Step into the land of pharaohs on an extraordinary journey through Egypt from July 26 – August 8, 2027, where ancient wonders, rich culture, and a rare celestial event come together for an unforgettable experience. This exclusive expedition goes far beyond traditional sightseeing, offering a fully immersive adventure led by expert Egyptologists and eclipse specialists. Begin in Cairo, where you’ll stand in awe before the legendary Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, explore the remarkable new Grand Egyptian Museum, and wander through the vibrant bazaars of Khan el Khalili. Discover the ancient capital of Memphis, the Step Pyramid of Saqqara, and even journey to the coastal city of Alexandria along the Mediterranean.
Your adventure continues in Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, where you’ll embark on a luxurious Nile River cruise. Sail in comfort while tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations, visiting extraordinary sites such as Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple illuminated at night, and the iconic Valley of the Kings. Along the way, explore the remarkably preserved temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo, and take in the timeless beauty of the Nile as it winds through desert landscapes and historic villages.
A true highlight of this journey is the breathtaking total solar eclipse, viewed from a private and exclusive setting along the Nile, accompanied by expert guidance and insight. As your journey continues south to Aswan and concludes with a visit to the magnificent Abu Simbel temple complex where you’ll witness some of Egypt’s most awe-inspiring treasures. Blending iconic landmarks, cultural immersion, elegant cruising, and a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event, this unforgettable Eclipse Tours/Ring of Fire Expeditions journey operated by Direct Travel offers a deeper connection to Egypt’s timeless legacy.
We are still perfecting the details of our itineraries. The information below is our estimated or possible itinerary. The final version will be available on or before June 30, 2026.
The itinerary is subject to change at the discretion of Eclipse Tours.com or Direct Travel. In particular, viewing the total solar eclipse will be weather dependent, and there is always a chance that passengers will not be able to view totality or view it only for a short period of time. Neither Eclipse Tours.com nor Direct Travel makes any guarantee as to the viewing of the total solar eclipse. Keep in mind that unexpected schedule changes could affect the program. Your Tour Director will keep you fully informed of any changes to planned activities.
Your journey begins as you depart North America on your overnight flight to Egypt, anticipating the adventure of a lifetime.
Upon arrival in Cairo, you will be warmly greeted and assisted through visa and customs procedures before transferring to your elegant hotel overlooking the Nile.
This evening, gather with fellow travelers for an Eclipse Tours Welcome Reception, followed by a delightful group dinner—your first taste of Egypt’s rich hospitality.
Overnight: Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezira or similar
Begin your exploration with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of ancient treasures.
After a local lunch, stand in awe before the iconic Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Enjoy a papyrus-making demonstration and take in sweeping panoramic views of Cairo.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Overnight: Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezira or similar
Travel back in time to Memphis, the ancient capital founded around 3100 BC.
Continue to Saqqara to witness the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, a groundbreaking structure in architectural history.
Following lunch, visit a local carpet weaving school for an authentic cultural experience, then explore the opulent Abdeen Palace Museum.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezira or similar
Enjoy a full-day excursion to the Mediterranean city of Alexandria.
Discover historic highlights including the Qaitbay Citadel and ancient catacombs.
Stroll along the scenic Corniche, passing the famed Alexandria Library, and visiting Pompey’s Pillar and Montaza Palace.
Return to Cairo for one last night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezira or similar
Explore the spectacular new Grand Egyptian Museum, offering a modern perspective on Egypt’s ancient treasures.
Later, wander through the vibrant Khan el Khalili Bazaar and historic El Moez Street before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.
This evening, fly to Luxor and embark on your Nile River cruise adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: MS Movenpick Hamees or similar
Enjoy a relaxed morning before visiting the magnificent Karnak Temple complex.
After lunch onboard, you will experience the magic of Luxor Temple illuminated at night.
Cap off the evening with optional stargazing from the deck.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: MS Movenpick Hamees or similar
Today is the highlight of your journey.
Witness the Total Solar Eclipse —an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime event.
Celebrate this extraordinary moment with special onboard programming, including a Q&A session with scientists,
a festive gala dinner, and optional evening stargazing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Gala Dinner
Overnight: MS Movenpick Hamees or similar
Visit the legendary Valley of the Kings and the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut.
Return to the ship for lunch as you begin your scenic sailing along the Nile toward Edfu.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: MS Movenpick Hamees or similar
Discover the remarkably preserved Temple of Edfu, dedicated to Horus.
Later, visit the unique twin temple of Kom Ombo, devoted to Sobek and Horus.
Continue sailing to Aswan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: MS Movenpick Hamees or similar
Explore the beauty of Aswan, including the Unfinished Obelisk and Philae Temple, steeped in the legends of Isis and Osiris.
Visit the impressive High Dam and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Corniche.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: MS Movenpick Hamees or similar
Fly to Abu Simbel to visit the awe-inspiring temples of Ramses II—one of Egypt’s most breathtaking archaeological sites.
Enjoy time at leisure before dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Seti IV Hotel
Fly back to Cairo and transfer to your hotel.
This evening, gather for a memorable farewell dinner as you reflect on your incredible journey through Egypt.
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Overnight: Hilton Heliopolis or similar
Transfer to the airport for your return flight home or continue your journey with an optional extension to Jordan, Israel, or elsewhere in Egypt.
Meals: Breakfast (if applicable)
All prices quoted are per person based on double occupancy in US Dollars.
Travel Protection Plan coverage is required for this program upon deposit. Pricing for such coverage is additional to the base fare and is calculated based on resident state/province and age of participants. By signing up for the tour, you agree to purchase a Travel Protection Plan by credit card upon receipt of deposit. Due to recent changes in travel insurance rules, Direct Travel Groups Team reservations@directtravelgroups.com will give you the breakdown and price PRIOR to processing your deposit. This ensures all coverage is in place as most insurance require purchase the same day of the deposit now.
Outside the US or if you choose to buy your own insurance the minimum coverage is for $1,000,000 USD emergency evacuation and repatriation and $50,000USD emergency medical PER PERSON. Direct Travel Groups Team reservations@directtravelgroups.com will also need to get Direct Travel’s approval on all insurance policies to assure it meets the charter company’s requirements.
Reserving your space on this program requires a $1,500 non-refundable deposit per person. Deposits are accepted by credit card only. Reservations are acknowledged in order received.
A 2ndnon-refundable deposit of $2,500 per person is due by 1/31/27.
Final Payment: The final payment is due on or before 7/31/27 Direct Travel handles all invoicing.
Cancellations and Refunds: Cancellation fees are based on the date the written notice is received by Direct Travel. (Notification of cancellation must be received in writing.) A full copy of our terms can be found in the booking form.
We highly recommend the purchase of a comprehensive travel protection plan that covers trip cancellation and delay protection as well as medical coverage and emergency medical transportation.
Click HERE to REGISTER and make payment. One registration form must be submitted for each room booked. If you are sharing a room with someone, please add them as a guest during your registration process, do not submit a 2nd registration form.
We cannot confirm you unless the registration form, trip protection policy and deposit are all received.
