Join Bishop Tessa Moon Leiseth and the people of the Eastern North Dakota Synod, ELCA
Journey to Egypt, a land woven deeply into the story of Scripture and the history of the Christian faith.
Explore the world of the Bible as we reflect on Egypt’s connections to the stories of Joseph, Moses and the Exodus, and the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt. Walk through ancient temples and stand before the Pyramids of Giza, experiencing the remarkable civilization that shaped the world in which many biblical stories unfolded.
Our journey will also introduce us to Egypt’s rich and often overlooked Christian heritage. In Old Cairo, visit historic Coptic churches including the Hanging Church and the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, traditionally associated with the journey of the Holy Family through Egypt. We will also explore Egypt’s ancient monastic tradition and learn about the Desert Fathers and Mothers whose communities helped shape Christian spirituality and monastic life for generations.
Along the way, sail the Nile, encounter the people and culture of modern Egypt, experience its food and hospitality, and create space for prayer, conversation, and reflection together.
*****
DETAILS:
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Trip departs on March 8, 2028, and returns on March 18, 2028
PRICING:
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$5,290.00 per person based on double occupancy
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Single room supplement: $890.00
PAYMENT PLAN:
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$300.00 deposit per person with registration to secure space
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Balance due on or before November 3, 2027
FLIGHT SCHEDULE:
* Flight times, flight numbers, equipment, gates, and seats are subject to change. For the most current information, check the airline website.
For more information, contact us at info@eliastours.com or (406) 261-7791
What is included in the tour
- Airfare
- 5 nights in 5-star hotels (Double Occupancy)
- 4 Nights on the Nile River Boat (4-star)
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner daily
- Entrance fee to all sites
- Visa
- All ground transportation is in a private tour bus
What is NOT included in the tour
- Gratuities for Guide, Driver
- Personal expenses
- TRAVEL INSURANCE: For questions, quotes, or to purchase travel insurance, visit Travelex Insurance or call (800) 228-9792 and use the code 26-0057 for Elias Tours.
This is more than a tour — it is an immersive journey through ancient Egypt, led by true specialists who know the country from the inside. You will be traveling with Elias Tours, owned and operated by Elias Nawawieh, Egypt expert, storyteller, and author of Beyond the Pyramids: Your Guide to Egypt’s Treasures.
With decades of experience, deep local partnerships, and a passionate on-the-ground Egyptian team, Elias Tours offers insider access, premium hotels, expert guides, and seamless logistics — creating a journey few agencies can match.
From the sacred churches of Coptic Cairo to the timeless temples along the Nile, from bustling bazaars to quiet desert horizons, this is Egypt as few ever experience it.
Discover Egypt with Elias Tours.
You don’t just visit Egypt. You experience it.
Day 1 – March 2: Departure from the USA
Our journey begins as we board our overnight flight to Cairo, Egypt, leaving behind the familiar and setting our sights on the land of the pharaohs. As we cross the Atlantic and Mediterranean, anticipation builds for the incredible experiences ahead—ancient pyramids, timeless temples, vibrant culture, and unforgettable moments along the Nile. Enjoy in-flight meals and settle in for the overnight journey.
Day 2 – March 3: Arrival in Cairo
Welcome to Egypt! Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, our local Elias Tours team will greet you and assist with visa and customs formalities before transferring to our hotel. Depending on arrival time, enjoy your first glimpses of Cairo, a city where ancient history and modern life blend together in fascinating ways. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner and introduction to the journey ahead.
Day 3 – March 4: Pyramids of Giza & The Great Sphinx
Today we experience one of the world's greatest wonders—the Pyramids of Giza. Stand before the massive Great Pyramid, the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, and hear the incredible stories behind these timeless monuments. Explore the Giza Plateau and marvel at the mysterious Great Sphinx, guarding the pyramids for thousands of years. Take in sweeping desert views, browse local crafts, and enjoy lunch with views near the pyramids before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight in Cairo.
