Best Egypt Tour Companies
31 Travel Providers meet your criteria (Providers 1 to 20 shown)
Premier
Exodus Travels
View Profile
Total Trips 546 Trips
Average Price
$ 312 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 9 – 9 days
Trip Prices $ 2,249 – $ 4,179
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Egypt
2 Tours in Egypt
Excellent service
The travel experts I spoke to were very knowledgeable and helpful and answered all my questions. I have traveled with Exodus many times before and they have been excellent.
I first travelled with Exodus eight…
I first travelled with Exodus eight years ago and had a great group tour. I saw a tour in Croatia that interested me and phoned to ask some questions about it. Got through to customer sales straight way and immediately felt that the representative understood my needs and was very pleasant - but not pushy. He found the flights I wanted and offered to hold a place on the tour for a full week. I booked a few days later. Excellent service, thank you Exodus.
It was quick and easy to book
It was quick and easy to book. This is my 5th time of booking and would recommend Exodus to friends.
Egyptian Family Adventure
Trip Style: Small group tour
Nile Cruise & Aswan – Premium Adventure
Trip Style: Small group tour
With over 47 years of experience with small group adventure travel, Exodus specializes in active cultural, walking & trekking, cycling and responsible wildlife tours. They offer more than 600 itineraries across more than 100 countries.
Adventure can take the form of serious and active adventures -- which may involve adrenaline-producing, off-the-beaten-path roughing-it trips to the most remote areas of the world -- or food and wine, premium (five-star), family, or cultural adventures to iconic destinations, which involve more comforts and amenities.
What Makes Exodus Stand Out?
Booking flexibility
Award Winning
Tailor made adventures
Responsible tourism
Expert guides with extensive past experience
Exodus understands that new difficulty that comes with traveling during the coronavirus. They are dedicated to offering flexible services so travelers can book with confidence. Travelers can feel safe when planning their next trip with Exodus’s promised refund guarantee, Covid-19 refund commitment and 21-day no fee flexibility.
The refund guarantee means that travelers will be refunded if they have to cancel for any reason. This also includes cancellations due to the coronavirus. Travelers can also transfer their trip for free up to 21 days before departure.
Creating great and adventurous trips is the top priority for Exodus. They offer many pre-planned tours, but they also work with travelers to add or change existing itineraries or even create one from scratch. This allows travelers to create the perfect trip that fits their travel style, schedule and budget.
Exodus is also dedicated to responsible travel in all of their tours. They strive to improve life for the planet, places and people they visit. Instead of meeting the base guidelines for eco-friendly travel, Exodus seeks more ways to leave a positive impact with their trips. This includes economic empowerment for local communities, reducing waste wherever possible and making lower carbon choices for their adventures.
Each trip is led by a knowledgeable guide who has extensive past experience which adds benefits to any trip. Before working with Exodus, many guides were professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists as well as mountain bike gurus.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Exodus?
All ages
Active travelers
Outdoor and nature enthusiasts
Exodus travelers are a diverse bunch, and average between 35-65 years of age. However, any age traveler is welcome. Exodus creates great packages and tours for families as well as fully customized trips created from scratch.
The Exodus traveler is very active, loves being adventurous, and will be less invested in luxury accommodations or a lot of museum time. You are game for anything, love the travel experience of getting to know a new destination through outdoor adventure, and learning about the culture from local guides and experts.
These trips are great for those who already have a base level of physical fitness, and enjoy meeting new physical challenges. Exodus provides physical fitness guides to show how much training you should expect to do prior to departure.
Top Destinations
Exodus leads 600 + trips spanning all seven continents. From African safaris, to walking and wine in Italy and France to the sun-drenched Croatian coast, to trekking Patagonia, wildlife cruises in the Galapagos and cycling in Vietnam, Exodus has built out their global presence and has active adventures in nearly any destination a traveler could desire.
Exodus Travel Style
Exodus tours are designed for the active and adventurous traveler. This means that most tours include activities such as walking, cycling and safaris. However, for travelers who enjoy cultural and culinary, there are tours and activities for you as well. Exodus offers cultural trips based around food, festivals or family to name a few.
These active adventures vary by way of difficulty from level 1-10, attracting casual cyclists and hikers as well as enthusiasts looking to really push their physical limits.
Travelers can choose from guided groups, private groups, self guided tours or solo traveling. Within each travel style, Exodus offers all the same activities from cycling to wildlife and provides the top itineraries for that specific style to help travelers find what’s best for them.
Most accommodations are charming and locally run with 2-3 star ratings. There are some premium departures available as well as unique accommodation experiences whenever possible. Exodus travelers don’t mind the lower level of luxury as the experience and destination is the highest priority.
Why Choose a Tour With Exodus?
If you love experiencing a new destination whether that’s through the culture, unique wildlife or beautiful outdoors through active and adventurous activities, then Exodus is perfect for you. You love that sense of discovery, of challenging yourself and want to travel responsibly.
Exodus offers great tours already fully packaged, but for the traveler that likes more control over their perfect trip, they offer customizable trips. Travelers get to choose not only the destination but each activity they will partake in to perfectly match their travel style and budget.
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Preferred
Intrepid Travel
#5 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 1,001 Trips
Average Price
$ 203 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 8 – 28 days
Trip Prices $ 1,102 – $ 12,040
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Egypt
30 Tours in Egypt
Cancelled tour, deception and poor customer service
Booked a 'trip of a lifetime' with Intrepid to NZ, having worked throughout Covid in a public facing role.
The booking was made a year in advance - during which we received information about the trip and Intrepid took our money.
Three weeks before the trip we were informed our trip had been cancelled. The explanation given by Intrepid was the NZ local operator (Haka tours) had failed to include us on their attendance list and the tour was now full. The blame was squarely placed with Haka tours.
We managed, with the assistance of our excellent travel agent, to book a self drive holiday. However the whole experience was extremely stressful.
When we arrived in NZ it soon became known to us that Intrepid actually own Haka tours - so the reason given for cancellation was a deliberate attempt to deceive us. Intrepid have done nothing of any use to assist us and I would strongly advise that you do NOT book with them. They are not to be trusted and clearly do not value their customers.
Intrepid just gets it right every time!
Brilliant local tour leader with lots of knowledge and recommendations, local guides who share their great knowledge and insights when visiting a village/palace/temple/fort/etc, small group tours of often like-minded people so you connect very easily with your fellow travellers, authentic and fun experiences (for example street foodie tour by auto rickshaws or tuk-tuks), all the logistics of travelling is taking care of making it so much easier and efficient compared to when you would had to arrange it yourself.
total confidence
PREMIUM INDIA
great tour leader, excellent hotels and a varied itinerary. This all adds up to a wonderful experience where all we had to doing was sit back and enjoy the trip. Very confident in the planning and organisation...well done again intrepid
Real Egypt & Jordan
Trip Style: Small group tour
Essential Egypt
Trip Style: Small group tour
Epic Egypt, Jordan, Israel & the Palestinian Territories
Trip Style: Small group tour
Intrepid Travel - Quick Facts
Founded in 1989
No Single Supplement (rare exceptions)
Small Groups: max 16 on most trips (10 max during Covid-19)
Average Age: 48
Travel Style: Cultural immersion, adventure, overland, sustainable, and active
Accommodation Style: Camping, Hostels, 3 /4 star hotels, locally owned
Average Tour Price: $2,377
Top Regions: Asia, Africa, Europe, South America
Other Brands: Peregrine
Commonly compared with G Adventures »
Intrepid Travel is all about ‘real life experiences.’ With a name meaning fearless and adventurous, Intrepid offers nothing less than big travel adventures -- such as an 11-day hike through Papua New Guinea. However, Intrepid is broad-based enough to offer varied experiences such as food tours in Greece, complete with a visit to a Kalamata olive grove.
What Makes Intrepid Travel Stand Out?
Responsible travel
Industry experts
Authentic experiences
Small groups
Intrepid believes that with great travel experiences comes great responsibility. They are focused on responsible tourism which includes not only treading lightly but also making a positive impact on the destinations they send travelers to. As a Certified B Corp since 2018, Intrepid donates to grass root projects around the world, are a carbon-neutral business and are committed to animal welfare.
Travelers can rest assured when they travel with Intrepid because they will be in the hands of industry experts. Intrepid partners with local leaders to be guides for travelers. This gives travelers first hand experiences from someone who knows the area well.
Above all else, Intrepid strives to get its travelers off the beaten path and under the surface of the local culture. To accomplish this, group sizes are small, maximum of 16 on most trips. This allows for more use of local transportation and lodging, along with fostering cultural immersion. Intrepid also employs local English-speaking leaders who act more as a resource for local exploration than do typical ‘guides,’ shepherding groups from one place to another.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Intrepid Travel?
All ages
All types of travelers
Cultural enthusiasts
Intrepid is one of the early pioneers of the “adventure”-style guided trip. Despite its informal beginnings and emphasis on younger, highly adventurous travelers, Intrepid has expanded to a global company with a broad range of trips to fit all ages.
Intrepid divides its small-group trips into three separate styles of travel, all priced accordingly. “Basix,” for budget travelers, keep inclusions to a minimum and offer plenty of free time. “Original” journeys offer more included activities and hotels, while “Comfort” trips offer luxury experiences that include the highest level of included activities and standards of accommodation, as well as roomier vehicles. No matter what kind of traveler you are, there is a style right for your specific desires.
The age range on Intrepid tours varies widely from tour to tour, and they are welcoming to all ages. The only exception to this are their 18-29 themed tours which are specifically for that age group.
Intrepid travelers have a real sense of adventure - whether this means hard adventure, or simply going deeper off the beaten path. Interacting with locals is an important factor when you travel, as is gaining a unique cultural perspective. A sense of fun is also essential, whether it means going out at night with your tour mates, trying new foods, or exploring the local markets.
Which is better? Intrepid Travel or G Adventures?
Commonly compared, both G Adventures and Intrepid Travel specialize in culturally immersive and off-the-beaten-path experiences. They are top companies to consider if you enjoy local & authetic travel and value having lots of free time during the itinerary. See our ultimate guide to decide which is right for you: Intrepid vs G Adventures, full comparison »
Top Destinations
Originally focused on small group adventure tours to Asia, Intrepid has expanded rapidly over the years, while maintaining its classic, adventurous, and immersive style. Today Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 different experiences in over 100 countries, on all seven continents. Regions with the most trips include Asia, South America, Africa, and Europe.
Does Intrepid Travel include flights?
While all your internal transportation is taken care of, often utilizing traditiona local methods such as tuk-tuks in Thailand, international flights to and from your home and the tour destination are not included. Their travel specialists can recommend where to look for flights however.
Intrepid Travel Style
Intrepid enjoys using local, unique forms of transportation. You might find yourself traveling by felucca in Egypt or in a tuk-tuk on the best Thailand tour of your life.
Accommodations, which could range from guesthouses to home stays, are also locally owned, allowing a more authentic taste of the region while contributing to the local economy.
There are a few broad travel styles to choose from when deciding on an Intrepid tour:
1. Basix - Budget travelers who don’t mind, and in fact prefer, simple accommodations - camping and homestays with basic amenities, and crave a lot of free time for exploring independently will love these tours. Public transportation is used exclusively so pack light! These trips often attract a younger crowd who love the idea of throwing a backpack on, keep plenty of room for the unexpected in their schedule, and allocate their travel funds towards spontaneous bus tickets and street food instead of museum tours and 5 star restaurants.
2. Original - These trips take the backpacker spirit of local immersion, incorporating all the benefits that come with going with a planned itinerary. This style is called “Original” because it’s the type of travel that put Intrepid on the map...pun intended. Accommodations are still simple and budget minded - often homestays are used to give you a true sense of place, personality, and culture. Mostly public transportation is used.
3. Comfort - Intrepid is known for the active adventure style of travel and these trips keep that mentality, with a few more creature comforts thrown into the mix. You can expect higher luxury accommodations that include a wider variety of included amenities, transportation is mostly private, though you can still expect to use some public transport, as is the Intrepid way. More meals are included in the trip price, and more group activities - which means a bit less free time to explore on your own.
Why Choose a Tour With Intrepid Travel?
Intrepid is a good tour company if you don’t mind foregoing some creature comforts for a truly authentic, local experience. If you enjoy meeting locals when traveling, sampling new and exciting foods, and traveling in mixed-aged groups of 10-16 people, Intrepid could be a good fit for you.
It’s important to note, sometimes “ample free time” can be a blessing and a curse. It sounds great on paper, but if you’re looking to maximize your dollar and your vacation time, be sure you understand the implications of having a lot of free time during your itinerary.
For some travelers this is an absolute requirement, but for others it can be tough to branch off and explore independently - you also need to make sure you allocate enough travel money for independent meals.
The tour leaders are great resources of information for how to spend your free time, but if you like having a full day scheduled from breakfast to dinner, Intrepid may not be the best company for you.
Lastly, if sustainable and responsible travel is important to you, Intrepid has poured millions of dollars into local economies, and has a very strong emphasis on responsible travel. So you can feel good knowing that your money helps support some of the innkeepers, vendors, and communities that you’ll meet along the way.
Is Intrepid Travel Safe?
Yes, Intrepid is a very safe company to travel with and they take the safety of their tour goers very seriously.
In response to Covid-19, Intrepid has reduced their group size to an average of 10 people. Their guides have been fully trained on new sanitation requirements and Covid-19 health and safety guidelines.
They have also implemented flexible booking options.
General Covid-19 Travel News
Some countries are beginning to reopen to international visitors, with entry restrictions, while others have remained closed.
Keep checking back regularly to keep up to date with the frequently changing situation of the coronavirus.
Want more information about travel safety and the coronavirus? Read about where it's safe to travel to in 2020 >>
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Premier
Insight Vacations
#9 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 661 Trips
Average Price
$ 313 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 10 – 27 days
Trip Prices $ 3,425 – $ 12,495
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Egypt
103 Tours in Egypt
Great. No hassle experience. Plenty of information sent. Host was also professional and knowledgeable.
Great. No hassle experience. Plenty of information sent. Host was also professional and knowledgeable.
I enjoyed the tour greatly it was very full and I saw lots of Markets and different attractions.
I enjoyed the tour greatly it was very full and I saw lots of Markets and different attractions.
Wonderful venues to visit, guides were great, facilities top notch.
Wonderful venues to visit, guides were great, facilities top notch.
