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Egypt

2024 – 14 Day – The Trail of the Holy Family & Nile Cruise

Prices from £4,399 pp

Single Supplement £729

Next available tour:

Tour leader: The Revd Alison Shaw

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The Gospel of Matthew describes the flight of the Holy Family from Palestine into Egypt. This saw Joseph, his wife Mary and their infant son Jesus escape King Herod’s Massacre of the Innocents which was typical of Herod’s extreme behaviour recorded independently by the Jewish historian Josephus. McCabe’ Trail of the Holy Family tour follows their footsteps around Egypt as well as visiting the classical, ancient Egyptian and Pharaonic sights of Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and the Nile.

With over 10 million Christians Egypt is home to one of the largest Christian populations of the orient. Cairo’s Coptic district has seven churches dating back to the early Christian era. We celebrate worship in the St. Sergius Church, built on a crypt where the Holy Family took refuge, visit the Hanging Church of the Virgin Mary as well as the Virgin Mary Tree in El Matareya. On route to Luxor, we tour the church hewn out of the cliff beside the river at Gabal Al-Teir and the Monastery founded around a cave where the Holy Family sought refuge before continuing to the Monastery of Al Muharraq in Assiut built where they remained for just over six months. Jesus is said to have returned following his resurrection to consecrate the altar.

Along the way you will also explore sand-covered tombs, the Pyramids, ancient Pharaonic temples and see the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, where Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered by Howard Carter. Gaze in awe at the treasures in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and witness at close hand the splendour of Edfu and several waterside temples. From Aswan take the scenic drive to gasp in awe at Ramses II’s temple masterpiece at Abu Simbel. This spiritual journey on the trail of the Holy Family with the Wonders of the Ancient World all await you!

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Itinerary

  1. Fly to Cairo (D, DR)

    Meet your Tour Manager and fellow holy family trail members at Heathrow Airport and fly direct to Cairo. On arrival you will be met by our local representative, who will assist with expediating immigration and customs formalities as well as your Egyptologist who will be with you throughout your entire time in Egypt. Transfer by coach to your Cairo hotel and check-in for a three-night stay.

    Evening: welcome drinks reception followed by dinner in your Cairo hotel. If arriving late welcoming drinks will be tomorrow and dinner will be a cold platter in your room.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  2. Cairo – Coptic Cairo and Holy Family sites (B, L, D)

    Morning: visit Coptic Cairo and take mass in the Church of St. Sergius, dating from the fifth century and built upon the site of a crypt where the Holy Family are said to have sheltered during their time in Egypt. After, we visit the Hanging Church, built atop the walls of the 4th century BC Roman fortress of Babylon and the Coptic Museum.

    Afternoon: included lunch in a local restaurant followed by a visit to the suburb of Ma’adi a to visit the domed church of Al Adaweya (the ‘Church of the Ferry Crossing’) commemorates the traditional spot where it is believed the Holy Family embarked on a felucca to sail up the Nile.

    Evening: dinner in an atmospheric local restaurant in Cairo.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  3. Cairo - Memphis, Sakkara & The Pyramids (B, L, D)

    Morning: visit Sakkara, the world’s oldest major stone structure built in the third dynasty (around 2630 BC) for King Djoser as a step pyramid. Continue to Memphis, founded by King Menes as the first Capital of Egypt and the centre of rule and culture for over 3000 years and see the Statue of Ramses ll.

    Afternoon: enjoy lunch overlooking the Great Pyramids of Giza: Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinos. The Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops is the oldest and largest and Egyptologists believe that the pyramid was built as a tomb for fourth dynasty Egyptian Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops in Greek) over a period of 20 years. After, continue to the Great Sphinx, the head of a pharaoh with a lion’s body.

    Evening: dinner in your Cairo hotel.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  4. Gabal El-Teir and the Monastery of the Virgin Mary (B, L, D)

    Morning: depart Cairo to follow the trail of the Holy Family to Samalout where you will enjoy lunch on arrival at a hotel near the bMonastery of the Virgin Mary at the top of Gabal El Teir overlooking the Nile.

