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Discover Egypt and the Nile Valley

  • November 2 – November 14, 2025
  • Pre-Tour: October 30 – November 3, 2025
  • Post-Tour: November 14 – November 20, 2025
From $6,995

per person based on double occupancy

Reserve Now

  • DURATION

    13 Days

  • GROUP SIZE

    28

overview

Join us for a historical and cultural immersion into Egypt's ancient treasures and timeless wonders. From iconic landmarks to architectural marvels that have captivated the world for millennia, this land of pharaohs and pyramids is undeniably a crucial part of human history. Among the countless highlights—you'll embark upon a private dahabiya sailing the tranquil Nile River, gaining rare access to ruins and temples during less occupied times. On land, stay at five-star hotels, each a sanctuary of comfort and luxury. This unhurried journey reveals Egypt's monumental historical events, staggering technological achievements, and compelling human stories.

tour map

tour highlights

– Stand in awe before the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Great Sphinx, each an ancient marvel illustrating the enduring legacy of an incredible civilization. 

– Delve deep into the annals of history at the Grand Egyptian Museum, where treasures from Egypt's rich past come to life.

– Witness the grandeur of the Karnak Temple Complex—one of the largest religious buildings in the world, which includes contributions from approximately 30 pharaohs over thousands of years.

– Mid-journey, embark upon your private dahabiya—a traditional Egyptian sailing vessel—for four relaxing days and nights along the Nile River.

– Be captivated by the intricate carvings inside the unique temple of Kom Ombo.

– Visit Elephantine Island—the only ongoing excavation site open to tourists—to view its sacred temples and traditional Nubian villages.

– During an optional excursion (additional fee), visit the temples of Abu Simbel carved into a massive rock cliff, which were relocated and perfectly reconstructed after building the High Dam in the early 1960s.

day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in Cairo, Egypt
Day 3: Cairo | Giza
Day 4: Cairo 
Day 5: Cairo | Flight to Luxor
Day 6: Luxor | Esna – Embarkation | Nile River
Day 7: Edfu | Nile
Day 8: Edfu | Nile | Kom Ombo
Day 9: Kom Ombo | Nile
Day 10: Nile – Disembarkation | Aswan
Day 11: Aswan
Day 12: Aswan | Optional Abu Simbel Excursion | Flight to Cairo
Day 13: Cairo | Depart for U.S.

full itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Sunday, November 2, 2025

Day 2: Arrive in Cairo, Egypt

Monday, November 3, 2025

Upon arrival to Cairo International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.

Settle into your luxurious accommodations with time to refresh and unwind—the remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure.

Cairo itself is bustling with vibrant energy, as locals move about their daily lives. The city is an intriguing mix of modern skyscrapers juxtaposed with ancient mosques and bustling bazaars.

Day 3: Cairo | Giza

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 (B,L,D)

Awake to extraordinary views of pyramids and palm trees situated against Cairo's expansive horizon.

Following breakfast view the iconic Great Pyramid—the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—and the Great Sphinx, impressively carved from a single mass of limestone atop the Giza Plateau. These monumental structures embody enigmatic technological and architectural sophistication of an ancient era. Standing before these marvels for the first time is awe-inspiring.

Step over to the Grand Egyptian Museum, a newly opened complex described as the largest archaeological museum in the world and host to more than 100,000 artifacts. Peruse the extensive exhibits of royal tombs, portraits and pre-historic relics, and view King Tut’s entire treasure collection.

Day 4: Cairo

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 (B,L)

After breakfast visit the Egyptian village of Sakkara, home to one of the world's oldest step pyramids—dating back over 4,600 years. Walking through the vast Sakkara necropolis, you'll encounter rows of mastabas (burial tombs), each telling the story of individuals from Egypt's distant past. Hieroglyphs and reliefs adorn the walls, illustrating the deep spiritual significance this place held for the ancient Egyptians.

Ascend to the top of Mokattam Hill to reach the Citadel of Cairo for a relaxing lunch overlooking the city. Then visit some of Cairo's ancient Coptic churches to learn more about this minority ethnoreligious group.