Land of the Prophets - Classic Group, Winter
Trip Style: Group tour
Land of the Prophets
Trip Style: Group tour
Land of the Prophets Summer Classic
Trip Style: Group tour
Editorial Review:
Enriching the lives of curious travelers since 1978, Insight believes incredible travel is more than visiting amazing destinations, it's about the connections you make and how you spend every moment, from authentic experiences that enrich the mind to stylish hotels that rest the soul.
Superior Dining and Dining Choices
An array of delicious dining experiences will enrich your journey. Each tour is infused with flavor, whether you’re being welcomed into the workspaces of chefs, taking your seat at acclaimed restaurants indulging in a curated selection of dining options that delight your palate to your choosing.
Premium Comfort
Travel on luxury coaches that feature double the legroom and personal space of a regular touring coach are customized for smaller groups. Bathroom facilities, device chargers, tray tables and drink holders complete this superior on-road experience. This level of comfort continues with our trusted 5 and 4-star accommodation partners, complemented by many relaxed morning starts and itineraries with a slower, leisurely pace.
Hand Selected Experiences
Go beyond sightseeing. Insight tours are filled with fascinating facts, interesting locals and special access, perfect for curious travelers who are looking for attention to detail. Enjoy personal anecdotes from Local Experts, historians and those in the know, and indulge in insights into culinary traditions and enlightening cultural experiences be it through music, dance and stories.
Personal Services
With your Travel Director taking care of the details and your every need, you’re free to indulge at the moment and savor each destination. Their experience, passion and knowledge of the intricacies of each city, town and region allows them to help create your perfect journey, with your liking and interests in mind.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Insight Vacations?
50+
Food and wine loves
Inquisitive and curious travelers
Affluent travelers
Top Destinations
Insight Vacations offers premium motor coach tours throughout Europe including the UK, North America, South America, Asia, and African destinations.
Why Choose a Tour with Insight Vacations?
Tour in style at a relaxed pace
Unique Insight Experiences
Average group size 35-40
Deliciously authentic dining
Stress-free travel with a Travel Director to guide you
The Insight Vacations tagline is “the art of touring in style”. They take this idea seriously both pre-trip and while you’re on the ground. If you’re looking for luxury beyond the silk sheet stereotype, consider Insight Vacations. Everything is planned out to the letter, groups are small, and you experience personalized service and passionate travel guides every step of the way.
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Premier
Contiki
#11 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 580 Trips
Average Price
$ 192 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 9 – 9 days
Trip Prices $ 1,674 – $ 1,969
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Egypt
23 Tours in Egypt
Cape Safari & Falls...amazing!!!
Worth every penny!! This trip was a once in a lifetime kind of trip and I think was great value for money!!
The trip itself was incredible
The trip itself was incredible, we had so many activities, most of them you had to pay for but it was defiantly money well spent, it was worth it!! There was a lot of travelling involved but it was all an amazing adventure, and we got to get to know everyone much better.
Stunning Scenic South
Apart from going above and beyond they gave us an amazing tour of the south island of New Zealand! The weather gods were in our favour for October giving us alot of sunshine, barely any rain and alot of incredible views to take in! The adrenalin activities are far and wide for Queenstown and of course you enjoy many nights out! Overal a great little getaway! Worth noting there is a bit of driving through the south on the bus but worth it!
Egypt & The Nile
Trip Style: Group tour
Since 1962, Contiki has been a leader in providing exceptional global experiences for 18-35 year olds.
What Makes Contiki Stand Out?
Contiki offers tours curated by travel experts and specifically designed for 18-35 year old travelers. They pride themselves on creating lifelong memories among international groups of like-minded travelers. They offer a comprehensive selection of trips, over 300 of them, all over the world including transport, accommodation, included activities and free time.
Their product range spans three different styles based on the pace of the trip: Discovery Plus, In-Depth Explorer, and Easy Pace. Make sure to read the details of each trip and choose the right one for your travel style.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Contiki?
Is Contiki only for 18-35?
Yes, Contiki is specifically for travelers between the ages of 18-35.Sociable, spontaneous, and easy-going travelers who are between the ages of 18-35 will definitely love the Contiki travel experience. These are trips for those young people who travel for the sheer joy of meeting locals, experiencing the nightlife, relaxing in the sun, and pounding the pavement for the next unique local gem.
Having a good time, being active, and spending less time in museums is something to expect on a Contiki tour. If you’re the kind of young person who likes meeting a lot of new people, are excited to try new things, Contiki could be a good choice.
Contiki trips are very much about being young and having fun - so you might miss a particular cultural attraction in favor of a group decision to instead explore a local market or neighborhood not in the guidebooks. Contiki tends to attract partiers more than bookworms.
The guides and groups are generally warm and welcoming.
Top Destinations
Contiki offers 300+ trips in over 50 countries. They are especially popular for young travelers looking to explore Europe and Asia. Other top regions include Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand.
Contiki Travel Style
Contiki trips keep budget very much in mind when designing their trips. Expect a mix of 2 to 3-star hotels, guesthouses, and hostels on most trips. Contiki uses a mix of private coaches and public transportation to get around.
The Contiki travel style is designed to allow for spontaneity - appreciate and get to know the culture through immersive activities, outdoors adventures, and local gems, off the tourist path.
Contiki trips can be found across a variety of travel themes and styles:
Active: specially designed to get the adrenaline pumping
Beach Vacations: get ready for a tropical getaway
Christmas Tours: experience European Christmas Markets
Detour Mini Adventures: immersive getaways with incredible local hosts.
Hiking & Trekking: work up a sweat in some of the most beautiful locations in the world
Island Hopping: glide from paradise isle to paradise isle
New Year’s Eve Tours: Ring in the new year abroad
Pride Trips: Go all out for Pride in some of Europe’s most out-and-proud cities
Safari: There’s nothing on earth quite like an African wildlife safari
Short Breaks: Trips under 7 days
Ski Holidays & Snowboarding Trips: Our ski trips are a perfect mix of thrills and serenity.
Small Group Tours: the perfect balance between social travel and small groups
Solo Travel: 70% of our travelers join our trips solo, so you'll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories
Why Choose a Tour With Contiki?
Contiki is a great choice for younger travelers looking to socialize with others during their trip. All of their travelers are between the ages of 18-35, and creating memories and becoming a part of something together are the primary reasons for traveling with Contiki.
Groups are a mix of people from around the world including US, Canada, Australia, and the U.K. They have over 60 years of experience leading cultural tours in different parts of the world and have a wide range of options to choose from.
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Premier
Globus
View Profile
Total Trips 428 Trips
Average Price
$ 273 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 6 – 11 days
Trip Prices $ 949 – $ 2,522
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Egypt
8 Tours in Egypt
A Romantic Historical Adventure …
The company provides a varied and interesting experience for travel. It is a pleasure to travel with a company that provides well- informed, competent guides who are are congenial and helpful.
The experiences in the three countries we visited were well chosen and provided entertainment and opportunities for travelers to explore on their own. This was greatly appreciated and provided a balance between the guided tour and the pursuit of personal interest.
Venues for food reflected national specialties and a moderate price range, as well. We loved the dark beer, the strudel, the sausages, and other delights.
Our tour of Budapest, Vienna, and Prague, which highlighted the architecture, history, and grandeur of the region was outstanding. It is difficult to choose one experience: the dinner cruise on the Danube, the strolls among the ruins of castles, the shopping in curiosity shops, chimney pastries wafting their delicious scents in the streets, classical music concerts—and many more experiences, make this trip exciting, and worthwhile for adventurous travelers who embrace history and romance in one of the world’s most enchanting regions.
The tour bus was very comfortable and I enjoyed all of our stops on our route.
The tour bus was very comfortable and took us to beautiful places. Our bus driver Renato was a superb driver and took the best care of us. We enjoyed our time traveling with the bus.
Very exciting and fun vacation
Very exciting and fun vacation. Hotels were amazing, tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable and everything flowed smoothly throughout. I would recommend Globus to anyone.
Cairo & Alexandria Escape with 3- night Nile cruise
Trip Style: Group tour
Cairo & Alexandria Escape
Trip Style: Group tour
Egypt with Nile Cruise
Trip Style: Small group tour
Premier
Trafalgar
#4 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 368 Trips
Average Price
$ 329 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 10 – 13 days
Trip Prices $ 2,825 – $ 3,395
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Egypt
94 Tours in Egypt
Trip is a let down before it even happens.
I haven’t even gone on my trip yet and I will never use Trafalgar for another trip. I booked the Highlights of Eastern Europe trip for September 2022 in early 2022. After I booked the trip I got a new job and moved to a new city. Being a new employee I would not have enough leave to go on the trip. I notified Trafalgar in writing more than 90 days before the trip and requested to reschedule for September 2023. I received an email back canceling my reservation, which was paid in full, and instructing me to call when I was ready to reschedule. When I called to reschedule I was first told I couldn’t reschedule because the trip was less than 90 days. We went back and forth because I had given them notice in writing prior to the 90 days. Finally they allowed me to reschedule but raised the price. When I questioned it I was told there weren’t any deals at that time but if a deal became available to call back and they would give me that price. I originally paid $4095 for a single room and was now being charged $4795. So I checked online today and saw to book this trip today for a single room it would be $4195. I called Trafalgar to get my bill adjusted. They refused saying they don’t do that, even though I was told last summer to call back if the price went down. So I am stuck overpaying for this trip and I’m already disappointed with their customer service. I will never use this company to travel with again. Horrible customer service and they don’t stand by what they say. You can never get through when you call them. 2 hour wait times. I am now wondering what their customer service will be like during the trip. This is an expensive trip and I feel really let down and taken advantage of by this company. Corporate greed at its finest.
Our guide, Patrick, was one of the most thoughtful, knowledgeable, and articulate people we had ever met!
Our guide, Patrick, was one of the most thoughtful, knowledgeable, and articulate people we had ever met! He made sure there was something for everyone, shouted out personal details for everyone, and created a familial atmosphere to help everyone relax and learn together. The local knowledge he and his local counterparts provided added layers of context and history to every beautiful site was saw. He advocated extensively for those with allergies to get real food and not miss out on delicacies, which is a level of compassion I rarely see in the service industry. He made everything memorable and the trip would not have had the level of magic that we will forever remember without him.
hotels was good, coach was good, experiences was good, tour guide and bus driver was great.
hotels was good, coach was good, experiences was good, tour guide and bus driver was great.
Best of Egypt Winter
Trip Style: Group tour
Trafalgar is a name many seasoned travelers will recognize. A branch of the Travel Corporation, whose brands all enjoy stellar reputations, Trafalgar has been offering classic and affordable tours for over 70 years.
Trafalagar Tours - Quick Facts
Founded: in 1947
Group size: Large Groups, between 40-45 people
Mode of transportation: Primarily luxury air-conditioned coaches
Accommodation style: Unique 3 & 4 star hotels and guest houses
Typical age range: 50+
Single travelers welcome (single supplements are required, but often discounted)
Average tour price: $3,796
Top Regions: Europe, USA, Canada
Related TTC Brands: Insight Vacations, Uniworld, Brendan Vacations
What Makes Trafalgar Tours Stand Out?
Great value for pricing and inclusions
Comfortable, not physically demanding tours
Largely focused on cultural immersion
Hand-picked accommodations
Strong reputation
Dedicated to responsible tourism - Founding member of TreadRight Foundation
Good balance of free time and inclusions
Trafalgar is a group tour operator and one of the world’s most awarded tour companies. With over 70 years of experience, they unlock the best of the world from iconic experiences you’ve always dreamed of to getting to know the locals all while having everything taken care of for you every step of the way.
Tours with Trafalgar are comfortable, not too physically demanding, and offer the opportunity to meet, talk, eat and drink with locals. You’ll get to know chefs, artisans, craftsmen, historians, and farmers as you explore what makes each destination truly special.
Trafalgar has a strong reputation, having been around since 1947 - putting them right at the pinnacle of when many premier guided tour companies were established. You’ll meet groups of like minded travelers, enjoy cultural experiences, expertly crafted itineraries with local touches and experiences guides, while traveling in comfort and ease.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Trafalgar?
Older travelers (but all ages are welcome)
Families
Mid to high range budget travelers
Those who enjoy slow-paced itineraries and easy physical activity
Those who favor historic sightseeing & cultural immersion over hard core adventure
If you are an active traveler, perhaps recently retired, eager to explore the world in comfort, visiting a nice combination of unique local spots and classic sites, then Trafalgar could be a great choice.
Possibly you are new to group tours and packages, having been used to creating your own travel experiences at a younger age - Trafalgar provides the perfect introduction to group tours.
You'll have plenty of free time to explore on your own, for shopping, sightseeing, and meals away from the group. Optional excursions are available throughout the itinerary for when you want a bit more structure.
Families will also get a lot out of the Trafalgar travel experience. If you're seeking a family vacation and interested in introducing a new generation of travelers to your favorite country - but don’t really have the time or patience to worry about planning out all the logistics - Trafalgar could be a great choice.
While they offer many trip styles, suitable for travelers of all ages, their classic touch is popular among older travelers. Classic doesn’t mean old fashioned or tired - simply a bit less on the active adventure and more on the historic sights and cultural experiences. They have a number of family focused tours, as well as tailored trips for special interests.
Trafalgar trips are budget friendly, with most trips in middle to low range, including a “Cost Saver” feature that allows you to see more inexpensive trips broken down by ratings and cost clearly. They offer several deals on trips throughout the year.
Trafalgar is a British brand, so many of the attendees on your tour will be from the UK.
Top Destinations
Europe & the UK
USA and Canada
Australia & New Zealand
Asia
South America
With Trafalgar, you can find trips to Europe, USA & Canada, South America, Asia, Australia & New Zealand. While the destinations are widespread, Trafalgar trips explore the culture and their highly trained local guides take you to hidden local spots without venturing too far outside the comfort zone.
Tours in Europe and the UK are among the most popular itineraries, utlizing guest houses and even castles for accommodation!
Their USA & Canada tours are extremely popular for outdoorsy travelers. National Parks are a common itinerary item, as are trips along the Rocky Mountaineer railroad.
In South America, Trafalgar travels to Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Peru. In Africa, they go to Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa. In Asia, it’s Cambodia, China, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
And in the Pacific, Trafalgar visits Australia and New Zealand - some trips in this region are more basic when it comes to accommodation so be sure to read the itinerary carefully!
Wherever you go, you can expect high quality guides, unique destination-specific accommodations, and smooth travels.
They also have a number of religious themed tours, including trips that include excursions to Oberammergau, Bavaria. Once a decade this small town presents a Passion Play, and Trafalgar has had special access since 1970. The next time to experience this unique event is 2020.
