Egypt Uncovered: More Than Just Pharaohs
Jan. 21-Feb. 2, 2026
Join us along the Nile as we explore the wonders of Egypt, both ancient and modern. From the iconic pyramids to King Tut’s tomb, we’ll visit the monuments that shaped a civilization.
We’ll also delve into archaeological sites that reveal the daily lives of ancient city dwellers and non-royal communities. Our journey will be rounded out with strolls through vibrant souqs, visits to modern craftspeople, and peaceful moments sailing the Nile.
This is more than a tour — it’s an opportunity to experience Egypt with depth, context, and wonder.
Trip Details
Our Egyptian adventure will be a GO! once we reach a minimum of 10 registrations. Secure your spot before the Aug. 22, 2025, deadline. If the trip doesn't move forward due to low registration, deposits will be refunded. See Terms & Conditions for more.
Itinerary
20 Jan 26 (Day 0): Departure
Depart from Washington D.C. (IAD) on EgyptAir at noon, with a layover in Cairo before continuing to Luxor. We will arrive in Luxor the next afternoon.
Day 1: Arrival in Luxor – Nile Welcome
Arrive in Luxor and settle into your hotel, then unwind with a serene sunset felucca ride on the Nile and a welcome dinner at Sofra.
Day 2: Temples of Denderah & Abydos
Journey north to explore the beautifully preserved temples of Denderah (dedicated to Hathor) and Abydos (built by Seti I), returning to Luxor in the evening.
Day 3: East Bank of Luxor & Embark Nile Cruise
Visit the majestic Karnak and Luxor Temples, dedicated to Amun and to the glory of the pharaoh. Enjoy some leisure time, then board your Nile cruise for the next leg of your adventure.
Day 4: West Bank Wonders & Sail to Edfu
Discover the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon before setting sail toward Edfu.
Day 5: Temples of Edfu & Kom Ombo
Ride by horse carriage to the Temple of Horus in Edfu, then continue to Kom Ombo to visit its unique double temple before sailing to Aswan.
Day 6: Aswan Highlights & Nubian Culture
Explore Aswan’s treasures including Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the ancient village at Elephantine Island, with a visit to a Nubian village and time for shopping.
Day 7: Abu Simbel & Flight to Cairo
Take an early excursion to the temples of Abu Simbel (built by Rameses II and moved by UNESCO), then return to Aswan and fly to Cairo.
Day 8: Giza Pyramids & Grand Egyptian Museum
Stand in awe before the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, then explore the cutting-edge Grand Egyptian Museum.
Day 9: Saqqara’s Ancient Necropolis
Delve into Egypt’s Old Kingdom history at Saqqara, visiting the Step Pyramid, ancient tombs, and the Imhotep Museum.
Day 10: Coptic & Islamic Cairo
Wander through Coptic Cairo’s sacred sites, explore Islamic Cairo’s mosques and museums, and shop in the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar.
Day 11: Fayoum & Tunis Village Day Trip
Escape to the countryside to discover Tunis Village’s pottery scene, Lake Qarun, and Fayoum’s iconic water wheels.
Day 12: Farewell Cairo
Wrap up your journey with visits to the Islamic Art Museum and the Egyptian Museum, enjoy some final shopping, and gather for a farewell dinner before your late-night flight home.
Pricing
RATES
Trip rates start at $4,600 per person for double-occupancy bookings. For single-occupancy bookings, a supplement of $1,050 applies.
PAYMENTS
Deposit of $800 will be due by Aug. 22, 2025. Balance will be due by Sept. 29, 2025.
This trip is limited to 20 participants, and registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
- Roundtrip flights from Washington Dulles International Airport to Cairo
- Lodging for 11 nights
- Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan
- All in-country flights and transportation
- Guide service, including tips
- All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 2 dinners
- Cultural activities as listed in the itinerary, unless listed as optional
- Camel riding at the pyramids
- Sail boat on the Nile
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?
- Travel arrangements to and from Washington Dulles International Airport
- Visa fee ($25; see Terms and Conditions)
- All meals not listed above
Faculty Guide
Dr. Leslie Warden directs the excavations of the Kom el-Hisn Provincialism Project at the ancient Egyptian settlement of Kom el-Hisn in the western Nile Delta. She's also head ceramicist of the North Kharga Oasis Survey, directed by Salima Ikram American University in Cairo, and head of the ceramics group for the German Archaeological Institute's excavations at Elephantine.
Since 2012, she's taught archaeology and art history at Roanoke College, where she's also now an assistant vice president for curriculum and advising. Her research explores the rich history of Egyptian ceramics, the relationship between the provinces and the capital, and the material culture of non-elite communities.
Dr. Warden’s current work focuses on the social reconstruction of Egypt from the Old to Middle Kingdoms (ca. 2600–1650 BC) through the study of archaeological ceramics. Her research explores how commodity production and distribution were tied to Egypt’s economic, ritual, and domestic life, offering insights into local identities and regional continuity over time.
Registration
Ready for a new adventure?
From the pyramids to the Nile, explore Egypt's rich past and present. Reserve your spot today.
Terms & Conditions
Refunds
Deposits are non-refundable unless the trip is canceled by Maroon Passport due to low registrations. In that event, deposits will be refunded in full.
No refunds can be offered for other circumstances or for balance payments.
Travel Arrangements
Travelers are responsible for booking their domestic travel to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and for obtaining a valid passport. Passports must have at least six months of remaining validity at the time of the trip.
The cost of the visa isn't included in the tour package. Travelers can either apply for an Egyptian eVisa before departure or purchase a visa upon arrival for $25 USD (cash or credit accepted; U.S. dollars only).
International travel from IAD to Egypt and all in-country travel will be arranged by Maroon Passport as part of your tour package.
Photos & Videos
Maroon Passport may take photos and/or videos of activities during your trip. Roanoke College reserves the right to use this content for future promotions or other college-related purposes.
Acceptance of Risk
Participants acknowledge that travel may involve risk. Waivers must be signed and returned to Maroon Passport before departure. We strongly recommend purchasing additional travel insurance to cover inability to travel or health emergencies while in Egypt.
Contact Us
Questions?
We'd love to hear from you! Connect with us at travel@roanoke.edu.