Day 5: Cairo | Flight to Luxor

Thursday, November 6, 2025 (B,L)

After a boxed breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to Cairo International Airport for the group flight to Luxor.

Luxor exudes an air of reverence, as two historical sites of worship reside within its boundaries. Guided touring brings you into the grandeur of each.

Over 2,000 years old, the sprawling Karnak Temple Complex was a principal religious center in the New Kingdom. Spanning 200 acres across the city's east bank, the site features massive statues, towering obelisks, intricate hieroglyphics, and the Avenue of Sphinxes.

Tonight explore the magnificent Luxor Temple and enjoy its illuminated beauty. Located in the center of the city, the impressive temple was buried for centuries before its full excavation was completed in 1960.

Dinner this evening is at leisure. Choose from various dining options at the hotel, including two on-site restaurants or a unique barbecue experience in the gardens, featuring a buffet and traditional meat kebabs served at your table.

Day 6: Luxor | Esna – Embarkation | Nile River

Friday, November 7, 2025 (B,L,D)

Following breakfast venture to the hallowed grounds of the Valley of the Kings, an ancient burial site of many influential Egyptian pharaohs and other prominent figures. The structural intricacy and ingenious architecture involved in designing the elaborately decorated tombs is astonishing. The multi-room, and often multi-level, chambers are adorned with carvings, inscriptions, and artwork. It's no surprise archeologists continue to make new discoveries at this UNESCO World Heritage Site after nearly two centuries of excavations.

Admire the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, a multi-story structure built to honor one of the few female pharaohs of the New Kingdom. This grand temple, framed by massive limestone cliffs, is notable for its precise architectural features.

A short drive to Esna brings you to your sailing vessel and home-away-from-home on the Nile River for the following four days and nights.

During embarkation settle into your stateroom and get acquainted with the welcoming common areas on your private dahabiya—a traditional Egyptian sailing boat, featuring wooden decks, billowing sails, and comfortable furnishings. Gather for a delicious lunch, and take advantage of leisure time to lounge on the sun deck as you watch the serene landscape pass by. The gentle lapping of the Nile's waters against the boat creates a soothing soundtrack for your journey.

As night falls the air on the dahabiya takes on a magical quality. The clear Egyptian skies are a canvas for countless stars, and the river is peaceful. Relax on deck, stargazing and recounting highlights of the week's adventures.

Day 7: Edfu | Nile

Saturday, November 8, 2025 (B,L,D)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before joining your Egyptologist for a guided tour to El Kab—a less often visited site—where the air is sedate and contemplative. El Kab is one of upper Egypt's oldest settlements, now a famous necropolis with ancient tombs of nobles and army generals. It's a place where you can connect with the quieter, more introspective side of Egypt's history. The rock-cut chapels and cliffside inscriptions tell stories of a civilization that was deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs.

Continue to Edfu for a guided tour of the Ptolemaic Temple of Horus—the most complete and best-preserved temple in Egypt. Horus, the principal god of resurrection, is depicted in his role as avenger of his father, Osiris, who was murdered by his brother, Seth. Although construction of this temple was finished only a few decades before the rise of Antony and Cleopatra, its design reflects traditional pharaonic architecture.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to rejuvenate aboard the dahabiya. The elegantly appointed staterooms are a tranquil oasis after full days of exploration. Feel a soft breeze waft through the open windows, bringing in the scent of the river and the surrounding greenery. You'll find yourself sinking into plush bedding, savoring the restful ambiance.

This evening dine on a lavish buffet of Egyptian specialties presented alongside a performance featuring local music and dancing.

Day 8: Edfu | Nile | Kom Ombo

Sunday, November 9, 2025 (B,L,D)

Sailing up the river visit Gebel el-Silsila, an ancient quarry where pharaohs excavated sandstone and limestone blocks to build their temples and monuments. As you explore, notice the chisel marks left behind by artisans who toiled here thousands of years ago. This area also contains numerous tombs dating back to the 18th Dynasty.