Trafalgar Travel Style
The Trafalgar travel style is all about getting to know the culture through activities and connecting with locals. Their main tagline is “Discover the Good Life”. On Trafalgar tours, you get to experience the real thing in a safe, escorted environment with knowledgeable guides there to help with the language and provide historical and cultural context.
"Discovering the Good Life" encompasses perks like skipping lines and private access to classic sites; and unique experiences that bring you to places and among people you’d never have the chance to meet traveling on your own.
This kind of travel is local immersion, but not in the same way a 25 year old might interpret that idea.
Rather than bunking at hostels, going out late at night, and enjoying potentially questionable street food, you’ll stay in premium, centrally located and culturally significant accommodations - everything from bed and breakfasts in Ireland to hotels right on the banks of Norwegian fjords.
Learn cooking techniques in Italy, enjoy private winery tours at French chateaus, and touring a small olive farm in Spain are just a few examples of the kind of unique travel experiences you can expect with Trafalgar.
Groups are large, typically between 40-45 travelers, a max of 52 on trips in the USA and Canada. Primary transportation during the tour is in large coaches, equipped with WiFi (with the exception of Alaska) and featuring large viewing windows - ideal for taking in the scenery as you head to your next spot on the itinerary.
Most meals during Trafalgar tours are included. Trips often include free time during which you can explore on your own, with suggestions from your expert guides.
Why Choose a Tour with Trafalgar?
Well known company
Culturally rich experiences in comfort
Many activities included, plus some optional choices
All guides are expertly trained
Large groups of international travelers
Trafalgar has a solid reputation, and they stick to what they’ve done well for over 50 years. They focus on the classics, providing a culturally rich perspective as you meet locals along the way. Their experience has allowed them to cultivate relationships around the world with local businesses - quality control you can trust for every stop along the trip.
Niche tours based on specialized interests are also something they are proud to offer. Trafalgar is where you go to have the essentials and logistics take care of seamlessly while you sit back and enjoy. Do note that these tours can be quite large - 40 people traveling together in a tour group can be stifling for some.
While they appeal to an older crowd due to their history and recognizable name, Trafalgar has an impressively well integrated social media presence. Trips on their site are accompanied by instagram posts from real travelers who have been on the same tour, using the hashtag #SimplyTrafalgar.
Old or young(ish), couple or single, traveling Simply Trafalgar inspires confidence, comfort, and enjoyment.
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Premier
Avalon Waterways
#35 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 196 Trips
Average Price
$ 378 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 10 – 14 days
Trip Prices $ 3,804 – $ 5,293
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
River Cruise Line
Trips in Egypt
3 Tours in Egypt
World Class Experience
This was my first cruise, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was delighted at all the off-boat activities available to us, and I was gratified to experience so much of the country’s culture from the locally hired guides. The meals, drinks, and service on the boat were exceptional—and delivered in an approachable and welcoming way. The experience was world class!
Avalon continues to provide excellent service
We experienced our second Avalon River Cruise this year (first one was in 2018) sailing from Basel to Amsterdam. During those 4 years, Avalon has developed a kiosk in the lobby where information about the day's itinerary and dining options are easily accessed. "Checking out and in" from excursions also happens at the kiosk. My husband wears braces on his ankles due to end stage osteoarthritis, and although he can walk short distances, without a wheelchair, he would not have been able to participate in excursions. His battery operated wheelchair is designed for travel, folds and is easily transported. We worked with Avalon to allow his wheelchair to be brought on board with the understanding that it would be stored in our cabin when not on excursions. He was able to navigate cobblestone streets, hills, and was able to reach places where he could not have gone without use of a wheelchair. We chose to extend our vacation to Paris and London as part of the package we booked with Avalon. Even with needing to use the wheelchair with those transfers via high speed train and the Eurostar, our transfers were completed with absolutely no issues. Thanks to Avalon, we were able to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary trip and my husband was able to experience all that Avalon offered to us. Our best vacation to date!!
This was our first riverboat cruise and…
This was our first riverboat cruise and we loved it! The staff was awesome, and the entire experience was great. The food was delicious, service was excellent. The excursion options were nice. Will definitely do another during warm weather.
Taste of Egypt
Trip Style: River cruise
Taste of Egypt with Jordan
Trip Style: River cruise
SITA World Tours
View Profile
Total Trips 1,370 Trips
Average Price
$ 393 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 4 – 10 days
Trip Prices $ 695 – $ 4,225
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Egypt
9 Tours in Egypt
Had a wonderful trip
I want to let you know that we had a wonderful trip and that your planning and arrangements were just perfect. We were VERY satisfied with your services and with everyone involved in our tour.
This adventure is a childhood dream come true
Amongst the packing, weighing, and pondering I want to extend my sincere appreciation to you for all of your support. This adventure is a childhood dream come true, the likes of which, is equally foreign to me. It is difficult to admit, but six months ago I didn't even know what cargo pants were. I know the "foreign" part has, at times, left me anxious, confused, and frustrated. And yet, your steady guidance has remained consistent and I am immensely grateful to you for that. You never made me feel as if my questions were irrelevant ...... OMGosh thank you so much for that Natalie. You are a credit to your profession and I am grateful you have guided me through this process.
I really loved the tours
South Africa is all by itself a magical place. When combined with people in the tourist industry who are competent, friendly and knowledgeable, a visit there can be very special. And ours was very special indeed...I really loved the tours that your company put together; they were really very well balanced.
Abu Dhabi Explorer (luxury)
Trip Style: Private guided tour
Abu Dhabi Explorer (deluxe)
Trip Style: Private guided tour
Egypt: Land Of Pharaohs (first Class)
Trip Style: Private guided tour
What Makes Them Stand Out?
With over 80 years of experience and tour guide specialists that provide excellent customer service, SITA World Tours is a well-developed tour operator for remote and beautiful destinations. SITA offers group travel in different shapes and sizes including tailor-made tours for small groups and those who may have specific requests.
Who Travels With Them?
While it depends on destinations, the demographic tends to be adults between 50-70 years old or honeymooners who are going on a private trip. SITA World Tours can accommodate trips with only two individuals though the majority of the tours consist of 15-30 persons. The price range varies anywhere between $500-$8000 per person, depending on trip style.
Where Do They Operate?
SITA World Tours has many destinations all over the world from Asia and the Middle East to Europe, Australia, South America and more. Travel style varies from luxury trains, women only trips, and cruise extensions.
Why Travel With Them?
SITA World Tours has destinations all over the world and a very flexible customized program. They pay close attention to detail, ensuring each individuals needs and requests are catered to, and offer a wide range of trip types and styles.
Commonly Searched Together:
Compare SITA World Tours with these other tour companies
SITA World Tours vs Peregrine
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Uniworld
#18 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 18 Trips
Average Price
$ 429 per day
Size Regional Expert
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
River Cruise Line
Trips in Egypt
2 Tours in Egypt
The staff is most efficient and kind.
The staff is most efficient and kind.
The service on the Tosca was OUTSTANDING.
The service on the Tosca was OUTSTANDING. The crew was very attentive, concerned always that we had what we needed and wanted. They could not be more helpful! It was very clear that their first priority was customer service. They take that concept to a new and the highest of standards. It was fantastic. Just as importantly, we got to know them, and they made us feel as if we were home. In particular, the dining staff made sure we always had food that we wanted, were concerned about allergies and offered substitutions if we ever just wanted a chicken breast with rice and vegetables or some steak and potatoes. We wanted for nothing, were blessed with everything. What a trip!
Personnel were all very polite and happy to serve.
Personnel were all very polite and happy to serve. Service was timely and professional. Most remembered your preferences and were prepared to assist.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, part of the giant Travel Corporation umbrella of tour companies and cruise lines, is a luxury, all-inclusive line offering itineraries on a total of 22 rivers in 29 countries worldwide.
What Makes Uniworld Stand Out?
Uniworld provides the pinnacle of luxury river cruising. They are known for their attention to detail, and extremely warm and attentive customer service. Traveling with Uniworld is to enter another world and experience the joy and comfort that comes with unpacking once, and really catering the journey to your pace.
Many excursions are available during the cruise, as well as top line on-board activities and dining.
Like other Travel Corporation brands, Uniworld contributes to the not-for-profit TreadRight Foundation, which works to promote sustainable tourism projects worldwide.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Uniworld?
Uniworld is perfect for those travelers who are looking to relax, only upack once, and can somewhat cater their experience once aboard the river cruise - enjoying as many or as few port excursions (extra fee) or simply exploring on your own before it’s time to leave port.
River cruising with Uniworld is a luxurious experience. Staff are attentive, everything is crisp and clean, and much attention to detail is paid to make sure your experience on board is enjoyable and every possible need is met.
It’s a “dress for dinner” kind of experience aboard Uniworld. Where you can enjoy fine wine, food, and appreciate a bit of a throwback feel. During the days many active travel opportunities can be found such as cycling and walking tours, or if you prefer you can dial it down to enjoy at your own pace. Travelers are often older, in the 50 plus range, many couples, and some friend groups.
Top Destinations?
Destinations include a number of European rivers as well as those in Russia, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, and India (India cruises begin in 2016, aboard the new Ganges II Explorer).
Uniworld Travel Style
Uniworld ships average a maximum of 130 passengers, and the staff-to-guest ratio is very high. The line is noted for its service and cuisine and has won numerous industry awards. All-inclusive pricing includes unlimited beverages aboard, shore excursions and gratuities, with just a few exceptions.
Why Choose a Cruise with Uniworld?
If you’re looking for a top of the line luxury travel experience on some of the world’s most picturesque rivers, then Uniworld is a fantastic option.
These trips are best suited for active older travelers. There are many excursions available and the amenities on board, service, and culture all create an unforgettable luxury river cruise experience.
Tweets by UniworldCruises
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Preferred
Peregrine Adventures
#32 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 13 Trips
Average Price
$ 396 per day
Size Global Operator
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Egypt
11 Tours in Egypt
Expect I'm not the only one
they are 'fair weather friends'
I did not receive so much as an email advising of changes in the cancellation policy, discovered when I contacted them to cancel.
I now receive automated emails/msgs as I attempt to work through this.
The email states I may contact them on 31 July to discuss the matter!....4 months away.
I'm absolutely stunned by how shoddy this outfit is....who knew?!
Out of pocket $4000.
Expect I'm not the only one.
Highly Recommended
Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
Highly Recommended
Currently experiencing “Cruising the Thai Islands” with Peregrine and I am loving everything! The local knowledge and immersive experiences are second to none and our guides are extraordinary
With Peregrine Adventures, ‘anywhere is possible.’ Based in Australia, Peregrine has led small-group, ‘soft’ adventure-style trips worldwide for over 30 years. It was one of the first operators to employ local leaders, a practice that is now widespread in guided travel.
What Makes Them Stand Out?
While considering itself an adventure travel company, Peregrine promises to “smooth down the bumps and rough edges.” In short, it’s more about soft adventure with added comforts than roughing it. Group sizes are kept small, with no more than 16 travelers per trip. Its philosophy is that while “seeing the famous sites is a must, it’s those memories of wandering through a little village or sharing dinner with a local family that leave a lasting impression.” The small-group aspect allows for more time to absorb the nature of the places visited, and to make a minimal environmental impact on them as well.
Who Travels With Them?
While Peregrine is a global company, many of its travelers originate from Australia and New Zealand. However, their groups can be geographically diverse, with most travelers 50+ years of age.
Where Do They Operate? Peregrine offers a wide variety of exciting global destinations, with 200 trips across 80 countries -- spanning from Egypt to Turkey to Canada trips! The company is perhaps best known for its Himalayan trekking excursions to far-flung destinations including Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It was a pioneer in high-altitude trekking and these trips remain among their most popular today.
How Does it Work?
Most travel is by private, air-conditioned minibus, but you might find yourself on a houseboat in Kerala, India, a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, or a mountain lift on the best Switzerland tour you've ever experienced. Lodging and dining is at smaller, locally run hotels and restaurants. You might also dine with locals from time to time, and stay with local families or at campsites as well.
Why Travel With Them?
Peregrine is a good choice if you’re looking for a bit of a softer landing with respect to transportation and accommodations but still crave an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. If you’re looking for more individual travel, Peregrine will craft independent journeys, arrange self-guided walking and cycling tours, or arrange private group and tailor-made trips. It’s your choice. Peregrine also helps support various community and conservation projects via its ties with the Intrepid Foundation.
Tweets by PeregrineSpirit
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Gate 1 Travel
#40 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 779 Trips
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 7 – 17 days
Trip Prices $ 1,069 – $ 5,549
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Egypt
36 Tours in Egypt
I have taken several trips with them in…
I have taken several trips with them in the past but they are awful now. Have tried several times to use a credit from a cancellation during Covid but their customer service managers put you on never-ending hold and then either book the wrong flights or come back to tell you that they can’t do it. Originally told I could book by December 31, 2023 in order to use credit and now told I have to finish vacation by then. They are highly unreliable and terrible to use now.
Minimal issues and great prices!
I've taken one group tour and five independent trips thru Gate 1. Never had a problem. But i've heard part of my luck has to do with getting the name of the agent and,get their extension - so you're always dealing with the same person.And fyi - can't beat their prices!
Dramatisch slecht
Dramatisch slecht! Niet bereikbaar (zowel telefonisch en via de mail) en de verzekeraar waarmee ze werken (Europe Assistance) ook niet. Verzekeraar lijkt niet te bestaan en de kosten die ik terug zou moeten krijgen heb ik nooit gekregen. Echt schandalig!
15 Day Classic Egypt with Hurghada & 7 Day Nile Cruise
Trip Style: Group tour
14 Day Crown of Egypt with 3 Day Lake Nasser Cruise & 3 Day First Class Nile Cruise
Trip Style: Group tour
13 Day Classic Egypt with 7 Day Nile Cruise
Trip Style: Group tour
Founded in 1981 with three employees and based in suburban Philadelphia, Gate 1 now employs more than 200 people worldwide with offices in 20 countries, ranging from Hungary to Cambodia, Argentina to Israel.
What Makes Gate 1 Stand Out?
Escorted tours & river cruises
Good value
High quality guides
Gate 1 offers a variety of tour packages and river cruises around the world, promising to provide exceptional value for the price. They focus on North American travelers who seek “high quality, yet affordable” guided trips, with accommodations ranging from superior tourist to moderate deluxe class.
