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 We are pleased to re-introduce Egypt gay tour & Nile river cruise. No country in the world has so many impressive antiquities as does Egypt. Few civilizations can compete with Egypt's magnificent monuments, its legendary treasures, or its long centuries of peace. For tens of thousands of years the River Nile has been the focal point of life, and the availability of this unlimited supply of water allowed the creation of a society which produced the wonders of ancient Egypt.
The ancient Greeks saw Egypt as a source of all wisdom. Roman emperors traveled here to marvel at the pyramids. As a result, Egypt is probably one of the world's oldest vacation spots. Tourism dried up after the recent revolution, but now Egypt is regaining stability with its new government, and tourists are beginning to flock here again.
We are thrilled to offer this luxury tour at a discounted price, using the best hotels and a Nile boat from the exclusive "Sanctuary Retreats" line. The savvy traveler who has been waiting for the perfect moment to visit Egypt, and who wants to get there ahead of the crowds, will not hesitate to join this unforgettable journey to a land bustling with life, visual beauty and excitement. Egypt is, without a doubt, the one place you simply must experience in your lifetime, and there is no better time than now!
• The Great Pyramids and Sphinx *
• Egyptian Museum
• Karnak Temple
• Luxor (Ancient Thebes)*
• Valley of the Kings *
• Valley of the Queens *
• Colossi of Memnon
• Luxurious Nile River Cruise
• Temple of Horus at Edfu
• Kom Ombo Temple
• Aswan
• Sail aboard a classic felucca boat
• Philae Temple *
• Optional Abu Simbel *
* UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Note: The proposed itinerary, schedule and activities aboard our Nile cruise ship are subject to revision at the discretion of the Captain.
Day 0 - Friday, March 13, 2015
Depart your home city today on an international flight to Cairo, Egypt (airport code CAI), flying overnight and landing sometime tomorrow. Please be sure to schedule plenty of time for connecting flights from your home city through gateway stops.
Day 1 - Saturday, March 14, 2015
 After you arrive at the Cairo International Airport, you will be met by our local host who will assist with your transfer to our beautiful hotel in the shadow of the Pyramids. We are booked in Pyramid View Rooms. The afternoon is free to rest up from jet lag and enjoy the amenities of our wonderful property. This evening Toto Tours hosts a Welcome Dinner at our hotel.
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Hotel: Mena House Hotel , Giza, Cairo, 5*
Room: Premier Pyramid View Room
Day 2 - Sunday, March 15, 2015
 After a sumptuous buffet breakfast at our hotel we are off to the Egyptian National Museum for a guided tour of the most famous artifacts of ancient Egyptology, featuring the amazing treasures of King Tut. (Even though some pieces may be currently out for a traveling exhibition, the vast majority of the treasures can only be seen at this museum.) We will visit the special room containing a collection of ancient mummies, including some of the most famous Pharaohs. Lunch is included at the Khan El Khalili restaurant, named after the famous Cairo market.
In the afternoon, we enjoy one of the true highlights of the tour—getting up close and personal with the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Our guide will lead a tour of the area, including the Sphinx and entrance to view the Solar Boat. You will have the opportunity to ride a camel (optional) for a great photo-op with the Pyramids and enjoy some free time to soak up everlasting impressions of these world wonders. You might use your time to climb into the burial chamber of one of the Great Pyramids (optional) if it is open. We return to our hotel and the evening is free.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Mena House Hotel , Giza, Cairo, 5*
Room: Premier Pyramid View Room
Day 3 - Monday, March 16, 2015
 Depart our hotel early this morning bound for the airport and our flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, we head to the pier and board our luxury cruise ship, taking lunch on board. In the afternoon, we tour the great temples of Karnak, with its forest of giant pillars, and Luxor, a large sanctuary in what was known as the site of Ancient Thebes. We return to the ship for a cocktail reception and orientation, followed by a gourmet dinner and a free evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Nile River Cruise
Cabin: Standard Cabins Nile Deck (Upgrades Available)
Day 4 - Tuesday, March 17, 2015
 After breakfast aboard our ship we visit the West Bank Luxor to explore the Valley of Kings, a vast City of the Dead, where magnificent tombs were carved into the desert rocks, decorated richly, and filled with treasures for the afterlife by generations of Pharaohs. Some of the most spectacular are found in the nearby Valley of Queens. We will include entrance to at least one tomb during this tour.
Next we tour the dramatic funerary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, ancient Egypt's only female Pharaoh. It merges with the sheer limestone cliffs that surround it, as if nature herself had built this extraordinary monument. One the way back to our ship, the road passes by the famed Colossi of Memnon, huge twin statues, each 75 feet high and hewn from a single piece of rock.
