Off-the-Beaten-Path Luxury in Egypt: Cairo, Alexandria & Siwa - 7 Days

Day 2: Transfer to Alexandria, Guided History Tour With an Egyptologist

After a brief but eventful day in Cairo, you'll say goodbye to the capital as your private driver whisks you off to Egypt's northern coast and Alexandria. Sitting on the Mediterranean, this ancient city is just as famous for its historical landmarks as its beautiful beaches, resorts, and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Your driver will drop you off at the Steigenberger Cecil Alexandria. This 4-star hotel sits on the waterfront in the city's center, next to the expansive Saad Zaghloul Square. With a rich history and elegant charm, it offers convenient access to many of the city's cultural and historical attractions, including the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and National Museum. The hotel features a rooftop pool, spa, and deluxe rooms with luxurious furnishings and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. There are also multiple eateries and bars, from quaint cafés to opulent fine-dining restaurants.

After you settle into your hotel, meet a local Egyptologist who will lead you on a private tour to experience the iconic history of this ancient city. First, tour the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, one of Egypt's largest Roman burial sites. Next up is the second-century Roman Amphitheater, followed by a visit to the Alexandria National Museum, which displays more than 1,800 artifacts from Egypt's history. The theme continues with a private visit to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Library of Alexandria). Dating to the third century BCE, today, the museum houses over one million books and manuscripts.

Day 3: Transfer to Siwa via El-Alamein, Lunch in Marsa Matruh

It's another early start as you hit the road for a full-day, eight-hour private transfer west across Egypt to the vast Sahara Desert and the legendary Siwa Oasis. Located near the border with Libya, Siwa is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, including vast dunes, salt lakes, and natural springs.

Crossing the desert, you'll stop in El-Alamein, located on the Mediterranean coast a couple of hours from Alexandria and the site of two major World War II battles. While here, you'll visit a war museum and cemetery dedicated to these battles. Continue to the resort town of Marsa Matruh for a lunch break in one of the local restaurants.

After eating, continue the rest of the way to Siwa and check into Ghaliet. This charming ecolodge and spa is an oasis in its own right, dotted with palm trees, it blends seamlessly into the surrounding desert. It's an intimate hotel (just 12 rooms) offering a welcome blend of eco-friendly accommodations and luxurious amenities. One of Ghaliet's many highlights is its commitment to sustainability. The lodge utilizes renewable energy sources, water-saving techniques, and locally sourced materials to minimize its ecological footprint. That means you can enjoy the inviting outdoor pool guilt-free!

Day 4: Siwa Grand Tour: Tombs, Springs, Temples, Museums & Islands

After an early breakfast, meet your driver and explore the Siwa Oasis. Your private guide will lead you to some of the area's major sites and landmarks, including Gebel el-Mawta (the Mountain of the Dead), which houses tombs dating back to the Saite Dynasty (664 BCE to 525 BCE). Venture through the mountain's winding passages as your guide regales you with stories of the pharaohs who once rested here.

Your next stop is the famous Cleopatra Bath, an oasis spring acclaimed for rejuvenating properties. Swim in the naturally warm water, just as Cleopatra is reputed to have done. Continue to the impressive Oracle Temple, an ancient religious sanctuary from the sixth century BCE. It's said that Alexander the Great visited this temple seeking affirmation during his quest to conquer Egypt.

Next, you'll learn more about the rich history and culture of the region at Siwan House, a museum set in a historic house with exhibits on the local inhabitants' traditional crafts, costumes, and daily routines. At sunset, visit Fatnas Island (also known as Fantasy Island), a palm-covered islet on Lake Siwa famous for its sunsets and picturesque views of the salt lakes. Afterward, you'll return to your ecolodge in time to enjoy a spa treatment or yoga session.

Day 5: Siwa Oasis: Old Shali, Safari Tour & Bedouin Dinner Under the Stars

Your grand oasis adventure continues this morning with a privately guided visit to the Shali Fortress. Also known as the Shali Citadel, the ruins of this mud-brick fortress date to the 13th century. This ancient stronghold once housed hundreds of people and offers awe-inspiring views of the oasis and surrounding desert. After exploring the fortress, it's time to refuel with a hearty lunch at a local Siwa lodge. Enjoy the flavors of traditional cuisines, such as reearin (Siwan lentil dip), and authentic Siwan hospitality while resting up for the afternoon's safari adventure.

After lunch, you'll zip through the desert in a 4WD vehicle as you navigate the sandy dunes, occasionally stopping to marvel at the sight of petrified forests and fossilized seashells. Stop to take a refreshing dip in one of the pristine lakes or natural springs, then end the day with a classic Bedouin dinner under the starlit desert sky. 

Day 6: Scenic Transfer to Cairo via the Western Desert

Day 7: Depart Cairo