They have a lot of different choices when it comes to destinations, durations, and inclusions. Most tours have additional offerings for meals, activities, and excursions available for additional fees.
Traveler reviews for Gate 1 oscillate between 5 star and 1 star experiences. Those that have had an excellent time cite the tour pacing, guides, and extensive sightseeing opportunities as positives.
Those for whom these same factors contributed to a negative experience may have had higher expectations than is available or offered for the competitive budget prices that Gate 1 is known for.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Gate 1?
All ages
Low to mid budget travelers
Those open to simple accommodation and meal plans
Gate 1 is the perfect travel choice for families, couples, and friend groups seeking a cost efficient journey. As Gate 1 is a strictly budget minded brand, it’s important to be fully aware of the trade-off when you choose to travel with them.
You will see a lot, and be out and about visiting several sites - however keeping costs low is one of their main priorities. This means hotels will be basic, meals won’t be 5 star, and your coach will have fewer amenities. In addition tours with Gate 1 feature several optional add ons and sightseeing tours, not included in the base price. Average tour price is around $2,000, often less.
If you’re flexible, open minded, and are interested in maximizing your sightseeing above all else, Gate 1 could be for you. Knowing what to expect is key for enjoying the trip to the fullest.
Top Destinations
Gate 1 trips cover much of the world, including destinations in North, Central, and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Itineraries focus on the top sights, historical attractions, and national parks.
Gate 1 Travel Style
In a nutshell, the Gate 1 travel style is “see a lot for a little”. Hotels and accommodations are usually 3 star hotels. Expect basic comforts, with fewer amenities available. However if you’re the kind of traveler for whom a bed and some coffee in the morning is a fine trade-off for busy days outside and tons of sightseeing, the trade-off will be worth it.
You will be met on the ground with a dedicated tour leader, available to assist throughout your travel experience.
Escorted group bus tours are a big part of their business - between 24-42 people. These coaches are again, more utility focused than amenity focused, but you will be comfortable. And in general bus tours take frequent stops to allow for stretching legs and using of facilities.
Gate 1 also offers small group tours (with a maximum of 22 people), river cruises on two continents, independent city stays and fly and drive packages, rail packages, customized vacations, and combination bus/cruise tours -- something for almost everyone interested in a budget vacation.
Why Choose a Tour With Gate 1?
For the budget traveler, Gate 1 is a fantastic choice. They offer several types of trip package to choose from, including rail, river cruise, and small group tours, at competitive rates. Their escorted tours are extremely popular, and customers repeat trips with them regularly.
While Gate 1 is the primary brand, and they are all about giving a positive and packed international travel experience on a budget, other brands associated with Gate 1 are more premium focused. These include the Signature collection, offering luxury tour options and smaller groups.
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Tauck
View Profile
Total Trips 756 Trips
Average Price
$ 578 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 10 – 13 days
Trip Prices $ 6,990 – $ 13,390
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Egypt
14 Tours in Egypt
Skip this cruise - not worth it
My husband and I went on the Treasures of the Mediterranean Isles Trip jn October 2022. This was our third Tauck cruise with Ponnant but our first post covid and the level of food and serive on Ponnant ships has dropped alot. The food was, at best, cafeteria food at a bad high school. My husband ate salad and cheese and crackers
For dinner every night because the entrees were terrible. You could be the first person at breakfast and everything on the buffet was cold, nothing was hot. there warming trays had tea light candles underneath them.
Wine served at dinner was low quality whicj says something since it was French wine. Tours were poorly
Planned, guides were ok at best. There is no time to shop or eat on land 9 times out 10. We were in Sicily but never got a chance to eat Sicilian food. So disappointed in this ver expensive cruise. The land portions in Malta and Marseiile were better but the tours in Malta were short, limited and subpar. This was our 8th Tauck trip and we have since cancelled our next three. We are not paying Tauck prices for mediocre experiences.
Still Spellbound by the Grandeur of Alaska
Focused on the amazing wildness of Alaska without worrying about the mundane details. Expert, low-key tour director made everything look easy. Excursions enhanced appreciation for the history, terrain, wildlife, peoples, boom and bust cycles that make Alaska so unique. Clear view of Denali, great weather, days 'at sea' with binoculars in hand!
Most Memorable Moment:
Flightseeing, Tundra Wilderness tour (clear Denali, rare wolf sighting and grizzlies in distance), crossing Prince William Sound (sea-otters, orcas, stellar sea-lions, and more), Hubbard Glacier calving, Glacier Bay entire day, Whale Watching out of Juneau, and bald eagles everywhere!
Tauck/Aon terrible travel insurance
Tauck partners with Aon for travel insurance. We bought this insurance through Tauck specifically to cover us in case of a positive for test for Covid and could not go on the cruise. Three days before the trip, one of us tested positive with very mild symptoms. We contacted Tauck and they agreed to refund 1/2 of the tour cost and the insurance would pay for the other half. When we called the insurance they said they required a PCF test. The test was taken and came back positive. Two months later they denied the claim because we didn’t go to a doctor. That was not necessary or practical. We had proof of Covid. Tauck is not willing to help. This was the insurance they recommended and sold to customers. We have now read many reviews of terrible service from Aon. Why is Tauck a partner to this company and not willing to help their clients? BEWARE. Terrible customer service.
Egypt: Jewels of the Nile 2023
Trip Style: Small group tour
Jordan & Egypt: Petra to the Pyramids, Small Groups 2023
Trip Style: Small group tour
Jordan & Egypt: Petra to the Pyramids 2023
Trip Style: Small group tour
Founded in 1925 by Arthur Tauck, the company has blossomed from a New England motor coach tour agency to offering trips throughout the world -- by land (including rail), sea, and sometimes by air (private air charters, helicopters). But it remains a Tauck family-run business, now in its fourth generation.
Quick Facts
Founded in 1925
Luxury travel with a friendly touch
Small groups, large groups, river cruises
Solo friendly
Average tour price is around $6,000 p/p
Unique partnerships: BBC Earth, offering science themed nature tours, Ken Burns journeys in the US
What Makes Tauck Stand Out
Long legacy
Classic destinations
Several types of itinerary, from cruises to family trips
All inclusive pricing
Themed trips
“No grouches or pessimists” was the plea in a 1920s newspaper ad for a small tour group. From that small automobile taking curious, adventurous New Yorkers along dusty roads through beautiful New England, Tauck has come a long way, now offering guided tours throughout the world.
They look upon their legacy with immense pride, as well they should. Arthur Tauck was an immigrant who pulled himself up by bootstraps and engenuity, and his name represents a supreme, classic and classy tour experience.
Tauck is a long-established high-quality tour operator with a strong reputation as one of the top companies offering upper-mid-range to luxury group travel and river cruises for the 50+ crowd. While its staple has been European and North American land tours, Tauck has been increasingly expanding into special family trips, exotic locations, and recent award-winning European river cruising.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Tauck?
Families
50+
River cruisers
History buffs
Pricing is virtually all-inclusive -- no additional options that can run up costs are offered during the trips, yet this is not a place for the true budget traveler. Though they offer several different types of tours, from family vacations to river cruising, attracting and serving a diverse customer group, the legacy of tradition and comfortability appeals largely to older and middle aged travelers.
Solo travelers are very welcome on Tauck trips, and pay a low single supplement. Numerous specifically solo friendly tours are offered. You’ll meet romantic singles, or simply independent minded travelers, of all ages.
Large family or friend groups could find a great fit at Tauck. Particularly because if your group is 11 people, the 11th travels for free! Because of Tauck’s impressively wide reaching themes and styles for families, having several different ages will be easier to entertain than they might be with other companies.
They even have dedicated “family river cruises”. So if you’re considering a multi-gen family reunion or have a large group of friends with various ages, Tauck could be a good choice.
Top Destinations
Tauck destinations include all seven continents -- so whether you're trying to plan an Iceland vacation or looking to take a trip to Canada, consider Tauck!
Special themes may include food and wine, North American national parks, fall foliage, solo travel, African safaris, “Culturious” travel (for culturally curious baby boomers), “Bridges” (for families), and “Events,” which are considered once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences.
These may feature a trip to the Kentucky Derby or journeys based around themes of Ken Burns films, with a chance to meet Burns himself.
Tauck Travel Style
Tauck’s travel style is all about seeing destinations in comfort, yet with a strong sense of adventure and desire to see different sides of the destination - from local life to culturally immersive activities.
Land tours are where they began, and they offer hundreds of different tours of various lengths around the world. Typically accommodations are in comfortable 3, 4, and occasionally 5 star hotels.
Tauck has an award winning river cruise line, covering a variety of European rivers. They strive to create an intimate setting, where customer service is not compromised. Small ship cruises use 40- to 264-passenger-size yachts and expeditionary vessels that can visit small islands and other locations that big ships cannot. The staff is known for its attentiveness and individualized service.
Among Tauck’s unique partnerships is a special connection with the BBC Earth, through which they offer what they call “Earth Journeys”. These explore the natural world with emphasis on being outdoors learning the fascinating earth science behind stunning nature and wildlife.
Tauck is a luxury minded brand, and their prices do tend to sit in the upper budget range. Think an average price between $5,000 and $7,000 per person. That said, they strive to reflect a friendliness and openness, and steer away from any kind of “stuffy” feeling. Their trips are comprehensive and full of enriching cultural activities, while also appreciating the value behind enjoying a cocktail hour before heading into dinner.
Why Choose a Tour or River Cruise With Tauck?
Tauck has an impressive array of travel styles and tours, suitable to numerous types of travelers. They are especially popular with large family groups and corporate groups, as well as very friendly to solo / single travelers.
A renowned, award winning, and well established company, they seamlessly marry innovation with legacy - sticking to their roots while continuing to create unique offerings. Some of its biggest growth has come on water, where Tauck operates a fleet of seven European river boats and a number of small ship cruises. Their customer service, attentive and knowledgeable guides are definitely a key component to their popularity.
Tauck offers something for just about everyone.
Covid-19 Updates
Tauck has an internal "Global Response Team" that is poised and ready for responding to the unexpected, from extreme weather events to outbreaks.
They have implemented stringent safety requirements for their trips going forward, training guides on enhanced protocols and health screening practices. Guests will be required to wear face coverings on all outings.
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Preferred
Great Value Vacations
View Profile
Total Trips 734 Trips
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 8 – 12 days
Trip Prices $ 3,598 – $ 4,792
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Egypt
7 Tours in Egypt
"Travel Vouchers" caused Missed Train
When we were ready to take our first train from Madrid to Seville, I didn't know how to turn what I thought were the vouchers into tickets. We missed the train and had to buy our own tickets on a train that left 3 hours later.
The vouchers in my email read only: travel vouchers. I ignored it because I thought I had already printed my travel vouchers. I sadly learned that what I had printed were not my travel vouchers. It would have been helpful to have had the email read "train ticket vouchers". That was a costly mistake. This was our second time traveling with Great Value Vacations.
Greece: Athens, Paros, & Santorini
Wow! Everything was handled beautifully! Our transfers, hotels, and excursions were organized and communicated very well to us. I loved how nice and helpful our first transfer and pick up person was. He (Thanasis) explained the itinerary and procedures very well and even gave us recommendations for things to do in the areas we will be. We had a few changes due to ferry and transportation strikes but the travel companies all communicated with us the next steps and options in a very timely manner. I appreciate the feeling of safety and security that this trip provided. I will definitely be booking another trip with GVV! Thank you for an amazing experience.
Poor customer service, distant hotels
Well, the only good thing about this vacation was that we actually made it to Italy and had the best time creating me memories.
However, dealing with GVV was nothing short of a nightmare. Though the purchase of the voucher and booking went smoothly, it all went south the night before departure, at flight checkin.
Originally, we had booked from Chicago, but didn’t realize once flights were confirmed that we’d have to land in JFK anyway, so six weeks before the flight, we called and upgraded departure city from ORD to JFK, and coordinated our personal flights to JFK out of MSP.
At checkin, both the Italy airlines and Delta page just kept cycling us back and forth between the two landing pages and we couldn’t check in. After calling Great Value, Lexi inflorescence us that there was a “synching issue” and we were still slated to fly out of Chicago. As you can imagine, this caused us panic, as we were flying out to JFK in 12 hours to make the flight to Rome. Lexi assured me she was working on it between their flying partners but didn’t want me to wait on hold and would call me back. Well, two hours passed and we’re getting ready for bed for a 3am airport departure, and no one has called back. We phoned Delta, the carrier for the Chicago flight and said they would cancel the entire flight (all the way to Rome,) if we weren’t on the Chicago flight.
With more increasing angst, we phoned back, and was told by Justine that it “should” work out and just to go to JFK, but that she had to go, because it was her bedtime and they were closing - and wouldn’t open until 12:30 the following day, which is well after we would have missed our flight to Rome. Just horrible customer service and no reassurance.
Fortunately, we made it to Italy, but certainly not without some frustration and panic. Our tour started in Venice, where our hotel was nice enough, but about a ten minute train ride to Venice Grand Canal area. No biggie, but did kind of suck when you were enjoying the evening but had to wait for a train that only came once an hour towards the end of the night; if you were enjoying dinner you either had to leave early or wait what could be an hour for the next train.
Florence was next and the train was about 15 minutes from city center. Again, not a huge deal but added fees and time to days where I’ve stayed in city proper areas.
Rome was next and we learned the hotel was an HOUR away by train and we simply decided not to use that hotel and get an Airbnb.
If you’re looking for an Italian vacation, booked with Gate 1 Travel - they book you in hotels in the main areas and it’s even easier to get around and retire at the end of the day.
“It should work out” is not a company I want to rely on in the future. Also, still waiting for my refund of the Florence walking tour that was cancelled.
Greece & Egypt: Adventure through Early Civilization
Trip Style: Small ship cruise
Dubai & Egypt with Nile River Cruise
Trip Style: Small ship cruise
Greece & Egypt: Adventure through Early Civilization
Trip Style: Small ship cruise
Great Value Vacations provides pre-packaged, competitively priced vacation itineraries suitable to all traveler types. They are owned by DH Enterprise and Associates, Inc.
What Makes Great Value Vacations Stand Out?
Professionally planned itineraries
Flight & car rental available
Local insights
Budget minded
Unlike traditional guided tours, Great Value Vacations provides professionally planned packages for independent travelers booking a vacation. Everything from flights to car rental is available through the Great Value Vacations booking process.
Itineraries are designed by locals, so you can get a true sense of local authentic living while on your vacation.