Lunch is served aboard ship as we commence our Nile cruise toward Esna. Enjoy free time on deck or a massage in the spa. Afternoon tea is served in the lounge while we cruise. Tonight's dinner on board is a delightful Egyptian Night costume party for all guests with a chance to dress up in traditional Egyptian "galabeyyas." The dinner menu is a lavish buffet of Egyptian specialties, followed by oriental music and dancing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Nile River Cruise
Cabin: Standard Cabins Nile Deck (Upgrades Available)
Day 5 - Wednesday, March 18, 2015
 After breakfast, our Egyptologist guides us on a tour of the Greco-Roman Temple of Khnum at Esna. The beautifully preserved Great Hypostyle Hall was built during the reign of Roman Emperor Claudius. Returning to the ship, we have lunch aboard while we cruise on to Edfu.
In the afternoon, explore the largest and most completely preserved Pharoanic (albeit Greek-built) temple in all of Egypt – the extraordinary Temple of Horus at Edfu. During our afternoon cruise enjoy an Egyptian cooking lesson on board, followed by afternoon tea as we continue along the Nile to Kom Ombo, where we anchor for the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Nile River Cruise
Cabin: Standard Cabins Nile Deck (Upgrades Available)
Day 6 - Thursday, March 19, 2015
 This morning we visit the Kom Ombo Temple, a unique temple from the Ptolemic period. Divided between two separate Egyptian deities, it honors the local crocodile god Sobeck, and the falcon-headed sky god Horus. The temple stands at a bend in the Nile where in ancient times sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the riverbank. We return to the boat for lunch aboard, while we cruise to Aswan.
In Aswan, we take a short motorboat ride to visit the romantic, majestic Philae Temple on the Island of Agika. Next we proceed to the Granite Quarries, which supplied the ancient Egyptians with most of the hard stone used in building pyramids and temples. Here we can see a huge unfinished obelisk. Next we take a ride on a typical Egyptian vessel known as a felucca (weather permitting) to see Elephantine Island, Lord Kitchener's Botanical Gardens and the Agha Ghan Mausoleum. Tonight's Farewell Dinner will be a gala event (jackets required for gentlemen), with white-gloved waiters serving gourmet cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Nile River Cruise
Cabin: Standard Cabins Nile Deck (Upgrades Available)
Day 7 - Friday, March 20, 2015
 After breakfast on board this morning, we check out of our cruise ship at 8:00 am. The group travels to the Aswan Airport for our return flight to Cairo (or to Abu Simbel if taking the optional tour extension). Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel in Heliopolis, close to the airport. Most international flights depart Cairo in the dead of night, so no activities are planned in Cairo in order to allow you to rest and prepare for your journey at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Fairmont Towers Hotel , Heliopolis, Cairo, 5*
Room: Deluxe Room
Day 8 - Saturday, March 21, 2015
We provide a transfer to the airport for your return flight. You may schedule your flight to depart anytime today, returning you home by this evening.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 - Friday, March 20, 2015
 The Abu Simbel Temples were built by the great Ramses II, Egypt's longest ruling Pharoah. They are among the most recognizable images in the country, and they represent one of the greatest feats of archeological preservation ever accomplished. When the lake created by the Aswan Dam threatened to submerge the Great Temples of Ramses and Nefertari, the Egyptians undertook a herculean project to move the temples, stone by stone, to higher ground. We offer you two options – a quick day-trip, returning to Cairo today, and a more leisurely overnight trip. Both options include the cost of your airfare.
Day Tour Option: $350, including transfers, flights and guided tours of the two temples. Upon returning to Cairo we are transferred to our hotel in preparation for tomorrow's departure (same hotel and schedule as the main tour).
Overnight Tour Option: $750 in double occupancy / $850 in a private room
Those who choose the overnight option will tour the Temples and then check in at our beautiful hotel for some free time. At sunset we return to the Temples and enjoy Egypt's most spectacular sound and light show. Very few tour groups actually spend the night in Abu Simbel, and this event is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of your tour! Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Seti Abu Simbel Resort , Abu Simbel, 5*
Room: Standard Room
Day 8 - Saturday, March 21, 2015
 After breakfast this morning we check out of our hotel in Abu Simbel and transfer to the airport for our return flight to Cairo. We are met at the Cairo airport and taken to our hotel in the Heliopolis section of town, near the international airport. The rest of the day is at leisure to prepare for your departure.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Fairmont Towers Hotel , Heliopolis, Cairo, 5*
Room: Deluxe Room
Day 9 - Sunday, March 22, 2015
We provide a transfer to the airport for your return flight. You may schedule your flight to depart anytime today, returning you home by this evening.