Return to the dahabiya to unwind during an afternoon of sailing. Join a discussion with one of the Egyptologists, kick back on a plush lounger with a refreshing drink or simply gaze at the ever-changing scenery passing by. The sense of serenity is unmatched as you sail at a leisurely pace, allowing you to fully admire and appreciate the beauty of the Nile.

This evening gather with the group for a special barbecue dinner on a nearby island.

Day 9: Kom Ombo | Nile

Monday, November 10, 2025 (B,L,D)

Today set out for the fascinating temple of Kom Ombo, a rare double temple dedicated to two ancient gods: Sobek, the crocodile-headed deity, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. Inside, well-preserved reliefs and hieroglyphs cover the walls. Captive crocodiles were once kept within the temple, and mummified crocodiles can be seen in the sanctuary today. The temple's location on the banks of the Nile adds to its allure, creating a sense of connection between the sacred structure and the life-giving waters of the river.

Today there are no crocodiles north of the Aswan High Dam, but in ancient times a robust population lived in the Nile's waters. Ancient Egyptians believed that by worshipping Sobek they were protecting themselves from these predators.

Return to the dahabiya for a final night of sailing, and partake in a special gala dinner on board.

Day 10: Nile – Disembarkation | Aswan

Tuesday, November 11, 2025 (B,L)

Disembark after breakfast and travel to the Aswan High Dam for a look at contemporary Egyptian construction on a monumental scale. The dam sits 364-feet high with a volume of 57,940,000 cubic yards. The annual flooding of the Nile can now be controlled as the dam collects floodwaters, which can be released manually to maximize benefits for farmland, river flowage and electric power.

Take a motorboat ride to the island of Agilkia, site of the temples of Philae. The most famous temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, was constructed in the 6th century BCE. The site also features the last known inscription written in Egyptian hieroglyphs, dated to 394 CE.

Enjoy time at the hotel to refresh before setting out for Aswan's famous market, Sharia as-Souq. Discover endless displays of aromatic flowers and spices, hand-crafted perfumes, colorful carpets, and other Egyptian and African goods.

Day 11: Aswan

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 (B,D)

After breakfast at the hotel visit Elephantine Island to explore its UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites. Today it's the only on-going excavation site open to tourists.

The remainder of today is at leisure. Take advantage of the luxurious amenities at the hotel, including the outdoor infinity pool overlooking the Nile River and al fresco dining at The Terrace with inspiring views of Temple of Khnum and Elephantine Island.

Day 12: Aswan | Optional Abu Simbel Excursion | Flight to Cairo

Thursday, November 13, 2025 (B,L,D)

Following breakfast guests joining the optional excursion will check out of the hotel and transfer to Aswan International Airport for the short flight to Abu Simbel. There, tour the impressive temples before flying to Aswan to rejoin the group for the flight to Cairo. (This optional excursion can be purchased in advance from our Guest Services team. We recommend reserving early, as space is limited.)

Other guests will enjoy a morning at leisure before transfering to Aswan International Airport for the afternoon flight to Cairo.

To commemorate your remarkable experiences in Egypt, gather with fellow travelers one last time this evening for a special farewell dinner.

Day 13: Cairo | Depart for U.S.

Friday, November 14, 2025 (B)

Use the skybridge conveniently connecting the hotel to Terminal 3 of Cairo International Airport for flights home.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • 7 nights luxury hotel accommodations
  • 4 nights aboard a stately dahabiya
  • 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 7 dinners
  • All excursions listed on the 13-day itinerary including admission to sites and venues
  • Excursion transportation
  • Internal airfare from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo
  • Gratuities to hotels, drivers, dahabiya staff, porters and guides
  • Group airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

rates

Category Rate*
Classic: $6,995
Suite: $8,995
Single (Classic): $11,495

*Special group rates; limited offer. Rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Internal airfare between Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan is included. Otherwise, airfare is not included.

optional pre-tour

Alexandria

Just a three-hour drive from Cairo rests the Mediterranean oasis of Alexandria. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, the city was once a major intellectual center of the Greek and Roman empires, and home to the rulers of the Ptolemaic dynasty—including Cleopatra. Explore its mythic vestiges, and enjoy leisure time to experience the modern charms along the Corniche, Alexandria's waterfront promenade.