Their packages are competitively priced, and designed by an extensive network of travel experts. You can choose from among several types of trip and their reviews speak for themselves in customer satisfaction.
Accommodations and activities are hand selected by their local experts or the “feet on the street” as they call it. They choose only the highest quality places to send you and your travel companions.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Great Value Vacations?
Independent planners
Budget travelers
All ages
Travelers who want a fully vetted itinerary and the peace of mind that comes with having all components taken care of will love the experience of a Great Value Vacations package. Because of the great variety they have available, families, older travelers, and young professionals can all find something suitable on Great Value Vacations.
It’s important to note that these trips are not a traditional group tour or private tour, with a guide. If you are looking for a different kind of packaged pre-set itinerary with a fellow group of travelers, we recommend checking out a few different group tour companies first.
These packages are great for independent minded travelers who still like the idea of a professionally planned itinerary, with unique experiences and activities, but plenty of free time. Great Value Vacations is also great for having all services in one place - including visa information, flight booking, hotel booking, and car rental.
Great Value Vacations is also a great options for budget travelers. They partner with various deals sites like Groupon to provide ongoing deals and specials (although the voucher system might be a bit complicated).
Top Destinations
Great Value Vacations operates tours in Africa, Asia, Europe, and The Caribbean. Travel styles include everything from all inclusive resort experiences, to quaint Bed & Breakfasts, to fully escorted tours, to rail journeys.
Great Value Vacations Ireland trips are quite popular, particularly now as Ireland has remained open to travelers during the Coronavirus pandemic. You can find several different affordable independent and self drive Ireland packages through Great Value Vacations.
Similarly, many American travelers are considering domestic travel for the next vacation. Great Value Vacations United States trips are a great choice for keeping the budget low and finding fun unique ways to explore your own backyard.
Great Value Vacations Travel Style
Adventurous
Local culture
Active
Flexible
Driving
The Great Value Vacations travel style is about convenience coupled with confidence - for an unforgettable adventure. Most of their packages involve driving, and their rental car availability is comprehensive as well as a big part of the value when using a Great Value Vacations package.
Itineraries include detailed directions, all your hotel information, and other important documents are available within 30 days of your booking. You are required to print all necessary documents provided to you via their Traveler Portal.
Most packages include a few guided day tours and several activities ranging from cultural to active.
There are several vacation types and themes to choose from that are available through Great Value Vacations. These include everything from Luxury to Self Drive Vacations (which is one of their most popular).
Why Choose a Tour with Great Value Vacations?
For the ease of booking a package all in one place, Great Value Vacations is a top choice. Their packages have the propensity to be a bit standard, however given that they are created by local experts - all itineraries bring a little something special to the itinerary. You’ll definitely see the important sites, as well as get some locally immersive hidden gems.
They bring all facets of planning travel into one place, at a competitive price, taking care of all the factors that can make planning travel stressful. They have an easy to use online booking system, eliminating the need for you to take any extra steps.
It's important to note that some travelers may find the Great Value Vacations booking model a bit convaluted. They are very much geared toward budget travelers which means you can may see them listed on sites like Groupon or other deals aggregators.
Great Value Vacations Covid-19 Travel Update
In response to the uncertainty surrounding Covid-19, Great Value Vacations is currently postponing all bookings, based on the travel date, current news, and country travel policies.
This precaution is in place at least until November 2020 and will likely be extended beyond that. At this time any current bookings with Great Value Vacations remain non-refundable.
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Cosmos
View Profile
Total Trips 461 Trips
Average Price
$ 175 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 14 – 14 days
Trip Prices $ 2,689 – $ 2,689
Service Level Budget
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Egypt
1 Tours in Egypt
Excellent Experience and Excellent Guide
I would highly recommend this company and some trips to Scandinavia and Baltic. The countries are amazing, the service and our guide Ausra Paukste was really the best ever. If you wish to visit this region consider Cosmos company.
Awesome & The Best!
We had a most wonderful trip! Our tour guide & driver were excellent! Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about France, & told us a little history, about every town we visited! Hotels great!
Terrible
Expectations were fairly high and they were still exceeded. We considered this the best trip we have ever taken and my wife and I have zero complaints.
Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains
Trip Style: Group tour
Cosmos promises to “turn your travel dreams into reality” by offering affordable tours in several parts of the world. Part of the Globus group of travel brands, Cosmos has been running escorted tours for five decades since the 1960s. It touts its clout with hotels and other travel providers as a way of keeping down costs, with savings passed on to their customers. Most expenses are included in the tours, though you may be on your own for some meals and optional excursions.
Cosmos started out offering value-priced European coach tours for budget-minded travelers, and now has added North American, South American, and some Middle East and North African destinations as well. Religious-themed tours of southern Europe and Israel as well as holiday season tours are all part of the mix.
The company emphasizes that when you tour Europe, for example, you’ll stay like Europeans do, eat like Europeans do, and “share the European view of Europe.” That generally means comfortable but not luxury hotels, well-chosen neighborhood restaurants, varied means of transportation, and guided sightseeing of all the “must-see” sites, with extended stays in key cities. Cosmos also offers plenty of free time to explore on your own, a way of personalizing your group tour a bit.
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Premier
Collette
#21 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 451 Trips
Average Price
$ 289 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 12 – 14 days
Trip Prices $ 2,599 – $ 3,999
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Egypt
17 Tours in Egypt
It was a wonderful trip and experience!
It was a wonderful trip and experience! We are still sorting all the pictures and memories about it, and some of them I would like to share with you - read my diary about this trip!
My Diary about our trip to South Dakota
shorturl.at/efoX1
is so unprecedented
During this coronavirus we had a trip to Italy my mom is 89 and we unfortunately didn’t take out the insurance and they have said they can only give us only 30% on the land and zero on air fare back and I just think it’s poor business in a situation that is so unprecedented
we had an absolute wonderful time
My wife & I just returned from your National Parks tour and we had an absolute wonderful time. Great itinerary, tour director (Merrin) and driver (John). First class!
Journey Through Egypt and Jordan - 2022
Trip Style: Group tour
Treasures of Egypt - 2022
Trip Style: Group tour
Treasures of Egypt - 2022
Trip Style: Group tour
With a history that goes back to 1918, their experience speaks for itself. They provide comprehensive, well-managed guided tours for travelers seeking an exploratory, comfortable travel experience.
Collette - Quick Facts
Founded in 1918
Group size: It varies. Collette offers private and customizable tours, as well as small groups of between 14-24 guests
Typical age range: 45+
Average tour price: $2,996
Accommodation style: 4 star and above hotels and unique locations
Top regions: USA & Canada, Europe & UK
Commonly compared with Tauck and Trafalgar
What Makes Collette Tours Stand Out?
Flexibility & personalization
Expert tour managers
Easy booking process
Private & Customizable tours
Balances iconic must-sees with immersive cultural experiences
A long history in guided tourism means Collette knows every inch of guided travel. Take care of all the details like it’s second nature, and even though it's old hat every traveler is new and they dig into that. Collette recognizes that no two traveler is the same and approach each planning experience from a perspective of flexibility and personalization.
Their goal is to ease the hardship of planning and organizing for the traveler so you can fully enjoy the experience without worry or stress. At Collette, they know guided travel and have been successfully leading tours around the world to a growing, devoted customer base for nearly 100 years.
Collette tours are about letting you, the traveler, experience unbelievable, classic, and unique moments around the world.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Collette?
Travelers aged 45+
Moderately active travelers
Upper budget range
Do you love the ease of mind that comes with having every detail taken care of when you travel? Details that allow you to relax and enjoy the special little moments of discovering the world; learning about new cultures, awe inspiring wildlife encounters, and leisurely meals highlighting local cuisine? Then you are ideally suited to Collette tours.
The Collette traveler is typically older, in the 50+ range. Travelers who enjoy the finer things, value a premium to luxury style of accommodation and transportation, yet have an adventurous spirit will love traveling with Collette.
Recent retirees and active seniors who are game for anything are the kind of traveler who relish a tour with Collette - check out this group in Costa Rica - taking part in Costa Rica's famous ziplines!
If you don't want to be encouraged to jump in and push your comfort zone a bit, you may find yourself out of step on a majority of Collette tours. They have several offerings though, so don't let that discourage you.
Collette is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a comprehensive guided tour, with a lot of activity, and local experiences. These tours can involve extensive walking, sometimes over uneven surfaces, so a certain basic level of physical fitness is required.
Tours with Collette are classified by 5 basic physical levels, to help you find one best suited to you:
Level 1 - Mostly flat services and minimal walking. You should be comfortabe with climbing a few stairs, plus getting in and out of the coach
Level 2 - Average physical ability is required such as long stairs and walks of a few hours. Some walks may be over uneven ground.
Level 3 - Slightly longer distances and more frequent walks can be expected. Expect stairs and some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones or nature trails.
Level 4 - Expect to be on your feet longer, including periods of standing and more extensive walking periods. These tours may also feature nighttime activities, so you'll be active for a longer period of time.
Level 5 - Very active travel. Expect adventure experiences and activities, early mornings and late nights. You can also expect to experience the elements so be ready for rain, wind, dust, what have you.
Free days are included in most Collette tours, giving travelers time to relax, take walks on the beach, or maybe do some shopping.
If you’re the kind of traveler for whom the a glass of champagne out in the blazing sun of the Australian outback, gazing at Uluru, sounds idyllic - then Collette would be perfect for you.
Top Destinations
Collette tours travel all around the world, to all 7 continents including Antarctica. They are well known for Central and South America, Australia, and Africa. They also offer an impressive variety of North America tours including several in the United States and Canada.
Travel styles include everything from river cruises to family tours to faith based tours.
Collette Travel Style
Collette promises the “trip of a lifetime” through exclusive outings, luxury touches, and appreciating the moments of anticipation before the world reveals itself. Their travel style is about discovering new cultures, embracing the explorer within -- in time for a cocktail at the end of the day.
They have 6 broad classifications for travel style: Classic, Explorations, Spotlights, River Cruise, Faith, and Impact Travel:
1. Classic Collette Tours - This is what they call their Flagship collection, group tours that make the postcard come to life. Visit all the must see sites, enjoy cultural experiences, all with a professional and knowledgeable guide, there to help make your travel as seamless as possible. Groups are on the larger side
2. Explorations - These tours are about going deeper, meeting locals, and getting off the beaten path. “Authenticity” is a big word for Collette Explorations. You’ll experience the destination in a smaller group, an average of 18 people, allowing for access to more local experiences not available to larger groups. Classic sites will also be included in your itinerary, but the focus is mostly on unique experiences.
3. Spotlights - Have a shorter amount of time and don’t want to miss anything? Collette Spotlight tours are designed to maximize your city stay or short getaway experience. These are primarily walking tours, packed with sightseeing, historical and cultural information, but with some downtime as well. Typically these tours are between 5-9 days.
4. River Cruise - A very popular mode of travel, particularly for 50+ travelers, river cruising is ideal for those seeking a leisurely vacation, unpacking only once, enjoying gliding by beautiful sites and participating in various guided shore excursions. Collette river cruises go around the world, including China, Egypt, and Europe.
5. Faith - For those travelers interested in visiting religious sites, Collette has a group of tours dedicated to faith based travel. Visit world famous icons and learn their ancient histories.
Collette Faith tours visit everything from grand churches to the humble beginnings of the three major world religions in the Holy Land. Tours are history based with an emphasis on finding deeper spiritual significance and meaning. They also have trips to the Oberammergau Passion Play.
6. Impact Travel - Being a responsible traveler is an important component on all Collette tours, however if you’re seeking to do more to give back, their Impact Tours are a great way to do so. Sightsee with a purpose as you assist with local initiatives, volunteering among the community, helping in classrooms, and protecting local wildlife.
Why Choose a Tour with Collette?
Flexibility in planning
Extensions available pre or post tour date
Private airport transfer
Expert planners
If you are looking for an entertaining, fully escorted, active tour to explore new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences, Collette could be for you. They provide a dedicated guide, and handle all the details throughout the tour.
Free time is available on some days, but for the most part expect fairly full itineraries and a good amount of walking on their group tours. Some optional excursions are offered during the tour, so you can tailor your experience to a certain extent.
This is a great opportunity for meeting fellow travelers in a similar age range. Collette tours are open to everyone, but the majority of people on your tour will be older - in the 50+ range. Collette tours are ideal for travelers who want to have fun, enjoy the outdoors, and are open to new experiences.
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Preferred
National Geographic Expeditions
View Profile
Total Trips 63 Trips
Average Price
$ 714 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 11 – 11 days
Trip Prices $ 5,495 – $ 6,995
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Mixed Land & Cruise
Trips in Egypt
2 Tours in Egypt
TOO MUCH TOO FAST
Firstly, it was my understanding, and confirmed in a phone conversation with the company’s representative prior to our departure, that the schedule of events would go at our pace. We found this to not be the case. For example; we arrived in Cairo on October 25th, from Tel Aviv, Israel, later in the night than scheduled due to an airline delay. We were met at the airport by your representative and taken to a hotel 45 minutes from the airport. We checked in shortly after midnight. The representative said that we would “meet at 4:00” to be picked up to fly to Luxor. I thought he meant 4:00 PM, but no, it was 4:00 AM!!! We had less than 3 hours sleep before we were whisked off to our next destination. (By the way, the representative spent those few hours waiting in the hotel lobby; he didn’t even get a night’s rest.)
We arrived in Luxor, were taken to the hotel, deposited our luggage (the room wasn’t ready), had breakfast, and then met our tour guide at 10:00 AM for our first tour. We were exhausted, but mustered our energy for the occasion.
Is there a good reason why Cairo wasn’t the first city on our tour? In retrospect, it should have been for many reasons, not the least of which was the logistics described above.
All right, so now we’re in Luxor, and by afternoon we’re ensconced in a luxurious hotel with a magnificent view of the Nile River. There’s a swimming pool that we’re looking forward to relaxing by the next day during some much needed down time during the free time described in the itinerary; exactly what we expected from National Geographic. But instead, that evening we were told by our guide that we needed to have our luggage ready to check out of the hotel the next morning to relocate to the Nile River ship Minerva (coincidentally, owned by the same company as the hotel). We obliged, and in the morning we were taken on a tour with the luggage in the car, and then brought to the ship in the early afternoon. Our four suitcases were put in a room that was barely large enough to contain the bed, but the view of the river from our room was good enough to overlook this inconvenience, at least for the moment. I looked forward to resting in our cabin in the afternoon because I was exhausted. In fact, I was so tired that I have little recollection of that morning’s tour until I look at the photos to affirm that I was actually where the itinerary said I would be.
