Step into the heart of Egypt on a journey designed exclusively for high-end, travellers seeking adventure, sustainable travel, and exclusive cultural immersion.
From the vibrant streets of Cairo to the timeless wonders of the Nile, this tour invites you to experience Egypt’s rich heritage in a way that is both deeply authentic and effortlessly indulgent.
Explore iconic ancient temples and uncover hidden gems. Feel the pulse of Cairo’s bustling markets, marvel at the sheer grandeur of the pyramids, and sail the Nile aboard a luxurious private dahabeya, where history drifts past your window. This is Egypt beyond the postcards – intimate, raw, and inspiring, with exclusive access and handpicked luxury stays that ensure a journey like no other.
With expert guides and bespoke experiences, whether wandering through labyrinthine bazaars, sharing laughter over elegantly prepared traditional feasts, or gazing in awe at the stars over Abu Simbel, this journey is about embracing the unknown in comfort and style, while forging unforgettable memories.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Egypt! You will be met upon arrival at Cairo’s International Airport and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure to explore this bustling city. Cairo is busy and crowded and the smog can make your eyes water. Beneath this haze, you will see the city’s true colours. The call of prayer echoes through the streets, the energy of local life buzzes and is addictive. Street food aromas will overload the senses and a hidden charm shines through. Grand palaces and mosques are to be explored and the pyramids of Giza overlook the modernising city from a distance, providing the perfect mix of bygone eras and eclectic styles.
Overnight – Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel or similar
At Crooked Compass, we do the Pyramids of Giza differently. The experience we offer is not just about avoiding crowds. It’s about restoring reverence to one of the world’s most sacred places, and doing so with grace, comfort, and a deep respect for both the destination and the traveller.
Your morning begins in a private VIP arrivals lounge, far from the chaos of the main entrance. Here, you’ll be welcomed with Egyptian hospitality, fresh juice, tea, coffee and light refreshments, in a beautiful and peaceful setting where time slows down. This quiet start sets the tone for everything that follows.
At your scheduled time, a private 4WD golf buggy and personal driver will meet you at the back VIP gate. Onboard, you’ll find chilled drinks to sip on as you explore the plateau entirely at your own pace. No being herded, no loudspeaker commentary, no jostling for space. Just uninterrupted views, quiet approach, and the freedom to linger where others are rushed.
Your expert Crooked Compass guide travels with you throughout, weaving together the history, mythology and engineering behind the pyramids and the Sphinx, tailoring the storytelling to your interests, not a pre-written script. If you wish, time can be built in to enter the Great Pyramid, all without the pressure of a group schedule.
And then comes the finale: a long, luxurious lunch at Khufu Restaurant, one of Cairo’s finest. Overlooking the pyramids from an exclusive terrace, you’ll enjoy a traditional Egyptian banquet-style spread, crafted from fresh, local ingredients. This is not a rushed post-tour meal, it’s a sensory celebration, paired with panoramic views overlooking the pyramids that bring the morning full circle.
This is not simply a visit to Giza.
It’s a deeply considered, intimate and elevated encounter with one of the world’s most extraordinary cultural sites.
This afternoon, explore the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), set on the Giza Plateau with views toward the Pyramids. As the largest archaeological museum in the world dedicated to a single civilisation, the GEM presents Egypt’s ancient history within a purpose-built, contemporary setting.
The museum’s galleries trace Egypt’s story from its earliest beginnings through the Pharaonic and Greco-Roman periods, featuring monumental sculpture, royal artefacts, and everyday objects displayed with clear historical context. Spacious halls and carefully structured interpretation allow for a cohesive understanding of chronology, belief systems, and craftsmanship.
The Grand Egyptian Museum provides a natural orientation to Egypt’s archaeological heritage and serves as a central cultural anchor for the journey.(B,L)
Overnight – Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel or similar
Following breakfast in your hotel, start the day with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the restoration lab at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization before exploring its vast collection. Next, visit the imposing Citadel and the stunning Mohamed Ali Mosque, where history and architecture blend seamlessly. Enjoy lunch at Zeyara restaurant, enjoying the local flavours (beverages not included). This evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a maze of alleyways filled with spices, silver, textiles, and hidden treasures. (B,L)
Overnight – Four Seasons Nile Plaza Hotel or similar
Begin your day with a transfer from Cairo to Alexandria, stopping en route at Wadi El Natron, an area rich in Coptic history where thousands of Christians sought refuge from Roman persecution in the 4th century. Of the 60 original monastic compounds, only four remain. The region was also significant to the ancient Egyptians, as its salt lakes produced natron, a key ingredient in mummification. A packed lunch will be provided for your journey. (B,L)
Overnight – Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano or similar
After breakfast, you’ll visit the Catacombs (Kom el Shoqafa), the burial sites of early Christians, and Pompey’s Pillar, the tallest memorial column in Egypt made of red granite, standing 28 metres high with a base diameter of 2.7 metres. Next, explore the Jewellery Museum to discover Egypt’s finest jewellery collections, followed by a visit to the Alexandria Library, one of the world’s most famous literary landmarks. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon is yours at leisure. (B,L)
Overnight – Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano or similar
This morning, transfer to Cairo airport for a late flight to Luxor. On the way to Cairo, you’ll visit the El Alamein War Cemetery, a solemn site honouring the soldiers who lost their lives during the World War II North African Campaign. The cemetery contains the graves of over 7,000 Commonwealth soldiers, with beautifully maintained grounds and a memorial that pays tribute to their sacrifice. Upon arrival in Luxor, transfer to your accommodation. The evening is yours to unwind and explore at your own pace.
