Join us for an eight-day discovery retreat in Upper Egypt in a way that others can only dream of: sailing the ancient River Nile on a historic and luxurious sailing barge, the Dahabeiya.

Before setting sail, we will spend two days and nights in Luxor, the site of ancient Thebes with its stunning temples and tombs.  Our lodging is the historic Marsem Guest House, which continues to be the inn of choice for archeologists working on the West Bank. The Marsem is situated at the point where the lush green of the Nile’s agricultural lands edge up to the desert and the Theban necropolis. 

The Marsem’s garden courtyard is delightful for sipping chai and ‘ah’wa (cardamom coffee) and enjoying delicious meals. We will visit the nearby Medinat Habu, a stunning temple dedicated to Ramses III,  Deir el Medina, the village and tombs of the artist commoners who designed the Royal Tombs by day, and who, by night, returned home to exquisitely paint their own.  We will have free time to stroll through markets and visit other iconic and magnificent sites. 

Then we travel south by van to Esna, where we will meet the grand Dahabeiya and her crew and then, set sail. From the peaceful, canopied deck of the two-sailed Dahabeiya with its glorious views of life along the river, to the modern, sparkling cabins and private baths, we will enjoy another unforgettable 6 days. We will dine on authentic Egyptian cuisine, made from fresh ingredients purchased each day from farmers and fishermen along the river. We will visit makers & artists, shop at markets, walk the desert at sunset, listen to live music, and visit ancient architecture. There will be opportunity to sketch and explore colour and drawing with artist Julia Morgan, enhance your travel photography skills, and so much more.

Below is a sampling of our Itinerary as we sail up the Nile. 

 DAY 2: EL KAB & EDFU

El Kab, on the East bank of the Nile, was once the capital of Upper Egypt and is still home to the temple of Nekhbet, as well as a row of fascinating decorated tombs carved into the slope of the mountains. Upon docking, we will stroll through a small fishing village to visit the necropolis. 

In the afternoon, the boat will arrive at Edfu, home to the Greco-Roman temple dedicated to the god Horus. Horse and carriage will take us through the busy city streets to visit this well-preserved temple of Horus. After returning to the boat, we set sail for a beautiful island.

DAY 4: GEBEL SILSILEH

Here, the Nile, flowing between two mountains ranges, is at its narrowest. We will likely be the only visitors at this fascinating site, as large Nile cruisers are not allowed to stop here. After visiting the small temple of Horemheb and walking through the sandstone quarries, where ancient Egyptians cut stone for many of their most famous temples, we will enjoy tea and shisha (waterpipe) in a local cafe. We will then sail to a picturesque riverbank where we stop for   lunch and swimming.

DAY 6: ASWAN

Awake to the beautiful sight of the desert closing in on the river at Aswan Bridge. Here your cruise comes to an end. You will leave us relaxed and refreshed in the morning.

We are so excited for this incredible journey, and can't wait to meet you. 

Where Luxor, Sailing On the Nile, Egypt

When October 15th -22nd, 2016

Price $2965.00 Double Occupancy  $3295.00 Panoramic Suite 50 % due  to reserve your space final payment is due  on August 15, 2016

WHAT IS INCLUDED

• Accommodation 

 • All meals

 • English speaking guide

 • Transportation and sightseeing as per the itinerary

•  Museum/Maker visiting fees

•  Beverages & snacks throughout ( non Alcoholic)

What is not included

• Air fare

• Travel insurance 

Cancellation Policy: Please know you can make it before booking. The workshop is non-refundable.

Insurance: Travelers Insurance Highly recommended

This is a no refund retreat.

We highly recommend travelers insurance