We went to lunch in the ship’s dining room and returned to our cabin to find that our view of the Nile was obliterated by a ship that had tied up alongside our own. This is now our view (see photo) and the blackout drapes that were drawn to hide it made the small cabin a crowded, dark dungeon.
Furthermore, that ship’s bunker oil fumes were now in the air conditioning system of our ship and flowing freely into our cabin making me nauseous and giving me a headache. I complained but there was nothing to do about it.
And if this wasn’t bad enough, the sound of the neighboring ship that accompanied the smell was intolerable.
Other issues I had with our cabin on the ship included;
- The bypass closet door wouldn’t stay shut
- There was a leak under the bathroom sink
- The carpet in the area near the bathroom was wet
- The toilet seat lid came off repeatedly
- Wifi on board the ship was only in the main lobby area, and was poor at best
I talked to the ship’s desk clerk, and he assured me that things would be taken care of shortly. They never were.
This doesn’t take into consideration that the buffet style food served on board was repetitive if you didn’t take the offered main course, which was usually meat (I don’t eat meat).
Oh, and I didn’t yet mention that our ship wouldn’t be leaving its mooring until the next day! We had traded a luxurious hotel for this!
With that said, it begs the question of why we were taken out of a luxurious hotel 24 hours in advance of the ship sailing away from Luxor? No pool to sit by, no view of the sunset over the banks of the Nile, no quiet room in which to sleep, and no dinner of delicious food. Certainly not what we expected from a Nat Geo Private Tour for which we had paid a premium price!
Unrelated to these issues, NatGeo’s survey asked if we felt that our health was well-protected. “No” is the short answer. A fuller reply is that we both got Covid on this trip; my husband first, then inevitably, myself three days later. We had avoided catching it for more than 2.6 years, and now we had it. I realize that one takes risks when going out in the world, and I certainly don’t blame NatGeo for our getting sick. But their people weren’t wearing masks until I asked them to, mostly to protect themselves from us. One agent who met us at the airport when we arrived back in Cairo from Aswan, now openly sick with Covid, disappeared for 10 minutes to purchase a mask when I told him in no uncertain terms that he needed to wear one around us.
Overall, NatGeo profited from our illness as we were too unwell to utilize the dining allowance at the Cairo Ritz Carlton or to go to out for most meals offered with our guide. The one restaurant I was taken to for dinner without my husband was a touristy place with fake grapes leaves hanging from fake arbors. When a 35 person tour group trouped in past us it told me all I needed to know. My bowl of pasta with a tomato sauce not much thicker than tomato juice certainly couldn’t have cost more than $10, if that much. Then, the next day I was too sick to go out at all, my husband, who was feeling better by then, went out alone with the tour guide for the day, but it’s my understanding that they skipped all meals.
All in all, there were many aspects of the trip that were memorable for all the right reasons, but also memorable for the above mentioned wrong reasons. For us to have paid as much as we did begs the question, “Was it worth the expense for this private tour experience?” As seasoned world travelers, I’m hard pressed to reply in the affirmative.
Highly recommend! It was a trip of a lifetime!
We had not had the pleasure of traveling with National Geographic and was not sure what to expect. The trip went beyond what we could have possibly imagined! The staff were attentive and the guides were knowledgeable. There was not a time that we felt unsafe or that our needs were not being met. The trip was very fast paced which allowed us to experience each destination. Their timing was perfect with scheduled excursions and meals. We took the trip in October 2019 and then COVID entered our world and brought our trips to a stand still. I am now planning some trips for this year with hopes of a healthier world to travel!
Cancel my trip but no refund
This company canceled my trip due to COVID but failed to refund all money so I am out $1500 for Lindblad portion, and will never travel with NatGeo again. They have lost my trust as a company that puts travelers best interests first.
Egypt: Ancient Wonders of the Legendary Nile
Trip Style: Private guided tour
Egypt Private Expedition
Trip Style: Private guided tour
In 1999, National Geographic launched their own tour company component: National Geographic Expeditions. Since then they have expanded to offer trips on all 7 continents in over 60 destinations. Recently they partnered with G Adventures to provide even more variety to their devoted customers.
What Makes National Geographic Expeditions Stand Out?
Multiple modes of travel
Expert guides and photographers
After hours and special access to sites
With National Geographic, you can travel by small, expedition-style ships; classic train journeys; land tours; active adventures; photo tours; family-oriented trips; or private, independent expeditions based on your desires and budget.
Wherever you go with National Geographic, which has been in the tour business for 15 years, you can expect doors to open: entry to research sites, archaeological digs, private homes or special events.
Many expeditions are accompanied by a National Geographic expert or expert team who share their knowledge and passion for a region and help make each experience enriching and unforgettable.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With National Geographic Expeditions?
Photography enthusiasts
All ages
Adventurous minded
Nature lovers
History buffs
Life long learners
National Geographic is one of those special brands that has managed to successfully straddle the line between “your grandfather loves them” and “your eighteen year old sister loves them”. They cover a wide range of topics, themes, and travel styles, with the educational aspect always prevalent yet not overbearing.
If you love feeling like an explorer and an adventurer when you travel, and love learning about the world from experts in a variety of fields, National Geographic is the perfect place for you. This is a company for those who want to dig deeper, like getting the inside story from multiple perspectives - historical, cultural, political, economic, scientific and more.
National Geographic trips are great for families, and you can choose a private tour or a family friendly group, where hands on activities will widen your children’s worldview in innumerable special ways.
National Geographic trips are also extremely popular with photographers - novice photographers will enjoy their photography-centric tours, while many dedicated hobbyists can be found on their other trip styles as well.
If you’re the kind of traveler who sacrifices the space for a pair of shoes in your suitcase for another lens or photography accessory...you’ll be right at home on a trip with National Geographic Expeditions.
In the same way that National Geographic magazine has always inspired and furthered conversation and discourse, so too do their trips. The spirit of learning about the world is intertwined in every itinerary, so if you consider yourself a lifelong student, you should definitely consider traveling with National Geographic Expeditions.
Top Destinations
National Geographic Expeditions go all around the world, and cover almost every travel style imaginable. One might think they have a favoring of the more “exotic” locations but an impressive number of United States and European tours are offered as well as farther reaching destinations. National Geographic Expeditions in the Galapagos are especially popular.
Regardless of where you travel, you will be sure to get off the beaten path and discover unique cultural landmarks, meet interesting people, and enjoy a sense of adventure.
Small-ship expeditions, done in conjunction with Lindblad Expeditions, can take you to Antarctica, the Galapagos and points beyond. Classic train journeys include the Trans-Siberian and trains through India, Spain, and Switzerland. Active adventures might take you hiking in Bhutan or meeting Berbers in Morocco. Land tours could take you to Tanzania, Peru or the Grand Canyon.
National Geographic Expeditions Travel Style
The travel style with National Geographic Expeditions has an aura of old fashioned exploration with a modern twist.
National Geographic Expeditions is a family friendly outfit, offering a wide range of prices and trip styles. Trips vary from mid range budget to higher. Physical level is usually light to moderate.
By virtue of their longstanding presence in the world, National Geographic has a wide reaching global network to lean on for incredibly unique and authentic lodging options, knowledgeable guides, and VIP access to historical and archaeological sites.
They have several broad travel styles you can choose from:
Land Trips - National Geographic Land Trips are immersive explorations, often covering nature and wilderness points of interest such as national parks. They also dive into ancient cities and cultures, with trips exploring everything from monks in Burmese mountainside temples to the lives of nomadic Mongolian peoples. Most trips are around 11 days and physical level is between light and moderate, with some trips featuring moderately challenging hikes in various altitudes.
River Cruises - a relatively new addition, Nat Geo now offers around 7 river cruises in Europe covering the Danube, Rhine, and Douro. Currently they also have 1 river cruise in Asia, along the Irrawaddy. These trips are typically between 7 - 11 days and feature wine tasting, history tours, and very light physical activity.
Private Expeditions - If you and your family, significant other, or a few close friends are looking for a more intimate travel experience than a group of strangers, Private Expeditions are a great way to travel. These trips are customizable, and can be crafted to perfectly suit your interests and dates.
Photography Trips - National Geographic has consistently featured award winning travel photography. They run regular contests for those inspired by the thousands of groundbreaking and historic photographs taken by journalists and travel photographers around the world. On National Geographic photography trips you can actually learn tricks of the trade from real-world photographers and improve your skills.
Train Trips - Travel was revolutionized with the implementation of the railroad, allowing people to travel in what was then a rapid pace from destination to destination. Today this ideal has been flipped on its head, and train travel is a leisurely paced excursion allowing time to relax and appreciate the slower meandering through beautiful countrysides. National Geographic train trips cover the classics, such as the Trans-Siberian railway and the Rocky Mountain railroad. Accommodations are comfortable, around a premium level, with options to upgrade.
Active Expeditions - For those who enjoy a bit more of an adrenaline pumping and active travel experience, National Geographic also has trips for you. These trips feature multiple active outings, such as kayaking, hiking, and caving. Expect to explore the outdoors covering unique natural phenomena and gaining insight into how and why the landscape has been shaped the way it has. These trips also feature cultural insights, just to a lesser extent.
Family Expeditions - National Geographic is the perfect company to travel with when you have curious and adventurous youngsters eager to see the world. They will learn about other cultures, people, food, nature and wildlife from experts with “cool jobs” that might even inspire lifelong interests and perhaps influence a career. These trips are specifically designed to be hands on, allowing everyone to get involved and learn about how things work.
Private Jet Trips - For a luxurious and more lengthy travel experience, nothing beats a Private Jet tour. A dedicated team will be with you, and you’ll experience all the best that National Geographic has to offer from local guides to premiere accommodation. These trips are in a very high budget range, but if it’s in your wheelhouse - it’s a superb way to travel and cover a lot of ground.
Journeys - Part of a partnership with G Adventures, these trips are adventurous and immersive small group excursions imbued with the spirit of National Geographic. The best of two top travel worlds!
Why Choose a Tour With National Geographic Expeditions?
When you travel with National Geographic you are participating in and contributing to a spectacular legacy. Over the years National Geographic has cultivated a reputation for being about cultural exploration, scientific advancement, and broadening perspectives.
Their travel experiences are perfect for anyone wishing to get back to the roots of what adventurous, experiential travel really means and enjoy discovering the world from multiple angles.
Really one of the best parts about traveling on a tour with National Geographic Expeditions is the sheer breadth of knowledge, personal and professional experience their guides bring to the table. They help provide richly detailed context, historical information, and dive into the details of local life, by showing and doing as well as explaining. You the traveler will have the true experience of getting to know a place from the inside out.
If that wasn’t enough of a reason, proceeds from your trip price go towards supporting National Geographic’s ongoing nonprofit work in conservation, exploration, education, and cultural preservation.
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Preferred
Abercrombie & Kent
View Profile
Total Trips 32 Trips
Average Price
$ 704 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 10 – 10 days
Trip Prices $ 7,595 – $ 7,595
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
Trips in Egypt
1 Tours in Egypt
Overpriced, too much crammed into each day, and important aspects of the trip dropped....with no advance notice
Wings over Mediterranean Sept 2022. Other than the intra-city flights which were first class private jet, the rest was......average. Tour buses with windows too small to see any passing points of interest. A 250 sq ft "luxury" hotel room---thought I was in a Motel 8. Museum tours led by local experts who over-talked so long that they cut into anything that was planned for the remainder of that day. Restaurants....3 in particular very small, crowded, and not even remotely above average. Written itinerary says "and then return to your host city and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure." No way...we usually got back to the hotel around 5:30 after already passing up at least one planned exhibit. We had no special tour group privileges...we were just part of the pack and were overrun by tourists at every stop. $40,000 per person....a big huge "ouch"
COMPANY IS IN REAL FINACIAL TROUBLE
THIS COMPANY HELD ME FINACIALLY HOSTAGE FOR A AFRICAN MAY 2021 SAFARI. I HAD TO CANCELL THE SEPTEMBER 2021 TRIP BECAUSE THEY BASCIALLY STEALLING MONEY FROM ME. DO NOT BOOK WITH THEM.
Exceptional Tour of Italy's Treasures
We took the A & K Small Group Tour to Rome, Florence & Venice. The experience exceeded expectations! Wonderful itinerary (with the ability to flex to the group's unique needs & requests!). Our guide (Emmanuela) was exceptional! Fun, extremely organized, considerate of all group members & always making sure that we had a 5-Star experience. Highly recommend this company (& this tour) - we will travel with A & K again!
Egypt & the Nile 2021
Trip Style: Small group tour
Co-founded by current CEO Geoffrey Kent in 1962, Abercrombie & Kent started out in modest fashion as an African safari operator, but quickly grew into one of the world's premiere luxury travel brands. Today they cover the globe, with 50 offices worldwide.
What Makes Abercrombie & Kent Stand Out?
Award-winning luxury tour operator
Insider-access opportunities
Focus on culture, wildlife, and history
Abercrombie & Kent is one of the world’s leading luxury travel companies. The emphasis is very much on luxury here -- whether it’s small-group travel (limit of 18 per group), tailor-made journeys, expedition cruises, train travel, African safaris, European barge cruises, or any of its many other offerings, just about everything A&K arranges is top of the line.
They are specific in their travel style, promising superior and attentive service, comfort, and cultural exploration. While this may seem exclusionary - and the prices are quite a barrier to entry.
Luxury travel might have a reputation for being swanky and even perhaps a bit dull, particularly for those who travel for adventure, the image being a glass of champagne all day long, moving from meal to meal, sitting on the private deck of a cruise ship. This perspective is a misnomer however, as there is quite a bit of action available on tours with Abercrombie & Kent.
Enjoy invigorating walks, hikes, get outdoors to remote locations, meeting local people and learning about their cultures; experience the thrill of getting up close to waterfalls, and poise your camera for the perfect shot on a safari. Then retire to your room for a cocktail before dinner.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Abercrombie & Kent?
Ages 65-75
Luxury travelers
Abercrombie & Kent travelers embody an adventurous spirit, but enjoy the finer things as well. “Elegant exploration” is one way to put it. These travelers appreciate a slow pace and personalized attentive service. The age range tends to be older - baby boomers and seniors looking for a relaxing experience, with many cultural touch-points, but not overly “immersive” as their children and grandchildren might prefer.