    Afternoon: tour the beautiful church hewn out of the cliff beside the river at Gabal Al-Teir and the Monastery which is said to have been founded around a cave where the Holy Family sought refuge for three days. The cave now houses an icon of the Virgin Mary which is said to have special properties. After, check-in to your hotel in El Minya for an overnight stay.

    Evening: dinner in your hotel in El Minya.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  5. Ben Hassan and the El Muharraq Monastery (B, L, D)

    Morning: visit the tombs of Ben Hassan, carved into ‎limestone hills on the East Bank of the Nile. The burial chamber dates back to the Middle Kingdom, from 2055 until 1650 B.C and was established to bury the ‎provincial rulers who chose to be buried in their provinces, because of their ‎growing power and independence, rather than being buried near their kings in ‎Saqqara.‎

    Afternoon: continue to the Monastery of Al Muharraq in Assiut (known as the Monastery of the Holy Virgin). It was built where the Holy Family remained for just over six months. Their time was spent mainly in a cave which became, in the Coptic era, the altar of the Church of Virgin Mary. Jesus is said to have returned following his resurrection to consecrate the altar. Later, continue to Assiut and check-in to your hotel for an overnight stay.

    Evening: dinner in your hotel in Assiut.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  6. Abydos Temple & Denderah Temple (B, L, D)

    Morning: drive towards Luxor and visit the Abydos Temple, one of the most important religious sites to ancient Egyptians. At least once in their lifetime, they would have hopes to visit Abydos, which was strongly associated with the entrance into the afterlife. The largest and most significant is the Temple of Seti I, who was the father of the great Ramesses II.

    ‎Afternoon: after lunch in a local restaurant continue for a visit of the temple complex of Denderah. Extending to around 40,000 square metres Denderah boasts a basilica, two birth houses, a sacred lake, and numerous other temples and shrines within its walls. All hail from different ancient Egyptian eras and the period of Roman provincial rule. Later, continue to Luxor and check-in to your hotel for an overnight stay.

    Evening: dinner in your hotel in Luxor.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  7. Cruise - Luxor Temple & Karnak Temple (B, L, D)

    Morning: built on the site of Thebes during the New Kingdom period (1550-1069 BC), Karnak was the all-powerful capital of Egypt. The complex was added to in stages over 1,500 years by successive generations of pharaohs, and the resulting collection of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons and obelisks acts as a vast archive of history. The beautiful Luxor Temple by the side of the Nile is one of the most beguiling Pharaonic monuments and just a short stroll from your ship.

    Afternoon: check-in to your five-star cruise ship, enjoy a buffet lunch on board and the chance to relax and acquaint yourself with your floating home for the next four nights.

    Evening: buffet dinner on board your Nile cruise ship.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  8. Cruise – Valley of the Kings, Hatschepsut Temple & Colossi of Memnon (B, L, D)

    Morning: visit the Valley of the Kings, one of the world’s richest archaeological sites. During the greatest period in ancient Egyptian history, practically every pharaoh was buried here in deeply sunk tombs of extraordinary beauty decorated from floor to ceiling with mysterious images of the afterlife. Continue to the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues which are virtually all that remains of one of Egypt’s greatest temples. After, visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, ancient Egypt’s only female pharaoh, in its superb setting, rising in a series of broad terraces set into limestone cliffs.

    Afternoon: lunch on board and set sail to Edfu whilst watching the Nile scenery gently glide past.

    Evening: buffet dinner on board your cruise ship.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  9. Cruise – Edfu, Temple of Horus - Kom Ombo & the Sobek Temple (B, L, D)

    Morning: visit the Temple of Horus the best-preserved ancient temple structure in Egypt. The temple was started in 237 BC and completed almost two centuries later in 57 BC by the father of Cleopatra. The monumental gateway is guarded by twin granite falcons, representing the deities Horus and Hathor. Later that morning set sail for Kom Ombo and enjoy a visit to the temple dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. The temple has two of everything, each half devoted to one god.