Activity Level: 3

Full Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

Day +1: En Route from U.S.

Thursday, October 30, 2025

Day +2: Arrive in Cairo, Egypt

Friday, October 31, 2025

Upon arrival to Cairo International Airport transfer to your five-star accommodations and enjoy the first evening at leisure.

Day +3: Cairo | Alexandria

Saturday, November 1, 2025 (B,L)

After breakfast take a pleasant three-hour drive to Alexandria, an important center of learning in the ancient world. Built under the reign of Alexander the Great, Alexandria is the playground for Egypt’s elite, enriched with a spirit that is more Mediterranean than Middle Eastern. During a guided tour visit the Roman Amphitheatre, the famous Catacombs and the Citadel of Qaitbay.

The remainder of the day is free to explore the city.

Day +4: Alexandria

Sunday, November 2, 2025 (B,L)

This morning visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, featuring exhibits spanning from prehistoric times to the present, a vast archaeological display and a royal mummies gallery.

Afterward explore the architecturally stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a recently constructed, modern interpretation of its ancient predecessor. This structure features four museums, a planetarium and can accommodate up to eight million books.

The afternoon and evening are at leisure to relax at the property or venture into town.

Day +5: Alexandria | Cairo | Main Program Begins

Monday, November 3, 2025 (B)

After breakfast return to Cairo to join fellow travelers on the main program.

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • 3 nights luxury hotel accommodations
  • 3 breakfasts and 2 lunches
  • Touring by an English-speaking guide
  • Admission to all sites listed in the itinerary
  • Guided Alexandria city tour including the Roman Amphitheatre
  • All gratuities and porterage
  • All airport and hotel transfers

Rates

Category Rate*
Double: $1,995
Single: $2,995

*Pre-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.

optional post-tour

Jordan

Journey to the ancient world of the Middle East, where impressive historic architecture towers over the present day. Discover the endless layers of spiritual and religious icons dotting this Holy Land, culminating with a once-in-a-lifetime visit to the Dead Sea.

Activity Level: 3

Full Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Day 13: Cairo | Flight to Amman

Friday, November 14, 2025 (L,D)

A sprawling city spread over 19 hills, Amman is the modern—as well as the ancient—capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Known as Rabbath-Ammon during the Iron Age and later as Philadelphia, the city was once part of the Decapolis League (10 cities in eastern Palestine that were formed after the Roman conquest of Palestine in 63 B.C.). The city now boasts a population of around four million people. Begin by exploring the region's history at the Jordan Museum, then ascend to the Amman Citadel for a spectacular view of the old city, including the 6,000-seat 2nd-century Roman theatre.

Day 14: Amman | Jerash 

Saturday, November 15, 2025 (B,L,D)

Travel to Jerash, the city of 1,000 Pillars. Buried beneath sand for centuries and excavated during the past 70 years, the ruins of Jerash reveal urban development from an ancient time, such as paved streets, public plazas, temples and fountains. Stand before its Triple Arched Gate, the enormous Hippodrome, the Roman Amphitheatre and the only Roman Forum surrounded by 63 jonick columns.

Day 15: Amman | Madaba | Mount Nebo | Petra

Sunday, November 16, 2025 (B,L,D)

After breakfast explore the prosperous ecclesiastical center of Madaba where some of the world's finest Byzantine mosaics were produced between the 4th and 7th centuries. Several church floor mosaics can be seen in their original locations, including Madaba's real masterpiece inside the Orthodox Church of Saint George. It features a 6th-century A.D. map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land, which is the earliest religious map of that area to survive from antiquity. 

Afterward travel to Mount Nebo, which overlooks the Dead Sea, Jordan's River Valley, Jericho and the distant hills of Jerusalem. A small church was built on Mount Nebo in the 4th century to commemorate the end of Moses' life. The church was subsequently expanded in the 5th and 6th centuries into the present-day large basilica with its stunning collection of Byzantine mosaics.