This is upper crest travel at its finest - though Abercrombie & Kent makes a concerted effort to be worldly and inviting, your experience is definitely a luxury version of any given destination. This is a travel company that offers Private Jet trips, some of which offering the chance to meet an Abercrombie & Kent family member.
Think private after hours tours, exclusive outings with artisans, chefs, and winemakers; spectacular meals and accommodations that go a touch beyond comfortable. Imagine the civilized world of cocktail hour and dressing for dinner, but in the context of exploration. Perhaps you’re sipping your negroni on the deck of your private suite in Kenya, gazing out across the savannah with elephants silhouetted in the distance, against the dusty yellow sunlight of dusk. This is the wonderful travel world waiting for you with Abercrombie & Kent.
The majority of A&K’s guests come from North America or Britain. A&K trips are definitely not for the budget traveler, but they offer deluxe lodgings and transport and exceptionally attentive service, which their customers value highly.
Top Destinations
Abercrombie & Kent made its name offering luxury small group and private safaris in Africa. Today they go around the world, but with the same luxurious approach.
Luxury doesn’t mean same-old, same-old or unadventurous though. Groups head off on Antarctic expeditions or Uganda gorilla safaris, visit Tibet or Machu Picchu, join a European or Nile river cruise, or travel to India’s Pushkar Fair.
You can ride deluxe trains or fly across Africa by private jet with Abercrombie & Kent. Or you can outline your own tailor-made journey under the guidance of an A&K consultant, then be accompanied by their guides throughout.
Abercrombie & Kent Travel Style
There could be a tendency to view Abercrombie & Kent as old fashioned when it comes to travel style. However there is a difference between old fashioned and appreciating a traditional travel style. Those who travel with Abercrombie & Kent do expect a certain kind of experience. From luggage handling to having the salad fork in the correct order, from short or non-existent lines to special assistance when needed. These expectations have become the blueprint for an Abercrombie & Kent travel experience.
Transportation on an Abercrombie & Kent tour is almost always private and chartered. Exceptions would of course be rail journeys, but here you would have a private car and access to first class dining and viewing. Your journey may involve anything from helicopters, private jets, luxury coaches, and yachts. Walking is a common part of most guided tours, but you can expect simple and easy distances during your A&K itinerary. (Unless of course you are on a Gorilla Trek!).
Accommodation follows a similar pattern. Luxury hotels, safari lodges, villas, you name it and it’s probably available.
Why Choose a Tour With Abercrombie & Kent?
Abercrombie & Kent promises to deliver an authentic, “insider” travel experience, such as seeing Machu Picchu under the guidance of its former resident archaeologist. You can even ride an elegant train to get there. In Tanzania, A&K runs its own luxury safari camps.
From the time they first meet you at the airport until trip end, Abercrombie & Kent promises that your trip will go as smoothly as possible -- and that their entire global organization will be dedicated toward that goal.
It may strike some as contradictory to see certain parts of the world in luxury. Some countries have luxury homes, but they are only available to tourists and travelers because the locals simply occupy a different social sphere. There is a unique dependency on tourism in much of the world. Abercrombie & Kent takes this seriously, doing their philanthropic part wherever possible, giving back to the local communities.
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Preferred
Viking River Cruises
#37 Pick of 120 Egypt Tour Companies View Profile
Total Trips 19 Trips
Average Price
$ 280 per day
Size Global Operator
Tour Length 12 – 12 days
Trip Prices $ 4,899 – $ 4,899
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
River Cruise Line
Trips in Egypt
1 Tours in Egypt
Good and no so goog
Recently returned from a Viking Rhine trip on 10/14.
The good:
Rhine water levels were good, no issues. Service on the vessel was A+, excluding one attendant with “attitude” at the front desk. Entertainment was low key but acceptable. Viking succeeds in creating a laid back atmosphere. Viking is like a clock - they run on time. Cabin was nice and shower was exceptional. Most (not all) tours were informative, guides ranged from good to excellent. Tour buses were top shelf with experienced drivers.
The not so good:
All 6 in our group were disappointed with the food (not service but food) all week excluding breakfast. All felt the food offerings got “old” real fast. Food appeared to be prepared in advance and then reheated. Plenty of TV movies, tv and internet reception poor all week.
Most concerning
Viking, customs, and airline never asked to see our proof of vaccination. While Viking did a excellent job in keeping the boat itself clean and sanitized we had an issue on one of the bus tours. A unmasked woman sitting directly behind my wife was sweating & coughing non-stop. Not a occasional sneeze or cough, it was obvious this woman was ill. At the first stop multiple riders relocated to seats as far away from this individual as possible. Regrettably, Viking said/did noting.
Viking claims they are not the Covid police and if we felt compromised we should have put on a mask. Absolutely ridiculous that Viking felt we should have masked but took action to pull this woman aside, require her to mask with a suggestion to see a physician. Again - we’re not talking about normal coughing and sneezing- this woman was visibly ill. Viking was willing to put 30 travelers at risk rather then ask a visibly ill woman to mask up. It’s Vikings boat, tour, bus but they say and do nothing.
Of course 2 of 6 in our group contracted Covid.
Viking had a obligation to do everything within their control to protect us as best possible. In this instance they didn’t even try.
Not trying to trash Viking, just being truthful.
Misleading and often just plain dishonest.
We paid for a 3 week luxury river cruise but received a large group bus trip across Europe with many days of packing and unpacking. I called our Viking representative when we received an email message just 2 days prior to departure that mentioned a possibility of problems with low river levels. I was assured that everything was "normal" In reality, as we learned later from ship personnel, nothing has been normal for at least 3 months. About 2 weeks prior to departure, we received by mail, lovely personalized booklets describing all the details of our voyage on the Viking Lif, which we were to board in Russe, Romania. Instead, we boarded the Viking Aegir but not at Russe, because the Danube was too low. Instead we rode buses upstream to a port on the Romanian side directly opposite our first scheduled stop at Nikopol, Bulgaria. We had a beautiful cruise through the Iron gate gorge, but after three more scheduled stops in Bulgaria, Serbia, and Croatia, our voyage was terminated in Mohacs, Hungary, an unscheduled place two days short of reaching Budapest. So we were herded into buses for a 1.8 hour ride each way to our scheduled stop at Kalocsa. The next day we retraced the journey to Kalocsa and continued an extra 1.5 hours to reach Budapest. We lost the entire morning in Budapest and spent the night at the Marriott hotel. The next day we lost the entire afternoon in that city because we had to take a 4 hour bus ride to Vienna. Where we were put aboard the Viking Embla. Our voyage on that ship ended two steps later at Passau Germany. After a day in Passau we went upriver for a short distance and it seemed that we had entered the canal to take us to the Main river. But much to our surprise, it was a dead end channel for an industrial port. We spent two days there with our balcony room moored tightly against another Viking ship so there was nothing to look at but the scenery at that site was even worse than looking at someone else's window and the balcony was unusable anyway due to the unpleasant odors at that site. The pattern continued with a long round trip bus ride the next day to our scheduled stop at Regensburg and a 3 plus hour trip the following day to Nuremberg where we finally boarded the Viking Lif. A crew member told us that the Lif had not traveled east of Nuremberg for 3 months. We sailed from Nuremberg to scheduled stops in Bamberg, Wurzburg, and Werthiem and then our voyage terminated for good at an unscheduled port in Mainz. Once again we endured a long round trip journey to our next scheduled stop at Koblenz, followed by a 10 plus hour bus trip (with lunch and a walking tour in Cologne) to Amsterdam and a night in a hotel. Despite a promise that our bags would be in our rooms (they did take great care to provide us with tags so they could easily keep our bags organized) all the baggage was dumped in the hotel garage and it took a good 15 minutes of searching to find it and then take it to our rooms ourselves. There is much more, but it would only be more descriptive of the misery of this trip. We know Viking didn't cause the low river levels, but they did not need to lie to us and make us suffer because of it.
Tourico Vacations -Rhine River Cruise
Rhine Getaway Itinerary:
We sailed from Basel, Switzerland up north on the Rhine River and ended at Amsterdam in the Netherlands. Viking also offers the same route in reverse, from Amsterdam to Basel so you can pick either. For a couple stops on the journey, boats running in opposite cities are docked together.
We had a wonderful time and especially loved how organized the entire Viking journey was, from pre-departure to on-board, everything was seamless. Also unlike many other cruises or guided tours, almost everything was included, which made it feel like a truly relaxing vacation.
Here’s a snapshot of our 7-day itinerary and what we got up to each day!
Day 1: Arrive in Basel, Switzerland
We arrived in the small, quaint town of Basel after our international flight. This was the general arrival / travel date so we expected to just check in and relax but discovered that Viking organized a guided walking tour of the town. That was a nice surprise!
There’s also the option to arrive a couple days early and/or stay a couple days late. If you are thinking of this, here’s a quick guide to the best hotels in Basel to help with accommodation.
Basel is an underrated tourist attraction and the third largest city in Switzerland. The town has a gorgeous Medieval center and plenty of world-class art museums. There’s a reason Art Basel is held here!
We checked out the Romanesque cathedral, took endless pictures of the colorful medieval buildings and headed back to our ship to relax and meet everyone for cocktails and dinner. A great first day!
Read more: An Afternoon in Basel, Switzerland’s Most Underrated City!
Day 2: Germany’s Black Forest & Colmar, France
On our second day, we sailed northward to dock at Breisach, Germany. In the morning, we learned how to make cuckoo-clocks, put together Black Forest cake and walked a bit throughout the Black Forest.
The wooded mountain range is the site of many local legends and populated all over with black fir trees. If you like hiking, the mountains are wonderful!
In the afternoon, we signed up for an optional tour to Colmar. Located in the Alsace Lorraine region, the town is part of France but throughout much of history, changed hands between Germany and France. You’ll find lots of German and French spoken as a result!
I highly recommend visiting this quaint medieval town. Every street looks perfectly preserved and it’s quite colorful. We wandered mostly on our own, ducking into gelato shops and chocolate stores while enjoying the colorful, medieval feel.
Read more: The Most Picturesque Alsatian Town of Colmar
Day 3: Strasbourg, France
If you skip the optional to Colmar, no worries! Strasbourg is its larger cousin and also located in Alsace, France.
We had a wonderful guide for this day who guided us throughout the small canals, pointing out colorful streets and letting us know about Strasbourg’s tangled history in the hands of Germany and France.
Strasbourg occupies a strategic position on the Rhine River and is the ninth largest city in France. It’s home to many European councils and organizations, like the European Court of Human Rights (a building built like a ship) and the Council of Europe.
For the most part, we stuck to the Old Medieval Town but drove through the modern section. Highly recommend a visit to the Cathedral!
Read more: 24 Hours in Strasbourg (coming soon)
Day 4: Heidelberg, Germany
Heidelberg is a university town with a energetic, small town feel. In the morning, we visited Heidelberg Castle, which perhaps should be called a ruined fortress, as much of it was destroyed by lightening, fires and war.
The ruins and castle are built high above the city and the observation terrace is well worth a look! Meanwhile, the city was almost entirely spared from bomb attacks during World War II and it’s narrow streets and baroque charm remain largely intact.
We explored Heidelberg’s Old Town (Altstadt) by walking along the main shopping street Hauptstrasse. This is actually the longest shopping street in Europe! For the most part, I spotted large chain stores & restaurants.
I actually recommend skipping this street to explore the quaint alleyways and backstreets instead. Much more picturesque!
Read more: The Best of Heidelberg Germany in 1 Day
Day 5: Rhine River Castles & Koblenz, Germany
By day 5, we had reached the middle Rhine and spent our morning above deck watching the gorgeous small German towns and castles along both sides of the Rhine River. Our Viking program director gave a guided tour along the way, pointing out castles left and right.
Many of them are situated high above local towns and we saw lots of German camper vans parked at the base. I recommend bringing a pair of binoculars for this part, as some of the castles can be set a bit farther away and the detail through a zoom is incredible.
By afternoon, we reached Koblenz, a city set at the mouth of two rivers. We explored Marksburg Castle and wandered a bit on our own after. This was another ruined fortress high above the river. Interesting history, but wear good shoes! The entire castle is unpaved, rocky and entirely uneven.
A couple others from the cruise did the optional dinner excursion on this day and raved about it.
Read more: A Photo Diary of Pretty Rhine Castles
Day 6: Cologne, Germany
During the Holy Roman Empire, Cologne was the largest medieval town in Europe. Naturally, it’s Gothic cathedral is the hallmark draw! The nice thing about this stop is the ship can dock right into town, so you can join the tour or explore on your own.
We explored the Kölner Dom’s interior and were suitably awed. If you want a great view, Viking offers an optional tour that takes you all the way to the very top! I had already been to Cologne on a previous trip so instead, we opted for a palace excursion.
We visited Augustusburg Castle, one of two gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage site classified as Bruhl Palaces. The castle was once home to the prince-archbishops of Cologne and is decked out in gold, marble and all-around extravagance.
I particularly liked the massive entryway staircase which was gilded and made my mouth drop open when we turned the corner. Highly recommend this day trip if you love castles half as much as I do!
The interiors were really unique and the guided tour was excellent. After the main palace, we did a quick tour of the hunting lodge as well, which was just as stunning.
Read more: Exploring Cologne (coming soon)
Day 7: Kinderdijk, The Netherlands
Kinderdijk is home to the Netherlands’ famous windmills. I’ll admit I didn’t know too much about the country outside of Amsterdam and our guide was quite helpful to explain the history of the nation and the purpose of its many windmills. Much of the Netherlands would sink, were it not for windmills to pump away water.
We even got to tour inside the home of a windmill keeper (see photos of a windmill interior here!). What I didn’t realize was that windmill caretakers actually lived inside them with their families!
I thought the interiors were particularly interesting and our guide mentioned that some Dutch families managed to fit 13 children inside.
They’re quite small so I noticed lots of hooks for hanging, curved bunk-bed type rooms and lots of stair ladders. The Dutch windmill keepers also had a number of really unique boats which I took too many pictures of!
Fun fact: Kinderdijk is in the region of Holland in the nation of The Netherlands where the people speak Dutch.
Read more: Visiting A Dutch Windmill Home (and other day trips from Amsterdam!)
The Rhine Getaway Cruise
One thing I liked about sailing with Viking is how leisurely the day to day pace is. There’s generally an opportunity to sight see in the morning and afternoon, with one included tour and one optional tour.
We chose to do 2 optionals and on the other days, relaxed on board or went into town to explore on our own! It was a well-balanced pace and I truly felt “on vacation”.