Al Moudira is a tranquil retreat on the west bank, away from the noise and bustle of downtown Luxor. This is a Relais & Châteaux property with a strong sense of place, nestled on the edge of a quiet village and surrounded by gardens, produce fields and local life – think secluded oasis. The hotel manages its own organic farm and offers three distinct dining experiences, including a paddock-to-plate farmhouse restaurant, a traditional Egyptian offering and international cuisine.
Architecturally, it evokes Morocco more than modern Egypt, think a tangle of garden paths, shaded courtyards, fountains and a pool framed by palms. The rooms feel like you’ve stepped inside an artist’s riad, all hand-carved detail, bold colours and luxuriously rustic charm. It’s peaceful, intimate and carefully curated – perfect for those wanting to return to calm at the end of each sightseeing day. (B)
Overnight – Al Moudira Hotel or similar
This morning you will visit Dendera. Dendera is located about 67 kilometres (1hr, 15m) north of Luxor on the west bank of the Nile River opposite the provincial modern town of Qena.
Ancient Egyptian Lunet or Tantere, known to the Greeks as Tentyris, was the capital of the 6th nome of Upper Egypt and a town of some importance. Today, we know it as Dendera, though the population of the town has, since antiquity, moved to Qena across the Nile on the east bank. Now, the ancient temple lies isolated on the desert edge. Along with the temple itself, there is also a necropolis that includes tombs from the Early Dynastic Period, but the most important phase that has been identified was the end of the Old Kingdom and the 1st Intermediate Period. The provinces were virtually autonomous at that time and, although Dendera was not a leading political force in Upper Egypt, its notables built a number of mastabas of some size, though only one had any decoration apart from stelae and false doors. On the west end of the site are brick-vaulted catacombs of Late Period animal burials, primarily birds and dogs, while cow burials have been found at various points in the necropolis. Of course, this was a significant site for the Hathor cult, whose forms included a cow.
After lunch, head to the East Bank to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple, home to the massive hypostyle hall with your private guide. Next, wander through Luxor Temple, famous for its towering obelisks and statues that have stood the test of time. As evening falls, indulge in a delicious dinner on board. (B,L)
Overnight – Al Moudira Hotel or similar
This morning you will transfer from your Luxor accommodation to board your Dahabeya, for your Nile River cruise.
Dahabeya’s don’t operate on structured cruise line schedules, which means travellers can avoid peak-hour site visits and the crowds that come with convoy-style Nile cruising. They offer far more freedom and a significantly more pleasant onboard experience. They also support local villages and families along the Nile, by stopping for meals and engaging with the communities for various experiences. This is an added experience of connection and culture that is missed when on a regular Nile cruise. Dahabeyas are the most sustainable vessel on the Nile – beautiful, wind-powered vessels (supported by a tug when needed).
Enjoy breakfast on board before heading to the West Bank with your private guide, where you’ll wander through the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, then marvel at the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut (El-Deir El-Bahari), a jaw-dropping feat of architecture dedicated to Egypt’s only female pharaoh. Afterward, return to the cruise for lunch while sailing to Esna. Sip on sundowners as the sun dips, enjoy dinner while sailing, and overnight beside a small island. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Dahabeya
Enjoy breakfast while crossing Esna Lock, followed by lunch as you sail to Edfu. Visit Edfu Temple with your private guide, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, before tea at sunset while continuing to El Ramadi Island. Dinner is served beside an island, accompanied by an exclusive Egyptian Rabab show. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Dahabeya
Visit Gebel El Silsila early in the morning, a unique temple set within the mountains. This exclusive experience is only accessible to Dahabiyas, as larger ships cannot reach this site. Enjoy breakfast on board before setting sail to Kom Ombo. Upon arrival, visit the Temple of Kom Ombo with your private guide, dedicated to both the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon-headed god Haroeris. Enjoy lunch while crossing Shekh Fadl Island. At Hor Diab Island, enjoy a swim in the cleanest waters of the Nile. Dinner is served on board while sailing to Aswan, where you will overnight. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Dahabeya
Visit the stunning Philae Temple with your private guide, dedicated to the goddess Isis. In the afternoon, explore the High Dam, an impressive feat of engineering. Overnight in Aswan. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Dahabeya
Start the day with breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to Aswan airport for your flight to Abu Simbel. Once there, enjoy a private tour of the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel Temple. The Temples of Abu Simbel, among the most interesting in Egypt, are located 280 km south of Aswan near the southern border with Sudan. These two rock-cut temples, dating back to the reign of King Ramses II (1290-1223 BC), were partially damaged by the rising waters of Lake Nasser during the construction of the High Dam. With the help of UNESCO and other countries, Egypt successfully saved these remarkable structures. After your tour of Abu Simbel, you will return to Aswan and transfer to your hotel.
Built in 1899 and famously where Agatha Christie wrote Death on the Nile, the Old Cataract Hotel is classic, cinematic Egypt at its best. (B,L,D)
Overnight Old Cataract Hotel (or similar)
This morning is at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your flight to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo, transfer to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. (B)
Overnight – Fairmont Hotel or similar
This morning following breakfast, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your onward flight to your next destination. (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of 30% per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
More about out Tour Styles.
Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
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