Meeting: As soon as the Egyptian Authorities has issued clearance, we will depart the ship. As we leave the ship we will be greeted by a Representative from De Castro Tours. Having  arrived at the port the night before, the De Castro team will be refreshed and ready to begin the two-day private tour. Our safety is of utmost importance. Our driver will be well rested and alert for the transfer to Cairo.  We will be first in line for the Convoy traveling by air-conditioned coach .

A security person will be provided by the Egyptian Government and will be on board at all times to protect us and our belongings. Also on board for our two-day private tour of Cairo, Giza, Sakkara will be an  English-speaking Egyptologist. During the tour we will do the following:

Egyptian Museum of Antiquities: Built in 1857, under the supervision of August Mariette, it contains an entire floor of the fabulous treasure of Tutankhamen, including the famous Death Mask.  Throughout the Museum we will see other artifacts from the Golden Age of the Pharaohs. We will spend approximately two - three hours here and just get a taste of what this wonderful museum has to offer. Tours of the Mummy Rooms will be available at an additional cost.

Lunch at a local restaurant

Saladin Citadel, and Mohamed Ali Alabaster Mosque There are many interesting sites to see here including the Citadel.

Hotel Check in: Some may wish to relax after your day of touring with some mint tea, while the  final arrangements are being taken care of for your overnight stay at a 5* hotel. Some hotels offer a Pyramid view room at an extra cost.

You have two options tonight. You may choose either one or both.

Option 1 The Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids: The sound and light show at the pyramids is an enchanting experience. The show makes the ancient times come alive through sound, light, and music describing the history of the Pyramids and the glory of the Pharaohs. The show lasts about 45 minutes. Bring a sweater. It can get cool at night.  Cost is $30.

Option 2 Nile Dinner Cruise on the Nile Pharaoh: The Nile Pharaoh is known to offer one of the most luxurious dinner cruises on the Nile with the best service. The food and the entertainment (belly dancers, twirling dervishes and singers) are known to be excellent. This is a dinner option for the tour and costs $45.  There are many fine restaurants in or near the hotel also.

DAY TWO:

After breakfast we will begin our tour of the Saqqara: South of Cairo in Saqqara, is one section of the great necropolis of Memphis. Saqqara is best known for the Step Pyramid, the oldest of Egypt's pyramids. It was built for King Djoser of the 3rd Dynasty by the architect and genius Imhotep, who designed it and its surrounding complex to be as grand as it was unique and revolutionary. Imhotep was the first to built stone tombs to honor the king.

Giza Plateau:  We have caught a glimpse of them on day 1, but this is what you've been waiting for! The Great Pyramids of Giza, dating back to 2500 BC , are some of the most famous manmade buildings in the world.  The only remaining member of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World!   Stroll around each pyramid.  Ample time will be provided to enter into one of the Pyramids. (optional cost) You may also choose to visit the Solar Boat. (optional cost)

Giza Plateau Overlook: You will have the opportunity for a photo op on a camel. This costs around $2. Longer Camel rides are around$19 This is also a great photo opportunity for capturing all three Pyramids!

Sphinx: During your time at the Giza Plateau, there is no escaping the mysterious Sphinx, a symbol which has come to represent the essence of Egypt for thousands of years. With the body of a lion and the head of a king, there is as much mystery surrounding who built it as there is determining why it was built. There will be ample time to enjoy and soak in this wonderful experience.

Transfer from Cairo with Arrival in Port And Transfer to the Ship: Scheduled for arrival 2 hours before ship sailing. There is a market inside the port area where you can pick up some last-minute souvenirs. This package costs $225 per person double occupancy.

The tour package includes the following:
*** One night in deluxe 5-star Le Meridien Pyramids (breakfast included).
*** Lunch the first day.
***Two-day Tour of Cairo  with private English-speaking Egyptologist. ***Private air-conditioned coach with toilet for visiting all sights.
***Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids ***Nile River Dinner Cruise (Optional tour cost)
*** All entrance fee tickets for tourist sites ( The mummy room at the Egyptian Museum is not included.)
*** Meet and assist at Alexandria upon arrival
*** All transfers (Alexandria /Cairo/Alexandria) *** Security during the tour
*** An English-speaking Egyptologist as our guide
What’s not included?

*Egypt entry visa (this is arranged by Celebrity Cruises)
* Beverages (except water and soft drinks available on the bus)
* Personal expenses
* Tips for the Drivers, the Guide, etc.
Luggage: Please limit your luggage to one light hand-carried piece per person. You are responsible for carrying your own luggage off vehicles and to and from your hotel.
Dress: You are visiting a predominately Muslim country, so dress appropriately, and wear conservative dress that covers the shoulders and knees. Please do not wear clothing printed with graphics that may offend.

PLEASE NOTE: Occasionally changes need to be made to an itinerary, but any substitutions will be made within the same class of accommodations or restaurant.