Here’s a recap of our daily itinerary with Viking:
Day 1 Arrive in Basel, Switzerland
Day 2 Morning: Sail to the Black Forest
Afternoon: Explore Colmar, France
Day 3 Explore Strasbourg, France
Day 4 Morning: Explore Heidelberg’s Castle and Old Town.
Evening: Stop in Rudesheim
Day 5 Morning: See German castles along the Rhine River
Afternoon: Visit Koblenz, Germany
Day 6 Morning: Visit Cologne, Germany
Afternoon: Day trip to Bruhl Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Day 7 See dutch windmills at Kinderdijk. Arrive in Amsterdam in late evening.
Watch video: Tourico Vacations Viking River Cruise
Pathways of the Pharaohs
Trip Style: River cruise
Founded in 1997 as a line offering Russian river cruises to Europeans, Viking expanded to the North American market in 2000.
What Makes Them Stand Out?
Since 2007, Viking River Cruises has zoomed from carrying one-fifth to one-half of all passengers in the fast-growing European river cruise market. Not only is Viking the world’s largest river cruise line with some 66 ships now in service around the globe, but the line is operating at near full capacity in Europe, with many itineraries sold out months in advance.
Who Travels With Them?
They cater primarily to “culturally curious” English-speaking Americans, Canadians, British, Australians, and New Zealanders aged 55-plus. (Think sophisticated viewers of PBS’ “Downton Abbey,” which its helps to sponsor.)
Where Do They Operate?
Besides European rivers such as the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Seine, Duoro, and the waterways of Russia between Moscow and St. Petersburg, Viking now cruises three rivers in Southeast Asia -- the Yangtze, Mekong, and Irrawaddy -- and along the Nile in Egypt.
Why Travel With Them?
While they may not rank as the most luxurious river ships, many of Viking’s vessels are sleek, innovative, and freshly minted: the line has added 18 new ships in 2014 alone. Overall, Viking has established a reputation for offering an incredible value - high-quality service, food, and guided shore excursions at competitive prices, all adding up to strong repeat customer loyalty rates.
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Lion World Travel
View Profile
Total Trips 47 Trips
Average Price
$ 376 per day
Size Local Specialist
Service Level Luxury
Operator Type
Group Tour Operator
We had the best time ever!
We had the best time ever! It was truly the best vacation we've ever taken. The people were fabulous, service oriented, friendly, accommodating...a pleasure to be around! Everything was just perfect!
The accommodations, fabulous, the food was way too delicious. We highly recommend this trip to anybody and kept toasting Costco along with three other couples for the way they put this trip together it was really brilliant thank you so much for your help with all our questions and how quickly you got back to us for each inquiry you are very efficient at your job. Thank you so much!
On another note, on the safari, Francois put together a surprise celebration luncheon at their treehouse to celebrate our daughter Kate's medical school graduation. It was truly amazing and we couldn't have been happier or more appreciative of all they did. It was so special and they put so much effort into it—leaving champagne, a beautiful lunch, and also baking a cake just for this occasion! It was such a nice, wonderful touch and made for a fabulous memory!
It was absolutely fabulous.
It was absolutely fabulous. Marataba is an experience beyond words. The animals speak for themselves but the lodge is extraordinary. Capetown was lovely but Marataba is an impossible act to precede. We will be recommending you and your colleagues without reservation and with the greatest enthusiasm.
Despite the “World” in its name, Lion World Travel is all about African safaris and tours, promising “extraordinary experiences of affordable luxury” from East Africa down to South Africa.
You can choose between group travel and individual itineraries, where you can mix and match as you please. Along with wildlife safaris, for instance, Lion World Travel can set you up with a luxury train trip (such as South Africa’s Blue Train) on your itinerary or into a luxury resort on an island in the Indian Ocean.
What Makes Lion World Travel Stand Out?
Lion World Travel has more than 50 years of experience running tours and safaris in Africa. While it’s now part of the giant Travel Corporation and is headquartered in Toronto, its roots are in Africa, and the company maintains offices and a full staff on the ground in Africa.
They know their stuff, including the top lodges and tented safari camps – where they negotiate the best prices for their customers. Lion World Travel also includes airfare and/or single traveler specials in many of its trips, making them more affordable. Guides in the field are top-notch.
Who Will Enjoy Traveling with Lion World Travel?
Lion World Travel is the perfect tour company for travelers who are after the classic luxury safari experience, but perhaps find the pricing for this kind of experience prohibitive from a lot of other luxury safari operators.
A luxury safari conjurs up images of comfortable lodges keeping out the bugs, sunsets with silhouettes of elephant and giraffe in the distance, cocktails on the veranda, and five star dining. This is exactly what you’ll experience with Lion World Travel - in addition of course to the incredible daytime activities out on the savannah in a comfortable (or as comfortable as possible) safari jeep vehicle encountering incredible species after another.
Lion World also doesn’t skimp on the cultural aspects of visiting Africa. Especially due to their legacy - with many strong relationships formed with local people over - you’ll feel a sense of warmth and welcoming.
Families, honeymooners, single travelers, and food and wine aficionados are all welcomed with special itineraries and deals. “Platinum Itineraries” are offered for those seeking luxury all the way.
Top Destinations
Lion World Travel runs safaris and other trips in 12 countries in East and southern Africa, including two Indian Ocean island groups, Mauritius and the Seychelles.
On the mainland, you can explore the wildlife parks and other attractions of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Mozambique, Rwanda, and Namibia.
Lion World Travel Style
The Lion World Travel style allows you to either choose a set itinerary for a small group tour – such as “Victoria Falls and Botswana,” “South Africa Culinary and Wildlife,” or “Luxury Tanzania” (including the Serengeti) – or put together your own custom made itinerary with Lion’s Africa experts there to advise you.
Once you’re there, expect a luxurious feel with top notch friendly service, and excellent food and drink.
While luxury accomodations are a big part of traveling with Lion World Travel, they are also all about making sure you experience the best the Africa has to offer.
Safaris take advantage of full days, departing at 6am returning for a bit of rest and heading out again to observe the nocturnal behavior out on the savannah. The day might wind down with a glass of champagne but not before you’ve taken to the air in a hot air balloon!
Why Choose an Africa Tour With Lion World Travel?
Lion World Travel combines more than five decades of experience in Africa with the resources and backing of the Travel Corporation, which owns two dozen respected travel brands, including Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, and Uniworld river cruises. If you’re seeking a well-organized luxury safari with good value, this might be the company for you.
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Great Safaris
View Profile
Total Trips 46 Trips
Average Price
$ 355 per day
Size Local Specialist
Tour Length 9 – 9 days
Trip Prices $ 2,495 – $ 2,495
Service Level Standard
Operator Type
Custom/Private Tour Operator
Trips in Egypt
1 Tours in Egypt
first class service
My husband and I just got back from our honeymoon trip booked through Great Safaris. It was a trip of a lifetime and we were so impressed by the accommodations, food and first class service. We saw more animals than we ever expected to see and our safari guides were very knowledgeable. Our trip was two weeks and Great Safaris picked all the right spots in Kenya and Tanzania!
Safari camps in South Africa and Botswana and explored the Cape Town region.
Travel with comfort, great food, safety and wonderful game viewing experiences. First time trip to Africa for my wife and I. All the guides and boat and safari camp staff were professional and fun. The transfers and connections were seamless. The home hosted dinner near Cape Town gave fascinating perspectives on life in South Africa.
Land of The Pharaohs
Trip Style: River cruise
Based in Glendale, California, Great Safaris is a wholesaler that highlights a host of luxury safaris and other trips throughout southern and eastern Africa as well as Egypt and parts of the Middle East.
What Makes Them Stand Out?
They promote some “trips of a lifetime” such as a 32-day Cape to Cairo journey by train, safari vehicle, plane, and river cruise ship with stops at a number of wildlife reserves (including Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park) as well as Victoria Falls and Ethiopia.
Who Travels With Them?
Families, small groups of friends, or individuals seeking a first-class African wildlife safari or tour of Egypt.
Where Do They Operate?
Great Safaris specializes in South Africa, but also operates in Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya, the Seychelles, Egypt; and parts of the Middle East (Israel, Jordan, and Abu Dhabi, which are usually combined with African destinations).
How Does It Work?
Great Safaris outlines a wealth of safari possibilities and Egypt tours and offers personal consultation on selecting your trip. Then you book your tour through your favorite travel agent.
Why Travel With Them?
CEO Dave Herbert has lived extensively in South Africa and knows the region well. He works only with highly experienced agents who are also intimately familiar with Africa.
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Reviews Write a Review
Duy, the tour leader was attentive, informative and the food we were given was fantastic.
So much so, that we will organise another night street food tour in Hoi An when we arrive there.
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
JC
Judy CC
February 2023
Duy, the tour leader was attentive, informative and the food we were given was fantastic.
So much so, that we will organise another night street food tour in Hoi An when we arrive there.
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So much so, that we will organise another night street food tour in Hoi An when we arrive there.
Operator Urban Adventures Company Reviews
Just finished up our South Dakota tour. It was great. Saw a ton of great sites like Mount Rushmore, crazy horse, badlands, devils tower. Beth our guide was great and very knowledgeable. Being the first trip out during COVID-19 I was a little worried but they went above and beyond to put us at ease. Clean bus everyday, spacing out of guests, keeping the same seats everyday and provided masks for everyone. I can not say enough about our trip. We took our two children ages 13 and 14 and they really learned so much. I will definitely try another Collette tour again!
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
K
Kathleen
July 2020
Just finished up our South Dakota tour. It was great. Saw a ton of great sites like Mount Rushmore, crazy horse, badlands, devils tower. Beth our guide was great and very knowledgeable. Being the first trip out during COVID-19 I was a little worried but they went above and beyond to put us at ease. Clean bus everyday, spacing out of guests, keeping the same seats everyday and provided masks for everyone. I can not say enough about our trip. We took our two children ages 13 and 14 and they really learned so much. I will definitely try another Collette tour again!
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We had the best time ever! It was truly the best vacation we've ever taken. The people were fabulous, service oriented, friendly, accommodating...a pleasure to be around! Everything was just perfect!
The accommodations, fabulous, the food was way too delicious. We highly recommend this trip to anybody and kept toasting Costco along with three other couples for the way they put this trip together it was really brilliant thank you so much for your help with all our questions and how quickly you got back to us for each inquiry you are very efficient at your job. Thank you so much!
On another note, on the safari, Francois put together a surprise celebration luncheon at their treehouse to celebrate our daughter Kate's medical school graduation. It was truly amazing and we couldn't have been happier or more appreciative of all they did. It was so special and they put so much effort into it—leaving champagne, a beautiful lunch, and also baking a cake just for this occasion! It was such a nice, wonderful touch and made for a fabulous memory!
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
T
Trish
June 2020
We had the best time ever! It was truly the best vacation we've ever taken. The people were fabulous, service oriented, friendly, accommodating...a pleasure to be around! Everything was just perfect!
The accommodations, fabulous, the food was way too delicious. We highly recommend this trip to anybody and kept toasting Costco along with three other couples for the way they put this trip together it was really brilliant thank you so much for your help with all our questions and how quickly you got back to us for each inquiry you are very efficient at your job. Thank you so much!
On another note, on the safari, Francois put together a surprise celebration luncheon at their treehouse to celebrate our daughter Kate's medical school graduation. It was truly amazing and we couldn't have been happier or more appreciative of all they did. It was so special and they put so much effort into it—leaving champagne, a beautiful lunch, and also baking a cake just for this occasion! It was such a nice, wonderful touch and made for a fabulous memory!
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The accommodations, fabulous, the food was way too delicious. We highly recommend this trip to anybody and kept toasting Costco along with three other couples for the way they put this trip together it was really brilliant thank you so much for your help with all our questions and how quickly you got back to us for each inquiry you are very efficient at your job. Thank you so much!
On another note, on the safari, Francois put together a surprise celebration luncheon at their treehouse to celebrate our daughter Kate's medical school graduation. It was truly amazing and we couldn't have been happier or more appreciative of all they did. It was so special and they put so much effort into it—leaving champagne, a beautiful lunch, and also baking a cake just for this occasion! It was such a nice, wonderful touch and made for a fabulous memory!
Operator Lion World Travel Company Reviews
This is a very interesting tour. It turned out to be much more interesting than I expected at advance. To a large extent, this was facilitated by the Program Director Mrs. Soha Sabbour. I will recommend this tour to my friends.
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
S
Sergey
March 2020
This is a very interesting tour. It turned out to be much more interesting than I expected at advance. To a large extent, this was facilitated by the Program Director Mrs. Soha Sabbour. I will recommend this tour to my friends.
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Tour Splendors of Egypt
Loved the tour, the guides, the hotels, the cruise ship & the food!! Great trip!! Can't wait to choose my next Smartours destination! Thanks again Luke!!
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
D
Donna
March 2020
Loved the tour, the guides, the hotels, the cruise ship & the food!! Great trip!! Can't wait to choose my next Smartours destination! Thanks again Luke!!
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Tour Splendors of Egypt
"The Splendors of Egypt" was our eleventh SmarTorus trip. As usual, it was an incredible experience. We can't say enough about our tour guide, Soha. Besides being an outstanding organizer and trouble-shooter, her local background and education as an Egyptologist gave us a welcome extra understanding of the culture(s) and history of Egypt. Her experienced local assistants helped make everything run as smoothly as possible. The riverboat for our Nile cruise was far more comfortable that we had expected, with a spacious cabin and attentive crew. Granted, there are a couple of early wake-ups during this trip, but they were actually welcomed by our experienced group of travelers (just a few good-natured groans) as they allowed us to get a jump on our filled days, and a jump on other tour groups. All in all, another great experience with smarTours. Can't wait for another "smart" adventure. Marsha & Joel
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
M
Marsha
March 2020
"The Splendors of Egypt" was our eleventh SmarTorus trip. As usual, it was an incredible experience. We can't say enough about our tour guide, Soha. Besides being an outstanding organizer and trouble-shooter, her local background and education as an Egyptologist gave us a welcome extra understanding of the culture(s) and history of Egypt. Her experienced local assistants helped make everything run as smoothly as possible. The riverboat for our Nile cruise was far more comfortable that we had expected, with a spacious cabin and attentive crew. Granted, there are a couple of early wake-ups during this trip, but they were actually welcomed by our experienced group of travelers (just a few good-natured groans) as they allowed us to get a jump on our filled days, and a jump on other tour groups. All in all, another great experience with smarTours. Can't wait for another "smart" adventure. Marsha & Joel
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Tour Splendors of Egypt
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