Day 16: Petra

Monday, November 17, 2025 (B,L,D)

Spend the day inside the ancient city of Petra, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and considered Jordan's most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction. A major caravan city for merchants during the Hellenistic and Roman times, Petra is impressively carved from the surrounding red rock cliffs and is the site of on-going archaeological excavation missions.

Day 17: Petra | Little Petra | Dana | Dead Sea

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 (B,L,D)

Following check out take a short drive north to Siq al-Barid, also known as “Little Petra.” This site is thought to have been an important “suburb” of Petra and features numerous tombs and temples. One of its main attractions is the Painted House, which contains some of the only remaining 1st-century Nabatean frescoes.

Continue to the 15th-century stone village of Dana where the buildings have rarely changed over the past five centuries. The village is also within Jordan’s largest nature reserve and renowned for its hiking. Take a stroll through the pomegranate grove then enjoy lunch with the special treat of spectacular vistas over the rugged landscape of canyons and peaks.

The day concludes at the Dead Sea, with its warm, soothing and supremely salty water. With its sea bed resting some 1,400 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea's azure waters contain a high concentration of minerals, creating an incredibly buoyant site for soaking and rejuvenating.

Day 18: Dead Sea

Wednesday, November 19, 2025 (B,L)

Spend a leisurely day at the Dead Sea. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast and lunch and perhaps take time for a mud mask and dip.

Day 19: Dead Sea | Amman | Depart for U.S.

Thursday, November 20, 2025 (B)

Guests departing during the suggested times will check out of the hotel and take the complimentary group transfer to Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport for flights home.

Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • Internal airfare from Cairo to Amman
  • 6 nights luxury accommodations 
  • 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners
  • Admission to all sites listed in the itinerary
  • Touring by an English-speaking guide
  • All gratuities and porterage
  • Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested times

Rates

Category Rate*
Double: $4,995
Single: $6,895

*Post-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Internal airfare from Cairo to Amman for the post-tour is included. Airfare otherwise not included.

Travel Insurance

Though not required, we recommend that all guests purchase travel insurance as a means to recoup expenses if canceling or departing early from a trip becomes necessary. Information will be emailed to you with your confirmation documents. If you are on an international departure, you should purchase travel insurance that—at a minimum—provides emergency medical, evacuation, and repatriation coverage. You can call Travel Insurance Services directly at 800.937.1387 or visit www.travelinsure.com/calalumni for detailed information about various coverage options. Please indicate if you purchased travel insurance on the Guest Information Form.

Membership Statement

One traveler per room, whether an alum or friend, must be a current Cal Alumni Association member at the time of departure to participate in Cal Discoveries Travel offerings. Payment of $60 for seniors 65 years and over and $75 for others establishes a membership with all Association benefits. Memberships are for individuals only, and are non-refundable and non-transferable. A traveling pair and their children under 21 years of age may travel on one membership. Please enroll online at alumni.berkeley.edu/join.

The Cal Alumni Association (CAA) is a self-funded nonprofit organization that relies on donations to provide programs and services that support students, alumni, and the University. To make a gift, please visit alumni.berkeley.edu/donate. Thank you for choosing CAA as the recipient of your generosity.


Booking Flights

Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.

guest feedback

FAQS

Orbridge looks forward to welcoming you on tour. Find frequently asked questions below to help you prepare for your travels.

NOTE: For guests confirmed on this tour, important Program Documents will be sent to the email address provided during the reservation process approximately four to five months prior to your departure date. Final Documents will be emailed and shipped via FedEx approximately two weeks prior to your departure date.

If you have questions about those documents or have questions not addressed below, contact Orbridge Guest Services at (206) 855-6929 or via email at guestservices@orbridge.com.

ABOUT THE TOUR

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, guests should be able to enjoy two hours or more of walking, be sure-footed on uneven surfaces (gravel, sand, stone), and be able to walk up and down stairs without assistance.

Due to the structure of some buildings, handrails may not be present, and facilities for the disabled may be limited.

Arrival and departure information is provided in the Air & Transfer section of the Confirmation Documents emailed to reserved guests approximately five to seven days after booking a tour. Guests who arrive and depart during the suggested times are eligible to receive complimentary airport transfers. If you need an additional copy of your Confirmation Documents or have questions, email guestservices@orbridge.com for assistance.