Day 4 – March 5: Grand Egyptian Museum
After breakfast, visit the spectacular Grand Egyptian Museum, one of the largest archaeological museums in the world and Egypt's newest cultural treasure. Discover priceless artifacts from ancient Egypt, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun, royal statues, mummies, jewelry, and beautifully preserved relics spanning over 5,000 years of history. As you walk through the galleries, Egypt's ancient civilization comes vividly to life through stories of kings, queens, temples, and daily life along the Nile. Dinner and overnight in Cairo.
Day 5 – March 6: Coptic Cairo – Faith & Local Culture
Today we explore the spiritual heart of Christian Egypt in historic Coptic Cairo. Visit the Hanging Church, one of Egypt's most famous churches, along with the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga), traditionally believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt. Walk through narrow stone streets lined with churches, monasteries, and ancient walls while learning about the rich history of Christianity in Egypt and the enduring faith of the Coptic community. We will also enjoy time with a local Coptic priest for meaningful conversation and insight into the traditions, challenges, and spiritual life of the Coptic Church today. Dinner and overnight in Cairo.
Day 6 – March 7: Cairo to Luxor – Begin Nile Cruise
This morning we fly south to Luxor, ancient Thebes and once the glorious capital of the pharaohs. Upon arrival, board our luxury Nile cruise ship, your home for the next four nights along the legendary Nile River. After lunch onboard, begin exploring the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, an extraordinary site filled with towering columns, obelisks, sacred lakes, and massive statues built over centuries by generations of pharaohs. Later, visit Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated in the evening light and connected historically to Karnak by the ancient Avenue of the Sphinxes. Return to the ship for dinner and overnight onboard.
Day 7 – March 8: Valley of the Kings – Sail Toward Edfu
Cross to Luxor's West Bank, where the pharaohs built their elaborate tombs hidden among the desert mountains. Explore the Valley of the Kings, burial place of many rulers including Tutankhamun, where colorful hieroglyphics still decorate the ancient tomb walls. Continue to the impressive Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's greatest female rulers, dramatically built into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. Stop at the towering Colossi of Memnon before returning to the cruise for lunch. This afternoon, relax onboard as the ship sails through the Esna Lock toward Edfu. Enjoy watching everyday life unfold along the riverbanks—farmers in the fields, fishing boats, and villages much like those seen for centuries along the Nile.
Day 8 – March 9: Edfu – Kom Ombo – Sail to Aswan
This morning, visit the Temple of Horus at Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt. Enter through its massive stone gateway and discover beautifully carved halls dedicated to Horus, the falcon god.
Return to the ship and continue sailing south along the Nile to Kom Ombo, where we explore the fascinating twin temple uniquely dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus. As the sun begins to set, continue sailing toward Aswan while enjoying dinner and the peaceful atmosphere of the Nile.
Day 9 – March 10: Aswan – Philae Temple & Nubian Village
Today we discover the beauty and slower pace of Aswan, one of Egypt's most charming cities. Begin with a scenic boat ride to Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis and carefully relocated to higher ground after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. In the afternoon, enjoy a special visit to a traditional Nubian village, known for its colorful homes and warm hospitality. Learn about Nubian culture, traditions, music, and daily life while experiencing a different side of Egypt far from the busy cities. Return to the cruise ship for dinner and a relaxing final evening onboard.
Day 10 – March 11: Wadi al-Natrun: Early Christianity & the Desert Fathers
After breakfast, journey to Wadi al-Natrun, one of the great centers of early Christian monasticism. Visit St. Macarius Monastery, whose roots reach back to the fourth century, and learn about the Desert Fathers and Mothers and the development of Christian monastic life in Egypt. Reflect on the tradition of the Holy Family’s journey through this region and discover how Egypt became one of the most important centers of early Christianity. Later, return to Cairo and enjoy time at Khan el-Khalili Bazaar before gathering for a farewell dinner and reflecting on our journey of faith, history, and culture through Egypt.
Day 11 – March 12: Departure from Cairo
Early this morning, transfer to Cairo International Airport for your flight home. As we depart Egypt, we carry with us unforgettable memories of ancient wonders, meaningful faith experiences, new friendships, and the timeless beauty of the Nile.
