faqs
Ancient Path • Egypt 2026
2 Nights Cairo
7 Nights Nile River Cruise
3 Nights Giza
SAT. NOV 7 - THU. NOV 19, 2026 • 12 NIGHTS
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You will receive email reminders prior to these dates to ensure you don't miss any deadlines:
1-7-26 • Flights available to book
8-5-26 • Remaining trip balance due
Week of 8-17-26 • Initial Itinerary App will be ready
Week of 10-5-26 • Final update to Itinerary App & Travel Packets with hard copy documents will be mailed out -
This trip is designed for guests ages 18 and older.
Because this journey is rooted in the Christian faith and includes insights and discussions with a biblically perspective, guests are asked to be respectful of this focus. Both believers and those with a sincere interest in biblical history are warmly welcome.
Due to the pace and nature of the itinerary—including uneven terrain, stairs, and limited accessibility at many sites—it is not suitable for guests using wheelchairs or those with significant mobility limitations.
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You will need an entry Visa for Egypt, which has been included in the cost of the vacation package and will be arranged closer to travel dates.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS >>> CLICK HERE <<<
It is your sole responsibility to confirm requirements in advance and again before travel, as regulations may change. Click the website link to look up each country on your itinerary, including connections.
ENROLL IN S.T.E.P. >>> CLICK HERE <<<
Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free U.S. Department of State service that connects your trip to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.Benefits Include:
Safety Updates: You receive real-time information about travel alerts, warnings, and security situations in your destination country. This could include political unrest, natural disasters, or health emergencies.
Emergency Assistance: If an emergency occurs abroad—whether it's a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency back home—the U.S. embassy or consulate can better assist you. They will have your location and can reach out with guidance or offer help in evacuating.
Contact for Family or Friends: In case of an emergency, family members or friends can use the State Department to reach you if you're unreachable by other means.
Support for Legal and Medical Needs: U.S. embassies and consulates can help facilitate medical assistance or legal resources in case of illness, injury, or trouble with the law.
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Yes, travel to Egypt is considered safe for visitors, especially in the areas that we will be visiting.
As of July 15, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has officially lowered Egypt’s travel advisory to LEVEL 2 — the same as places like the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy.
Several of our trusted colleagues—fellow travel advisors we know personally and greatly respect—have led group trips to Egypt within the last few months. They have all shared that their travelers felt very safe throughout their journeys. Local authorities actively monitor the safety situation and remain in close communication with licensed tour operators to help ensure traveler safety.
We will travel together the entire time, supported by experienced local guides and partners. While no destination is risk-free — including the US — this journey has been carefully designed with your comfort, care, and security in mind.
Note: The area near the Gaza border should still be avoided. We will be over 240 miles away from the border.
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In general, temperatures in early to mid-November offer warm sunny days and cool nights.
Cairo & Giza: 60 - 77°F
Luxor: 56 - 83°F
Edfu & Kom Ombo: 59 - 84ºF
Aswan & Philae Island: 62 - 85°F
Abu Simbel: 61 - 84ºF
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COMMON PRACTICES
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country with a conservative dress culture, particularly outside tourist resorts.
Men: Lightweight pants and short- or long-sleeved shirts are appropriate.
Women: Modesty is key. Covered shoulders and knees are generally expected. A scarf is not required, but bringing one can be helpful for entering religious sites.
At mosques: Both men and women should dress conservatively. Shoes are removed before entering. Women will usually need to cover their hair.
Greetings tend to be warm and polite. A handshake is common between men; a hand placed over the heart may replace a handshake when greeting women or in more conservative settings.
Public displays of affection should be minimal. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing or hugging in public may be frowned upon.
EXPECTATIONS
There is a visible police and military presence throughout Egypt, especially near tourist sites. This is normal and intended to ensure safety for visitors. You may encounter checkpoints when entering temples, museums, and hotels.
When dining in Egypt, expect hearty, flavorful meals with an emphasis on legumes, rice, grilled meats (especially chicken and lamb), and aromatic spices. Meals often include fresh flatbreads, tahini, lentils, and vegetables, with less seafood than in Mediterranean coastal regions.