A visa is required for all U.S. citizens to enter Egypt. For guests arriving during the suggested time, tourist visas will be obtained by your airport representative prior to your arrival. The representative will be awaiting guests in the immigration area with a red Orbridge sign. Visa payment ($25 USD per person, payable in exact cash only) is due directly to the representative upon arrival.

For guests arriving outside the suggested time, including those who have purchased a pre-night hotel room through Orbridge, it is the guests' responsibility to obtain a tourist visa upon arrival in Cairo. Visas can be purchased at kiosks located directly inside the immigration area. Further, if transfers have been purchased through Orbridge, a representative holding a red Orbridge sign will be awaiting guests at the entrance to the immigration area.

We do not recommend using the e-visa process for Egypt, as it is prone to errors and long processing times.

A passport is required for all U.S. citizens traveling internationally. Ensure that your passport has sufficient space for entry and exit stamps, and that it is valid for six months after the date of your return from this tour. Send a copy of your passport photo page to Orbridge at least 90 days prior to departure.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, contact the Embassy of Egypt for more information and requirements.

For the optional post-tour, a visa is required for all U.S. citizens to enter Jordan. Visas will be obtained for guests by the airport representative prior to arrival, free of charge.

The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is Egypt's legal currency, however, some establishments accept U.S. dollars. We recommend carrying some U.S. cash and local currency in small denominations to cover your expected expenses, about $200.

ATMs are available at each hotel visited during this program as well as in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Check with your bank to ensure you can use your ATM card in a foreign country. ATMs typically offer the best exchange rate.

Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, and American Express is rarely accepted. When using a major credit card, you may be charged a higher exchange rate than if you use cash. Be aware that credit cards might not be accepted for small purchase amounts, and vendors may require a minimum purchase.

Inform your bank or credit card company prior to departure that you will be using your card(s) in another country to avoid security blocks. Your bank or credit card company may charge a fee for international transactions.

For the optional post-tour, the Jordanian Dinar (JOD) is Jordan's legal currency, however U.S. dollars are widely accepted, as are most major credit cards. ATMs are located in all hotels visited during the post-tour and throughout major cities.

Egypt's winter months (October-February) typically offer highs in the mid-70s °F and lows in the upper 40s °F. As is typical in desert climates, temperatures can drop rapidly after sunset. There is very little rainfall and an abundance of sunshine.

For the optional post-tour, Jordan winters have average highs in the mid-50s ºF to mid-60s ºF and lows in the upper 30s ºF and low 40s ºF. There is also sporadic rainfall in Northwestern Jordan, including Amman and the surrounding area.

Check the predicted forecast for your travel dates on weather.com to help you prepare.

Egypt uses two types of electrical outlets both on a 220V system:

  • Type C—two-wire ungrounded and unpolarized prongs
  • Type F—two round pins with two earth clips on the sides

You will need an adapter to use North American electrical appliances. A Type C adapter will also work in Type F outlets.

Converter Requirements: North American 110V or 120V appliances will require a converter to operate on a 220V system. The need for a converter also depends on your electrical device. Many newer devices are equipped to handle dual voltages. Before using a converter, check the power label on your device. If it shows "110V AC or 120V AC," it requires a converter (curling irons and flat irons will likely need one). If the label shows "110-240V," it is dual voltage and only requires an adapter plug. Some devices have a switch to go back and forth between voltages.

Use a high quality electric current converter to avoid risk of burning out your device. We recommend purchasing an international adapter/converter set so that your two-or three-prong plug can connect to the electrical outlets and convert the voltage, if necessary.

For the optional post-tour, Jordan uses multiple outlet types, each requiring an adapter and converter:

  • Type C—two-wire ungrounded and unpolarized prongs
  • Type D—three large, round prongs that form a triangular pattern
  • Type F—a grounded version of Type C (Type C plugs will work in Type F outlets and vice versa)
  • Type G—three rectangular prongs that form a triangular pattern
  • Type J—two round pins and a grounding pin (Type C plugs will work in Type J outlets)

On the post-tour, you should only need an adapter and converter for Type C and Type G plugs. If you are traveling independently in Jordan outside of our program, you may need an adapter for other outlet types.