    Afternoon: lunch on board and an afternoon to relax or join your crew and Egyptologist for a fascinating talk on Abu Simbel as you sail to Aswan.

    Evening: buffet dinner on board your cruise ship

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  10. Cruise – Philae Temple, High Dam and unfinished Obelisk (B, L, D)

    Morning: the Aswan Dam became a key part of the plan to control floods, provide water for irrigation, and generate hydroelectricity. Aswan was also the source of Egypt’s finest granite, used by the ancient Egyptians to make statues and to embellish temples, pyramids and obelisks. In the Northern Quarries is a huge discarded obelisk, which would have been the largest of all, but a flaw appeared so it was abandoned. We also visit the islands of Philae and the temples which house monuments of various eras, extending from the Pharaohs to the Caesars.

    Afternoon: lunch on board, then transfer by motorboat to the Aswan Botanical Gardens. Kitchener’s Island was given to Lord Horatio Kitchener (‘Your Country Needs You’) in the 1890s when he was commander of the Egyptian army. Kitchener turned the entire island into a stunning botanical garden, importing plants from India, South-East Asia and other parts of Africa.

    Evening: buffet dinner on board your cruise ship followed by an optional visit of the Sound and Light show at the Philae Temple.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  11. Abu Simbel & Aswan (B, L, D)

    Morning: disembark and travel by road to Abu Simbel. The Great Temple in Nubia near Egypt’s southern border, is among the most awe-inspiring monuments of Egypt. It was cut into the living rock by King Ramesses II (the Great) of the Nineteenth Dynasty, around 1264 BC. The temple is most well-known for the four imposing seated colossal statues that dominate its façade.

    Afternoon: lunch in Abu Simbel and return to Aswan to check-in to your hotel for an overnight stay. In the late afternoon visit the colourful Nubian village on Elephantine Island for some wonderful photo-shots for everlasting memories.

    Evening: dinner in your hotel in Aswan.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  12. Aswan to Cairo – Khan El Khalili bazaar (B, L, D)

    Morning: transfer to Aswan airport for the flight to Cairo. On arrival visit the Egyptian Museum, which covers 5,000 years of Egypt’s past and contains the world's most extensive collection of Pharaonic antiquities. No visit to Egypt is complete without a trip through its galleries. From the museum we continue to The Saladin Citadel of Cairo with impressive views of the city and the Mohamed Ali Mosque at its centre.

    Afternoon: lunch in a local restaurant before visiting the Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar. Once the economic hub of Cairo at the time of the sultans the shops – many arranged around small courtyards – stock everything from household goods to semi-precious stones and souvenirs. After, check-in to your hotel in Cairo for a two-night stay.

    Evening: dinner in your hotel in Cairo.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  13. El Matareya - Virgin Mary’s Tree & Holy Family Church (B, L, D, DR)

    Morning: visit where, the Holy Family rested beneath a tree which came to be known as The Virgin Mary’s Tree, which is by Saint George’ Church where you will enjoy worship.

    Afternoon: lunch in a local restaurant before returning to your hotel in Cairo to relax and enjoy a final afternoon of views of the Nile.

    Evening: farewell drinks reception followed by dinner in your hotel in Cairo.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  14. Depart for the UK (B)

    Departure for Cairo Airport. Bid farewell to your Egyptologist and check-in for your return flight to the UK.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

  15. MOUNT SINAI ADD-ON

    Four days/three nights from £649 - Single supplement from £149 (B, L, D)

    Extend your pilgrimage and travel by road from Cairo, crossing the Suez Canal and driving through the mountains with views of the Red Sea. Stop at the Moses Spring where the prophet found sweet water during the exodus from Egypt to Mount Sinai. After, arrive at Saint Catherine’ Monastery & Mount Sinai to walk in the same footsteps where Moses received the ten commandments as well as the sight of the burning bush. A further memorable and spiritual experience.