Ask permission before taking photographs, especially of people. In some places, photography is not allowed at all.
When walking through a market place, do not give eye contact or take anything handed to you by a merchant unless you are prepared to pay for it. Bargaining is expected in markets (souks), but should be friendly, not aggressive.
Traffic can be chaotic, especially in Cairo. Cross streets with caution and, when possible, follow the lead of locals. Pedestrian signals are not always followed.
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To accommodate our transfers, please limit luggage to 1 checked bag, 1 carry-on, and 1 personal item per person.
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CLOTHING
Lightweight Layers: Pack short-sleeved shirts and long-sleeved options to accommodate varying temperatures.
Pants and Shorts: Choose breathable fabrics for comfort during warm days and cooler evenings. Shorts for women will be acceptable on the cruise ship.
Evening Wear: Elegant-casual resort wear for dinner and events. For women: a dress, skirt with blouse, slacks with nice top. For men: collared shirt (button-down or polo), dress slacks, nice sweater, sport coats are optional. Avoid shorts, t-shirts, and baseball caps in the evening.
Sweater or Light Jacket: Evenings can be cool; a light layer will be useful.
Swimwear: Bring a swimsuit and coverup for the onboard pools
Comfortable Shoes: Pack walking shoes for excursions, sandals for warm weather, and dress shoes for evenings.
ACCESSORIES
Scarf or Wrap: Useful for warmth, accessorizing, and modesty when visiting mosques.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are essential for protecting against UV rays.
Jewelry
Hair bands, clips, etc.
Belt
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure all necessary documents, including any health-related certificates, are readily accessible.
Medications: Bring any over-the-counter and prescription medications along with a first-aid kit for minor issues.
Power Adapter: Check the plug types for your destinations; you may need a universal adapter.
Day Bag or Backpack: Ideal for carrying bottled water, tissues, hand sanitizer, and more while on excursions.
TOILETRIES
Basic Toiletries: These will be provided at the hotels and on the ship, but if you prefer, pack travel-sized items including shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
Personal Care Items: Include items like deodorant, makeup, tooth care, and skincare products to maintain your routine.
TECHNOLOGY
Smartphone/Tablet: Useful for staying in touch, snapping photos, viewing itinerary, navigation, and more.
Camera: Pack if you do not use your phone to capture memories.
Charger and Power Bank: Keep your devices powered while out on excursions.
OPTIONAL ITEMS
Binoculars: Great for observing wildlife or scenic views.
Books or E-Reader: For relaxing during downtime on board or during port stops.
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Plug Type: Type C and F (European-style two-pin)
Voltage: 220VBe sure to pack a suitable adapter (US uses 110-120V).
Note: Power strips/serge protectors are NOT allowed.
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CURRENCY
Egyptian Pound • (EGP)
Most places of business in tourist areas accept MasterCard & Visa. Only a few places accept American Express.TIPPING
All gratuities associated with the vacation package have been included in the pricing. However, if you feel you received exceptional service and wish to show your appreciation, additional tips are welcome. -
DATA PLANS
Before your trip, check with your cell phone provider to learn about international rates and coverage options so you can stay connected no matter where you are.WI-FI
Hotels and the cruise ship will have complimentary Wi-Fi, though it may be unreliable in some areas while sailing.WHATSAPP
This is a free messaging and calling app that works over Wi-Fi instead of traditional SMS or voice minutes. So long as you are logged into Wi-Fi, you will be able text, call, and share photos while using this app. -
Travel protection is highly recommended.
Days Prior to Arrival
95 days or more
Egypt Unlimited's Policy • Loss of Deposit
Dogwood Travel's Policy • $400 cancellation fee
94 - 65 days
Egypt Unlimited's Policy • 25% Trip Cost
Dogwood Travel's Policy • $500 cancellation fee
64 - 40 days
Egypt Unlimited's Policy • 50% Trip Cost
Dogwood Travel's Policy • $600 cancellation fee
39 or less days
Egypt Unlimited's Policy • 100% Trip Cost
Dogwood Travel's Policy • $750 cancellation fee