edge exhibits of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which opened its doors fully in November 2025, and is now home to the full treasures of Tutankhamun, the famous Egyptian astronomical ceiling and many other notable artefacts from ancient Egypt.
In Cairo, stand beneath colossal monuments that continue to challenge our understanding of ancient innovation. Then head to Alexandria, once the intellectual capital of the world, where you'll descend into Greco-Roman catacombs and visit the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, echoing the spirit of the legendary Library of Alexandria.
Dr Chris Jackson, a distinguished geologist and engaging science communicator, will accompany you throughout this fascinating journey through Cairo and Alexandria. With his deep expertise in Egyptian geology - honed during his PhD fieldwork in the region - Chris will offer unique insights into the landscapes that shaped ancient civilisations. Through his engaging talks and on-site commentary, he’ll reveal how the Nile, deserts, and rock formations influenced Egypt’s history, architecture, and culture, adding a rich geological perspective to your exploration of these iconic cities.
With every step, you'll uncover how science shaped a civilisation and how that legacy still resonates today. Whether you're new to Egypt or returning to delve deeper this tour offers a rich, immersive experience at the crossroads of history, discovery, and wonder.
In partnership with Kirker Holidays.
MAP
DAY 1: CAIRO ARRIVAL
Arrive into Cairo where you will stay for three nights at the new Crowne Plaza hotel in Giza, located close to the Pyramids and the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum.
Founded in 969 CE by the Fatimid dynasty, Cairo quickly grew into a centre of learning, trade, and power. Over the centuries, it flourished under successive dynasty including the Mamluks and Ottomans leaving behind a rich architectural and cultural legacy. Today, Cairo stands as a vibrant testament to its layered past, where ancient, medieval, and modern histories converge.
This evening we will begin with an introductory talk followed by dinner in the hotel’s restaurant.
DAY 2: PYRAMIDS OF GIZA, SPHINX AND GRAND EGYPT MUSEUM
Today you will visit the Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, they are remarkable examples of ancient Egyptian engineering and architectural prowess. They stand as a testament to the advanced knowledge of mathematics, engineering, and astronomy possessed by the ancient Egyptians. Visit the Giza Plateau with a VIP tour including the pyramids and Sphinx, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Exploring the pyramids and their surrounding complex will give you insights into the scientific principles employed in their construction and astronomical alignments.
In the afternoon, visit the striking, newly-opened Grand Egyptian Museum, more than two decades in the making. Long-anticipated, it opened its doors fully in November 2025 to grand acclaim and is the largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilsation in the world, spanning a huge 500,000 square metres. You can explore exhibits featuring ancient tools, instruments, and devices used in various scientific and medical practices of the time, including incredible artefacts such as an 83-ton, 11-metre statue of Ramses II and the golden burial mask of Tutankhamun. Notable other artefacts include the Edwin Smith Papyrus, which contains the earliest known medical text, and the famous Egyptian astronomical ceiling.
DAY 3: NATIONAL MUSEUM OF EGYPTIAN CIVILISATION AND MEMPHIS AND SAQQARA
This morning you will visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in the centre of Cairo, where we have behind-the-scenes access to the restoration lab where important work to conserve and restore the archaeological discoveries is taking place.
In the afternoon, travel south to Memphis and Saqqara, where you will see the fascinating step pyramids including the Pyramid of Djoser, which is the first Egyptian pyramid to be built, constructed in the 27th century BC.
In the evening enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant in Cairo with views of the Nile.
DAY 4: CAIRO TO ALEXANDRIA
Departing Cairo, you will drive to the Mediterranean coast and Alexander the Great’s Hellenic city of Alexandria, a journey of around three hours.
Founded in 331 BC, it was once the largest city in the world, and best known for the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; its Great Library, the largest in the ancient world; and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
On arrival, check-in to our hotel for the next two nights.
A second talk will be given before dinner in the hotel this evening.
DAY 5: BIBLIOTECA ALEXANDRIA AND CATACOMBS
Although the original Library of Alexandria was destroyed, a modern version, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, stands as a revival of the ancient library's spirit. While there, you can explore its vast collection of books, manuscripts, and ancient texts.
In the afternoon, visit the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. The necropolis consists of tombs, statues and archaeological objects with Hellenistic and early Roman influences, which merge Roman, Greek and Egyptian cultural influences.
DAY 6: ALEXANDRIA TO CAIRO AND EVENING CRUISE ON THE NILE
Return to Cairo this morning with the afternoon at leisure
Enjoy an evening dinner cruise on the Nile to mark our final night in the city.
DAY 7: CAIRO DEPARTURE
Depart for Cairo Airport for your return flight home.