     

    Day 14 - Travel to Mt Sinai (B, L, D)

    Morning: bid farewell to your fellow travellers returning to the UK and embark on the scenic drive through the Sinai Peninsula. Small groups will be escorted by a driver-guide and groups of eight or more will be accompanied by our Group Leader as well as our Local Guide. Make a stop at the bridge crossing the Suez Canal to take in the view as you cross to the Sinai Peninsula and start the climb through the mountains with views of the Red Sea.

    Afternoon: after time to enjoy your packed lunch we continue to the site of the Moses Spring where he, it is believed, on the command of God, to have thrown a unique tree into the brackish water that made the water drinkable. It is here where Moses is said to have met his wife Zipporah after protecting her and her sisters from nearby shepherds. Later, arrive at the simple yet comfortable St Catherine Plaza Hotel for an overnight night stay.

    Evening: dinner in the hotel.

     

    Day 15 - St. Catherine Monastery (B, L, D)

    Early morning: optional (included in the cost of course!) transfer to Mt Sinai to gently climb the mountain and watch a breathtaking sunrise. Sinai is the second highest mountain in Egypt (2,285 metres) and is surrounded by stunning smaller peaks. After, descend the mountain and enjoy breakfast in the hotel

    Morning: visit the Greek Orthodox monastery of the God-trodden Mount Sinai located at the very place where God appeared to Moses in the Burning Bush, beneath the Mount of the Decalogue. In the providence of God, it is at this site also that the holy relics of Saint Catherine are enshrined. This is the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery, with a history that can be traced back over seventeen centuries. The monastery predates the divisions of the Christian world, its origins extending to late antiquity.

    Afternoon: relax at your hotel and take time to reflect at this very special holy place. You can linger at the monastery or return to the hotel, swim relax or wander at leisure.

    Evening: dinner in the hotel and the chance to chat with new-found friends and reflect on this spiritual experience.

     

    Day 16 - scenic drive through Sinai to Cairo (B, L, D)

    Morning: return drive to Cairo through the scenery of the Sinai Peninsula.

    Afternoon: check-in to your hotel for an overnight stay and a chance to relax or take a taxi to the bazaar or nearby shopping areas for some last minute mementos.

    Evening: dinner in the hotel.

     

    Day 17 - Departure for the UK (B)

    A relaxed morning before departure for Cairo Airport. Bid farewell to your Local Guide and check-in for your return flight to the UK.

    Key to symbols: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, DR = Drink

Essential Information

Included excursions

  • Coptic Cairo - Hanging Church, Church of St. Sergius, Babylon Fortress and Coptic Museum
  • The Egyptian Museum, Sakkara, the Sphinx and the Pyramids
  • Monastery of the Virgin Mary at Gabal El Teir
  • Ben Hassan and the El Muharraq Monastery
  • Abydos and Denderah Temples
  • Karnak and Luxor Temples
  • Valley of the Kings, Hatchepsut Temple and Colossi of Memnon
  • Kom Ombo and Sobek Temples
  • Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk
  • Abu Simbel including Ramses II and Queen Nefertari Temples
  • Cairo Citadel and Khan Khalili Bazaar
  • Matareya – Virgin Mary’s tree and the Holy Family Church

Optional excursions

All excursions and extras as listed above and below are included! However, being a matter of personal choice and comfort level, the following entrance fees are optional and payable locally to your Local Guide/Egyptologist.

