• Hotels (7 nts), Nile cruise (3 nts), overnight sleeper train (1 nt)

• Plane, overnight train, air-conditioned bus, Nile cruise boat, felucca, walking

Days 1-2 Cairo

Egypt's chaotic capital overflows with character and there is plenty of time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to wander the halls of the massive Egyptian Museum, taking in the thousands of ancient treasures on display. Then, head further afield and visit the majestic Sphinx and the sole surviving wonder of the ancient world, the Great Pyramids of Giza.

Days 3-4 Alexandria

Travel to the coast and the great port city of Alexandria. Delve into the mysteries of the Kom Ash-Shuqqafa catacombs. This Roman burial site is the largest of its kind in Egypt and was discovered, quite accidentally, by a donkey. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, built to hold eight million books, will surely inspire.

Days 5-6 Aswan

Watch river life play out on the banks of the Nile from a gliding felucca and enjoy a traditional Nubian dinner. Fly to the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel, built by Ramses II. There is free time to visit the Nubian Museum or walk along the Corniche.

Days 7-9 Nile Cruise

Visit the Philae Temple, dedicated to Isis, then set sail on the Nile for a three night cruise in style. Along the way stop to explore the ancient temple sites of Kom Ombo and Edfu. On arrival in Luxor, wander through the temples of Karnak, the biggest and most important temples of its time.

Day 10 Luxor

Discover the jewels of ancient Thebes, the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the royal burial sites in the Valley of the Kings.

Days 11-12 Cairo

Plunge into the bustle of the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. FInish the adventure with a final farewell dinner.