While cellular service is available in Egypt (though unreliable in more remote areas) your U.S.-based cell phone may or may not work depending on your phone plan. Prior to travel, check with your cell phone provider about international phone plans, international fees, and service availability.

While sailing on the dahabiya, there is no internet service, but cell service may be available.

Although Egypt is a Muslim country, Egyptians are used to seeing Western tourists and do not expect the same standards of modesty with respect to clothing. It's best to err on the side of modesty, so female travelers should make sure their shoulders and knees are covered, and avoid anything low-cut or too form-fitting. Women are not required to cover their heads, but it is a good idea to bring a scarf to provide extra coverage at some sites.

While at the hotels and on board the dahabiya, resort wear is acceptable, including shorts and swimsuits.

Egypt prohibits the sale and consumption of alcohol in public places, with the exception of hotels and tourist facilities approved by the Minister of Tourism. You will be able to purchase alcoholic beverages at the hotels and most restaurants during this tour, however, options may be limited.

Taking photos may be restricted at some religious and government sites. Some sites require that visitors purchase a separate photography ticket, which typically costs between 50-300 EGP ($3-20 USD).

While shopping at the bazaars and specialty stores can be exciting, scams are common. We cannot guarantee the quality or authenticity of souvenirs purchased in Egypt, even in the shops that seem reputable or that you may visit with your guide. In the bazaars, never pay the first price that is quoted to you—haggling is a way of life in Egypt, and merchants expect it. Your guides will advise you of appropriate prices for common souvenirs. Before engaging with a merchant, decide what price you are willing to pay. Begin by offering something much lower, then let the vendor argue you up, but not above, your maximum price. Haggling is generally good-natured, but merchants can sometimes be aggressive. If you are not interested, offer a firm "la, shukran" (no, thank you) and walk away.

It is not uncommon for travelers to experience stomach upset after the first few meals in Egypt. We recommend avoiding uncooked and unpeeled fruits and vegetables, as well as street food. We recommend bringing antacid and/or anti-diarrheal medication to help aid in your comfort while traveling.

Porterage for one piece of luggage is included in the program price. We recommend limiting luggage to one medium-sized piece and one small carry-on per person.

Bag searches conducted in Egyptian airports may cause travel delays. Further, authorities have been known to confiscate high-end cameras and binoculars. Be aware of this as you pack for your trip.

Loose, lightweight clothing is recommended. Some locations can be dusty, so you may want to avoid white clothing during daily touring. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for day tours. Formal wear is not required for dinners. We recommend smart casual attire—polished yet comfortable. For men, we suggest a dress shirt or polo with slacks or nice jeans (sport coat and tie are not necessary) and for women, a blouse with a skirt, slacks or nice jeans, or a dress.

A packing list will be included with your Final Documents. Use this form to personalize for your own needs.

ABOUT MY RESERVATION

The online Guest Information (GIF) does not allow you return and make updates once originally submitted. To update existing information, email the details to guestservices@orbridge.com, and your account will be updated accordingly.

To complete the GIF for the first time, access the secure online form here. It should take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. The system will not save partially completed forms, so it's important to complete and submit the form in one sitting.

Access the secure passport form here to input information and upload an electronic copy.

Some domestic tours require us to collect a copy of the photo ID you plan to use while traveling in order to confirm on-tour arrangements. If you have been requested to provide a copy, upload a copy of your ID here.

To pay by check, make the check payable to Orbridge LLC and mail it to:

Orbridge
P.O. Box 1376
Poulsbo, WA 98370

To pay by credit card, click here to access our secure online credit card portal. Be sure to click “submit information” at the bottom of page one in order to be directed to the payment screen.

To pay by electronic funds transfer (EFT), click here to access our secure payment portal where you will be able to conveniently and securely provide your account and routing number.

Payments made by check or EFT may be eligible for a discount. Reference your final payment reminder or email guestservices@orbridge.com to learn more.