  • Entrance inside the Great Pyramid - approx $30
  • Philae Sound and Light Show - approx $40

Included extras

  • Hotel & ship baggage porterage
  • Local guide/Egyptologist and drivers’ gratuities
  • All restaurant, hotel, ship and many small local gratuities
  • Personal audio guiding system
  • Motor boat cruise and Aswan Botanical Gardens
  • Nubian Village by boat

Included meals & drinks

Meals: all meals are included. Throughout your pilgrimage you will enjoy some meals in the hotels and some in local restaurants. During the cruise, the ship’s main restaurant will offer a bountiful buffet with a mix of continental, regional and traditional Egyptian cuisine prepared by experienced chefs.

Drinks: welcome and farewell drinks, bottled water on-board our coaches during full day excursions (not during the Nile cruise). Bottled water with lunches in local restaurants and tea or coffee after all evening meals.

Our team in Egypt

This holiday includes a qualified local guide and Egyptologist to bring the Holy Family sites and ancient wonders to life. They will be staying with you and escorting you throughout. A faith leader will also escort this pilgrimage and offer worship on some occasions.

Your journey

The flight is direct to Cairo with Egyptair from London Heathrow. Regional flights to Heathrow from some UK airports and flight seat upgrades, for that extra comfort and ease through the airport, can be arranged at a supplement. An overnight stop at Heathrow may be required which we can assist you with. Please enquire at time of booking.

Flight departs Heathrow: 14:00

Flight returns: 21:00

Length of flight to Cairo: five hours

Flight times are subject to change and confirmed with your final paperwork

Egyptian visa - made easy!

A visa is required for all British and EU passport holders travelling to Egypt. For visits of up to 30 days, you can get a visa on arrival at approved bank kiosks within the airport arrivals hall, before reaching immigration counters. We can pre-arrange this so that our representative in Cairo has this all done when you land to expedite and make your journey through the airport as smooth as possible. Currently the fee is £40 which we will add to your booking.

Mount Sinai add-on

Three days/two nights from £649

Extend your pilgrimage and travel by road from Cairo, crossing the Suez Canal and driving through the mountains with views of the Red Sea. Stop at the Moses Spring where the prophet found sweet water during the exodus from Egypt to Mount Sinai. After, arrive at Saint Catherine’ Monastery & Mount Sinai to walk in the same footsteps where Moses received the ten commandments as well as the site of the burning bush. A further memorable and spiritual experience.

Your hotels

Nine nights in four- and five-star hotels based on a double or twin room and four nights on a five-star cruise ship in a double or twin cabin.

CAIRO - RAMSES HILTON HOTEL (5*)

Three nights & two nights

Situated in the heart of bustling downtown overlooking the magnificent River Nile. Next to the Ramses Mall and five minutes from The Egyptian Museum. Ramses Hilton Cairo features spectacular views of the Nile with easy access to the city centre as well as legendary attractions being just 30 minutes to the Great Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx.

Hotel facilities: heated outdoor pool, Jacuzzi and a health club with modern fitness equipment, sauna, steam, massage rooms, hairdresser, beauty salon and on-site shops. Room Service is available around the clock, international restaurants and a bar are available 24/7. ATM and on-site currency exchange.

Your room: air conditioned with private balcony, comfortable seating area and desk, flat screen TV with international channels, complimentary WiFi, tea & coffee making facilities, fridge and safety deposit box.

Your bathroom: walk-in shower or bathtub (on request), hairdryer make-up and shaving mirror, pool towels and complimentary toiletries.

 

EL MINYA – HOLY FAMILY HOTEL (4*)

One night

The locally rated four-star Holy Family Hotel sits within the archaeological park of the Holy Virgin Church with views over the Nile This makes a perfect and simple overnight stop along the trail of the Holy Family.

Hotel facilities: outdoor pool, outside terrace and bar. Complimentary WiFi, safety deposit boxes at reception. ATM and on-site currency exchange.

Your room: air-conditioned with private balcony, TV with international channels, complimentary, WiFi, tea & coffee making facilities and fridge.

Your bathroom: shower over bathtub, hairdryer, pool towels and complimentary toiletries.

