Scientific pioneers of the ancient world, Cairo and Alexandria: Egypt
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 ancient history meets modern charm. Explore the grandeur of Egypt’s pharaonic, Islamic and Greco-Roman legacies.
Ancient Egypt was one of the most scientifically advanced civilisations on Earth in its prime. The people of ancient Egypt developed technology, architecture, engineering and astronomy practices that went unmatched for thousands of years. Remarkably, a great deal of this legacy remains to the present day, and recent investment, including the vast new Grand Egyptian Museum, means there has never been a better time to visit.
Begin your adventure in Cairo, Egypt's bustling capital, home to the legendary Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Stand in awe of these colossal monuments, remnants of a civilisation that shaped human history. A visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum offers a deeper look into Egypt's past, showcasing thousands of artefacts, including the complete treasures of Tutankhamun. Strolling through the museum, you will be transported through millennia of pharaonic glory, with exhibits that bring history to life like never before.
From Cairo, travel along the Mediterranean coast to Alexandria, a city rich in Greek and Roman heritage. Explore the eerie yet fascinating catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, an underground necropolis blending Egyptian, Greek and Roman influences. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, where scholars once gathered to expand the frontiers of knowledge. Finally, stand by the shimmering sea at the Qaitbay Citadel, a 15th-century fortress built on the ruins of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria. The sight of waves crashing against its historic walls is the perfect way to end your journey through Egypt’s past and present.
This tour is an excellent introduction to this fascinating destination for first-time visitors, as well as those looking to explore this magnificent country further.
In partnership with Kirker Holidays.
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 new Grand Egyptian Museum, more than two decades in the making. You can explore exhibits featuring ancient tools, instruments, and devices used in various scientific and medical practices of the time. Notable artifacts 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.