Meals: Breakfast
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• Seven nights accommodations, four of which are aboard a Nile cruise ship:
2 nights at Mena House Hotel in Giza, Cairo;
4 nights on Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Nile River Cruise
1 night at Fairmont Towers Hotel in Heliopolis, Cairo
• Two domestic flights within Egypt (CAI-LXR / ASW-CAI);
• Services of a full-time Egyptologist Guide plus services of a full-time Toto Tours Manager;
• Air-conditioned motorcoach for sightseeing and transfers;
• Airport transfers at beginning and end of the tour;
• All entrance fees for guided excursions except those listed as "optional";
• Meals and accommodations as listed in the itinerary.
• Round-trip airfare between Home and Cairo;
• Cost of obtaining a visa for entry to Egypt;
• Optional excursions, meals and other items not specifically covered in the itinerary;
• Travel insurance; beverages at "included" meals: alcoholic beverages; soft drinks; bottled water;
• Laundry; telephone calls, internet, faxes, or any other expenses of a personal nature.
• Tips to our drivers / guides are not included; we will provide suggested group tipping guidelines prior to departure.
Mena House Hotel , Giza, Cairo
The Mena House is one of the most unique hotels in Cairo, with its own rich and colourful history. Surrounded by 40 acres of verdant green gardens, this palatial hotel is located in the shadows of the Great Pyramids of Giza in Cairo. The royal history of the hotel is reflected in luxurious interiors that are embellished with exquisite antiques, handcrafted furniture, original work of arts and magnificent antiques that are rarely found in luxury hotels. Mena House has played host to kings and emperors, Heads of State and celebrities.
 The Mena House located 700 meters from these wonders of the ancient world offers unmatched views of the pyramids. You can gaze upon the magnificence of the pyramids from your rooms at sunrise and sunset. After dinner at one of the many restaurants, you can return to see them lit up for your private viewing pleasure.
Recreation options at the Mena House hotel include a heated swimming pool, a fully equipped Spa & Fitness centre Regarded as one of the leading luxury hotels in Cairo, the hotel combines the magical charm of a bygone era with unrivalled service fit for royalty. Your interlude at the hotel promises to be a journey of discovery, exploring Cairo's ancient treasures and unravelling the many mysteries of Egypt's past.
Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, Nile River Cruise
The elegant Sanctuary Nile Adventurer has just 32 cabins, offering a luxurious yet relaxed cruise on the Nile. Decorated in a contemporary style, the ship's design combines modern Egyptian culture with seven thousand years of heritage. Add gourmet cuisine as well as sightseeing experiences with the country's most experienced Egyptologists, this is a taste of genuine 5-star luxury on a timeless river.
The Sanctuary Nile Adventurer seamlessly blends contemporary Egyptian culture with authentic character, a blend of East and West. The extensive sun deck areas, with their elegant teak floors, include private cabanas around the pool area, the perfect spot for relaxing while taking in the scenery.
 The Sanctuary Nile Adventurer has 28 standard cabins, two deluxe cabins and two presidential suites.
The cabins and suites have Nile views and are fully air-conditioned with individual control. All have a private bathroom with bathtub, shower and hairdryer, mini bar and LCD television with satellite. International telephone access is available through the reception.
Standard Cabins (14.2 - 16.5m˛)
All cabins are fully air conditioned with individual control and have Nile view plus private bathroom with bathtub, shower, hairdryer, mini bar and LCD screens with satellite television.
 Deluxe Cabins (21.3m˛)
These cabins are larger than the standard, and feature many of the advantages of the suites. They also feature circular windows that provide fabulous views whilst sailing down the Nile. The deluxe cabins are fully air-conditioned with individual control, mini bar, hair dryer, satellite television and LCD screens.
Presidential Suites (42.4m˛)
The two Presidential Suites, with their own private balconies are luxuriously appointed with state of the art technology and opulent furnishings. The traditional tones, and cutting edge design, create an eye catching contrast. The suites also feature exquisite amenities, mini bar, hair dryer, satellite television and LCD screens.
Fairmont Towers Hotel , Heliopolis, Cairo
 At the heart of Cairo's diplomatic and presidential neighborhood, few minutes away from Cairo International Airport elegantly stands the Fairmont Towers, Heliopolis, a luxury Cairo, Egypt hotel.
Located in the city of the sun, Heliopolis, where ancient Egyptians chose to celebrate life, creation and the sun, the hotel enables its guests to easily reach Cairo International Conference Center, the palace of the modern Heliopolis founder, Baron Empain, the Virgin Mary's Tree, and many more of the legendary Cairo attractions.
The design of Fairmont Towers, Heliopolis, Cairo, Egypt hotel comprises a unique mix of contemporary art and authentic décor that echoes modern Cairo along with the distinct Egyptian heritage.
 From the unequalled spacious guest rooms to the state-of-the-art conference facilities, from the water passages across diverse array of restaurants' themes to the mesmerizing day-lighted atrium, every detail of this luxury Egypt hotel accentuate the pleasing interaction of light, water, and natural living elements.