 

Please note that in El Minya and Assiut our hotels provide a good level of comfort, but may be of a simpler standard and are locally rated four-star hotels that do not always compare to ratings elsewhere.

 

ASSIUT – CEMENT ASSIUT HOTEL (4*)

One night

A simpler yet comfortable Egyptian locally rated four-star with a welcoming team suitable for our overnight stop with a range of amenities.

Hotel facilities: outdoor pool, gym, sauna, steam, billiard room, outside terrace and bar. ATM and on-site currency exchange.

Your room: air-conditioned with private balcony, flat screen TV with international channels, WiFi, tea & coffee making facilities, fridge and safety deposit box.

Your bathroom: shower over bathtub, hairdryer, pool towels and complimentary toiletries.

LUXOR – STEIGENBERGER RESORT (5*)

One night

Located in a quiet and secluded tropical garden in the heart of Luxor on the east bank of the Nile and an ideal base from which to explore the Nile, the Valley of the Kings, and to discover the ancient ruins.

Hotel facilities: two outdoor pools, one heated, children’s pool, jogging track, mini croquet, volleyball court, doctor-on-call, marina for feluccas, sunset terrace area, hairdresser, gift shop, bookshop, ATM and on-site currency exchange.

Your room: air conditioned with private balcony with garden or Nile views, desk, flat screen TV with international channels, complimentary WiFi, tea & coffee making facilities, fridge and safety deposit box.

Your bathroom: separate walk-in shower and bathtub, hairdryer, pool towels and complimentary toiletries.

 

ASWAN – MOVENPICK RESORT (5*)

One night

Located in the centre of Aswan on Elephantine Island just a five-minute boat ride from the centre of Aswan and around 20 minutes' stroll of the Coptic orthodox cathedral of the Archangel Michael.

Hotel facilities: two swimming pools, gym, sauna, steam, massage rooms, hairdresser, beauty salon and on-site shops. ATM and on-site currency exchange.

Your room: spacious and air conditioned with private balcony with garden and Nile views, comfortable seating area and desk, flat screen TV with international channels, complimentary WiFi, tea & coffee making facilities, fridge and safety deposit box.

Your bathroom: separate walk-in shower and bathtub, hairdryer, pool towels and complimentary toiletries.

Your cruise ship

CRUISE – MS SEMIRAMIS II (5*)

Four nights

The Sunrise Semiramis II main restaurant serves a buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The lounge is the place to relax and enjoy the oriental folkloric shows in the evenings. The cruise sundeck with its inviting swimming pool and sun loungers provides the best vantage point along the Nile cruise journey. Both the crew and the management team are attentive to assuring a comfortable and enjoyable cruise.

Ship facilities: swimming pool, gym, beauty spa, massage service, main bar with comfortable lounge, sundeck bar with sun loungers, boutique, souvenir shop, jeweller and laundry service.

Your cabin: 66 standard cabins (22m2) with individually controlled air-conditioning and large panoramic windows. King size or twin beds, seating area and dressing table, flat screen TV with international channels, Complimentary WiFi, tea & coffee making facilities, fridge and safety deposit box.

Your bathroom: shower, make-up mirror, hairdryer, pool towels and complimentary toiletries.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Practical information

Entry requirements

British passport holders travelling to Egypt normally require a visa. For visits of up to 30 days, you can get a visa on arrival by payment in Sterling, US Dollars or Euros; the visa fee is approx US $28 at approved bank kiosks within airport arrival halls, before reaching immigration counters. We can pre-arrange this so that our representative in Cairo has this all done when you land to save time queuing on arrival and additional hassle (getting you to the hotel quicker!) for a fee of £40 which we will add to your booking.

Please note your passport must be valid for six months after the return of your holiday.

