Scientific pioneers of the ancient world, Cairo and Alexandria: Egypt

March 2026 – 7 days

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Embark on an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s two most iconic cities, Cairo and Alexandria, where ancient history meets modern charm. Explore the grandeur of Egypt’s pharaonic, Islamic and Greco-Roman legacies.

Ancient Egypt was one of the most scientifically advanced civilisations on Earth in its prime. The people of ancient Egypt developed technology, architecture, engineering and astronomy practices that went unmatched for thousands of years. Remarkably, a great deal of this legacy remains to the present day, and recent investment, including the vast new Grand Egyptian Museum, means there has never been a better time to visit.

Begin your adventure in Cairo, Egypt's bustling capital, home to the legendary Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Stand in awe of these colossal monuments, remnants of a civilisation that shaped human history. A visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum offers a deeper look into Egypt's past, showcasing thousands of artefacts, including the complete treasures of Tutankhamun. Strolling through the museum, you will be transported through millennia of pharaonic glory, with exhibits that bring history to life like never before.

From Cairo, travel along the Mediterranean coast to Alexandria, a city rich in Greek and Roman heritage. Explore the eerie yet fascinating catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, an underground necropolis blending Egyptian, Greek and Roman influences. Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, where scholars once gathered to expand the frontiers of knowledge. Finally, stand by the shimmering sea at the Qaitbay Citadel, a 15th-century fortress built on the ruins of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria. The sight of waves crashing against its historic walls is the perfect way to end your journey through Egypt’s past and present.

This tour is an excellent introduction to this fascinating destination for first-time visitors, as well as those looking to explore this magnificent country further.

In partnership with Kirker Holidays. 

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN CARIO

For the next three nights, you will stay at the Crowne Plaza West Cairo Arkan, located close to the pyramids and the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum. 

In the evening, meet your fellow guests and tour leader, who will brief you on your trip, then take you for a welcome dinner.

DAY 2: PYRAMIDS OF GIZA AND SURROUNDING AREA

Today, you will visit the Pyramids of Giza, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, which are remarkable examples of ancient Egyptian engineering and architectural prowess. 

The Great Pyramid of Giza was originally 146 metres tall, but erosion has reduced its height to around 138 metres. It was the tallest structure of human origin in the world for over 3800 years. The Pyramid of Khafre is slightly smaller than the Great Pyramid of Giza and is associated with the fourth king of the Fourth Dynasty, Pharaoh Khafre. They stand as a testament to the advanced knowledge of mathematics, engineering and astronomy possessed by the ancient Egyptians.

In addition to the pyramids themselves, the Giza Plateau is home to the Great Sphinx, a massive limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a Pharaoh, believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre.

Explore the pyramids and the surrounding complex, where you will gain insights into the scientific principles employed in their construction and astronomical alignments.

DAY 3: GRAND EGYPTIAN MUSEUM

More than two decades in the making, the striking Grand Egyptian Museum offers a state-of-the-art home for Egypt’s extraordinary collection of ancient artefacts. It is now the world’s largest archaeological museum: its collection comprises more than 100,000 items, including many objects of scientific and technological significance and the unique treasures of Tutankhamun. You can explore exhibits featuring ancient tools, instruments and devices used in various scientific and medical practices of the time. Notable artefacts include the Edwin Smith papyrus, which contains the earliest known medical text, and the famous Egyptian astronomical ceiling.

DAY 4: CAIRO TO ALEXANDRIA 

Today, you will depart Cairo and head to the Hellenic city of Alexandria, nestled on the Mediterranean Sea, where you will spend the next two nights.

Founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great, Alexandria became one of the most important cultural and intellectual centres of the ancient world. Situated on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, it was strategically positioned as a hub for trade and culture, rapidly growing into one of the largest cities in the world by the Hellenistic period. 

The city is best known for the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world; its Great Library, the largest in the ancient world; and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.

DAY 5: EXPLORE ALEXANDRIA

Spend the day exploring Alexandria, beginning with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a stunning piece of modern architecture located on the shores of the Mediterranean. Although the original Library of Alexandria was destroyed, this modern version stands as a revival of the ancient library's spirit. While you are there, you can explore its vast collection of books, manuscripts and ancient texts.

In the afternoon, visit the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa which were built in the 2nd century AD. This necropolis consists of tombs, statues and archaeological objects with Hellenistic and early Roman influences, which merge Roman, Greek and Egyptian cultures.

You will also stand on the former site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, also known as the Pharos, named after the island on which it had been built. Having been severely damaged in multiple earthquakes between 796 and 1303 AD, in its place lies the 15th-century Qaitbay Citadel, which you will visit.

DAY 6: ALEXANDRIA TO CAIRO 

You will return to Cairo this morning and stay for your final night in the centre of the city. 

Enjoy an afternoon cruise on the Nile. As you sail, you will be treated to stunning views of both ancient and modern Cairo. On one side of the river, you will see the bustling city; on the other, the serene flow of the Nile adds a sense of tranquility. 

Return to the hotel for a farewell dinner. 

DAY 7: DEPART CAIRO

After a farewell breakfast, depart Cairo for your journey home.