With 840 guest rooms and suites providing the most lavish Cairo, Egypt accommodation, more than 17 superlative dining choices, 69 thousand square feet of Cairo banquet space, unrivalled range of guest services and recreational facilities that incorporate squash, tennis, and beach-volley courts, fully-equipped health club, 3 swimming pools, kids pool and play ground, beauty salon, and convenient shopping choices, Fairmont Towers, Heliopolis portray a destination on its own.
Seti Abu Simbel Resort , Abu Simbel
 In the Heart of majestic Abu Simbel location lies our Seti Abu Simbel Hotel, the only hotel at the foot of the Grand Temple of Ramses II, it is virtually as close as one can get to residing amongst the Pharaohs. Beyond the great historical setting, the Seti Abu Simbel Hotel offers spectacular views of Lake Nasser, the vast artificial water reservoir created after construction of the Aswan Dam on the River Nile.
Housing 6 suites and 136 spacious rooms on two levels.
The extensive onsite swimming pool area spreads out multi levels which mothers an impressive waterfall. A bar and a pool for children are available on the upper level. The lower floor offers breathtaking views over Lake Nasser and the stunning landscape which borders onto the dessert.
 Take your pick at any of our sumptuous cuisine- a taste for everyone! The Hotel's Main Restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner offering both fine oriental and international buffets specialties, or treat yourself and dine under the stars at the cozy and intimate Restaurant Toshka serving an exquisite a la Carte menu and delicatessens.
Entertainment is rife at the Seti Abu Simbel Hotel, with shows performed at the Roman Theatre. Shows vary from belly dancers to whirling dervishes and other traditional Nubian entertainment.
The Amphitheater with spectacular views over Nasser Lake is a great location to socialize watching the world passing by. At night the amazing sunsets here are not to be missed.
Entry Requirements
All visitors to Egypt are required to have a visa. Citizens of the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Canada can get their visa upon arrival, valid for a period of up to three months. Nationals of other countries are required to obtain a visa from the Egyptian embassy in their home country before departing. The cost of the visa is $15, and is not included.
Immunizations
No immunizations are compulsory, but inoculations for typhoid, polio, malaria, hepatitis and tetanus are advised. Please consult your personal physician about immunization planning.
Exit Requirements
No departure taxes are required at this time, other than those already included in the cost of your airline ticket.
What to Bring
Temperatures in Egypt during March can reach the low 90s F in the daytime, but as is typical of desert climates, drop significantly at night. Expect the weather in Cairo to range from a cooler 54 degrees to a comfortable 73 degrees, with Luxor and Aswan warmer in the 60-80 F degree range. Bring light-colored, lightweight cotton clothes that breathe well. Dress is casual and conservative; your clothes should not insult local sensibilities, so please leave tight, provocative apparel at home. Loose garments are more comfortable and allow wind to circulate, creating a natural ventilation system. Pack light and try to carry only one suitcase in addition to your carry-on bag. Pack any medications you require in your carry-on bag just in case your luggage doesn't arrive when you do. Leave expensive jewelry at home—it marks you as a wealthy tourist and an easy target.
Money Matters
The monetary unit is the Egyptian pound (EGP), which is subdivided into 100 piastres (PT). Notes come in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 LE, and 50 and 25 PT. Coins are 25, 20, 10, and 5 PT. On October 30, 2014, the interbank exchange rate was 7.13 EGP to the U.S. $1. All international hotels and most restaurants and shops accept the major credit cards. ATMs are widely available, and many banks provide cash advances on credit cards. Make sure your ATM card is linked to one of the worldwide networks (like Plus, Novus or Cirrus), and call your banks before departure to let them know you will be traveling abroad.
Tipping in Egypt: Tipping or "baksheesh" is generally around 5% of the full sum, usually less if the bill is very high and slightly more if the bill is low. In other words, the more you spend, the less you tip. Taxi drivers are particularly aggressive and any demands for higher tips should be studiously ignored. Most cabbies already add an illegal "foreigner" surcharge. We will provide suggested tipping guidelines prior to departure, and will present a collective tip to drivers, guides and cruise staff at appropriate points throughout the tour.
Liabilities/Disclaimers
Making a reservation with a deposit shall be deemed to be consent to these conditions: Toto Tours does not accept responsibility in whole or in part for any delay, loss, accidents, personal injury, sickness, medical expenses, or property damage occasioned by fault of any person from whatever cause. All tour participants are required to sign a standard liability form.
The tour operators reserve the right to accept or decline any person as a member of the tour at any time and to make whatever changes become necessary with or without notice. Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 8 participants. Toto Tours is not responsible for airline cancellation or change penalties incurred by individual tour participants for air tickets purchased prior to notification that the tour is a confirmed departure.
We strongly encourage you purchase Travel Insurance to cover all aspects of your travel in Egypt.
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