For the latest and most up to date travel advice including entry requirements please consult the Foreign & Commonwealth Development Office travel advice website.

www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Health & wellbeing

If you haven't had a booster in the last ten years it is recommended that you be vaccinated for Tetanus and Polio. Food and waterborne diseases are more common, so we recommend vaccinations for typhoid (valid 3 years) and Hepatitis A (validity varies). Vaccination, Covid-19 and health information can change so please contact your local health care provider for the most up to date information. We will send up to date information on entry requirements with your final paperwork approximately 14 days before departure.

Adequate insurance cover will be required for all hospital emergencies and doctors’ visits.

Climate

Egypt has an unusually hot, sunny and dry climate. The weather is always sunny and clear in Egypt, especially in cities such as Aswan, Luxor and Asyut. It is one of the least cloudy and least rainy regions on Earth.

Clothing

Egypt is more liberal than its Arabic neighbours and although many women choose not to cover their heads it is an Islamic country. In Cairo you should dress inconspicuously and avoid wearing clothes that could be regarded as provocative (e.g. very short skirts, skimpy shorts, strappy tops where shoulders are exposed and low plunging neck lines). Shorts and t-shirts are fine as long as they are not too short and skimpy. Swimwear around hotel pools is perfectly acceptable. For the citadel and mosque visit in Cairo legs and arms are required to be covered but a headscarf is not necessary and you will find next to no other restrictions elsewhere throughout your holiday in Egypt.

We recommend you take clothing for spring/summer weather and a couple of warmer items such as a fleece or sweater for the evenings and in Cairo where it may be a bit cooler. Sports shoes with fairly thick cushioned soles for uneven pavements are also recommended.

Mobility

There is a certain amount of walking (and stairs) involved on a daily basis on this pilgrimage so please make sure you pack comfy footwear for this so that you are prepared. Your Local Guide will keep you updated on a daily basis with what to expect the following day. If you are finding it difficult to keep up then please make sure you tell them so they can help you to find places to rest and relax and then you can re-join the group at a later stage.

Whilst this is not a trekking or adventure holiday there will be some walking required where you may be on your feet for up to 90 minutes in the souks and at some ancient sites. The paving may not always be smooth and seating not always available. As a minimum to cope with this tour we recommend you should be able to walk a mile at a steady pace, climb two to three flights of stairs and be able to be on your feet for up to 90 minutes.

Travel insurance

Ensuring that your holidays are appropriately protected is one of our main priorities. That’s why we have specifically chosen Holiday Extras as our *preferred travel insurance provider to ensure that you are protected before and whilst you are travelling. Holiday Extras offer McCabe Travel guests favourable rates for single trip, multi-trip and annual policies.

For more information or to obtain a quote click below for their website

https://www.holidayextras.com/travel-insurance

Or call them on 0800 083 3551 to speak to a friendly advisor.

Please quote AG628 upon calling to receive the best rates

The McCabe Educational Trust

The McCabe Educational Trust is an independent registered charity with the aim of helping inspiring people we meet on some of our pilgrimages. As ‘the haves’ encounter the ‘have nots’ the Trust has become a practical tool for one to help the other.

McCabe Pilgrimages invite all travellers to become partners in this work. A £20 voluntary donation to the Trust’s work is added to every pilgrim’s invoice and all money raised in this way is given in full to the projects the Trust supports. This scheme is voluntary and confidential with nobody put under any pressure to participate.

Full financial security

All money paid to McCabe is fully secure. Holidays including flights are covered by our ATOL license from the Civil Aviation Authority, and holidays without flights are protected by our membership of the ABTOT bonding scheme. If a pilgrimage is cancelled, for instance through lack of numbers or for political considerations, McCabe will promptly refund all monies paid.

AITO Quality Statement

McCabe Pilgrimages is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. McCabe abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter.

You can read McCabe reviews on the AITO website here

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Dates

Our Programme Tour Leader Tour Dates Availability
A Pilgrimage to Egypt including a Nile Cruise Egypt 14 Day Departing From Heathrow Prices from £4399 pp The Revd Alison Shaw 04/10/2024 for 14 days Download brochure Book now Make an enquiry

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