Yoga. World Travel. Bliss.

Egypt Yoga Retreat

August 6-17, 2023

SOLD OUT!

Registration is now closed. Stay tuned for future dates in 2024

12 days and 11 nights in the mystical and magical land of the pyramids. This is a trip of a lifetime! In addition to the immaculately curated itinerary below, we will enjoy yoga & meditation practice once or twice daily guided by Jaina, Philosophy-movement workshops with Uschi Gibson, and optional readings with Jill Loftis of Nuit Astrology. We will also have a highly experienced local Egyptian guide on our tour of the country.

Experience Traditional Hatha and Raja Yoga within the majestic landscape and backdrops of perhaps the most mysterious and significant megalithic structure in the world. Our yoga practices will be woven with the beautiful mythology and histories of ancient Egypt. All levels of Yoga experience welcome.

What’s Included?

Accommodations

Hotels (8 nts), Nile cruise boat (3 nts).

Meals

11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners

Allow USD 300-390 for meals not included. This is a great opportunity to cruise around town and find restaurants and shops of the beaten path in smaller groups.

Transportation

Private air-conditioned van, felucca, Nile cruise boat, plane, walking. International airfare is not included.

Staff & Experts

We will have a Certified Egyptologist and local guide throughout our tour. We are traveling with G-adventures, a fantastic tour service that will coordinate all of our lodging, ground travel, and museum tours.

More about your Retreat Guides:

Jaina

“The Great Pyramids of Egypt feel at once like the most important historical relic of humankind, and an outer space final frontier. The rich human-history and mystery, buried in the sands of this land, and in the walls of these temples are incomprehensible. Egypt points right at the heart of our human existence…. inspiring existential questions, cosmic consciousness, and the after-life. I look forward to weaving together our movement and yoga practices. With the spirits of the land, sea, and skies of ancient Egypt. This is a trip of a lifetime, not to be missed”

Uschi

“Many of you know I’ve had a lifelong connection to Egypt since meeting many of the old Theosophists in my childhood. They shared stories of their travels to Egypt in the 1920’s and 30’s, and sparked my fascination and connection to this culture so many moons ago.  My heart and soul connection to the Goddesses and Gods of this ancient civilization is what I look forward to sharing with you during the journey, as well as some of the stories of the Nubian priestesses who were part of the royal court, acting as healers and mystics.  The entire journey is hosted by a company Jaina has worked with in other countries, meaning we can relax and enjoy all of the highlights of this itinerary without having to manage any details. I’ll be leading a few workshops throughout the week, and can’t wait to share my love for this ancient civilization.”

We are also thrilled to welcome Jill Loftis of Nuit Astrology, who will offer optional Astrology readings throughout the week.

Investment

Investment: $3,499 per person shared room / $4178 private room

*Please note that if you have booked the “private room” option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops. Shared rooms will have one roommate with individual beds (your choice, or assigned)

Deposit of $1000 is required to reserve your spot. Final payment due 90 days before departure (May 1, 2023). Payments can be made via Venmo @Jaina-Portwood or Paypal. Please select “friends and family” to avoid fees.

Have more questions or ready to reserve your spot?

Email jaina@belovedretreats.com

 International flight info: Fly into and out of Cairo (arrive anytime on August 6 and depart anytime August 17)

Refund Policy and Covid Details can be found here.

Additional costs: select meals (noted below), international airfare, initial ground transportation from airport to Cairo, travel Insurance (details below), tipping, add on excursions of your choice.

Itinerary

Day 1 Cairo

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included.

If you arrive early there are plenty of things to see and do in this amazing city. Visit the Saladin Citadel of Cairo one of the most popular attractions in the city, or to really get a feel for the place, get lost in the bazaars and join the locals for a coffee in a local cafe.

Arrival Transfer

Cairo International Airport – Cairo 1h-1h30m

You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.

Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Egyptian Guide and Group

Your opportunity to meet your guides and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don’t forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Day 2 Cairo/Alexandria

Embark on a guided tour of the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Continue to the historic Mediterranean city of Alexandria.

We begin with one of the key highlights of any visit to Egypt, the Great Pyramids of Giza. While once located in remote desert, they now touch the suburbs of modern Cairo. Also visit the mysterious Sphinx, with its lion’s body and man’s face. In the afternoon we drive to Alexandria, where we will spend the next two evenings.

Great Pyramid of Giza and Sphinx Tour

Cairo

Enjoy a tour of the magnificent great pyramid of Giza and the Sphinx. No matter how many photos or documentaries you have seen, the first glimpse of these marvels of the ancient world will take your breath away. As a qualified Egyptologist, your CEO has all the facts about these massive structures.

Private Vehicle

Cairo – Alexandria 2h30m-2h30m 220km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Meals included:

 Breakfast

Day 3 Alexandria

Spend the day exploring this ancient seaside city, including Pompey’s Pillar, the catacombs, and the new Alexandria Library. In the afternoon opt to explore the city further on a guided tour, or see the sights at your own pace. It’s up to you!

We have plenty of time to explore all the incredible sites this ancient city has to offer. Founded by Alexander the Great around 331BC, Egypt’s only Mediterranean city is characterized by a distinctly European atmosphere and a refreshing sea breeze. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy an optional seafood dinner at one of the city’s many outdoor seaside restaurants this evening.

Pompey’s Pillar Visit

Alexandria

The name “Pompey’s Pillar” is actually a misnomer, as it has nothing to do with Pompey, having been erected in 293 for Emperor Diocletian, possibly in memory of the rebellion of Domitius Domitianus.

Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa Visit

Alexandria

These tombs were tunneled into the bedrock in the age of the Antonine Emperors (2nd century AD) for a single wealthy family still practicing the ancient religion of Egypt. They represent the last existing major construction of the old Egyptian religion.

Alexandria Library Visit

Alexandria 1h

The Ancient Library of Alexandria was probably the largest and certainly the most famous of the libraries of the ancient world. It flourished during Greek rule and functioned as a major centre of scholarship, at least until the time of the Roman conquest of Egypt, and probably for many centuries thereafter. The old library was destroyed in a fire around the 1st century BC. The magnificent new library was opened in 2002 very close to the site of the ancient one.

Private Vehicle

Alexandria

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Day 3 Optinoal Add-0n


Alexandria City Tour

50USD per person

Explore Alexandria on a guided tour of the city, visit the famous Citadel of Quait bay where Alexandria Lighthouse used to be and was considered one of the wonders of the ancient world followed by a photo stop at Abu El Abbas mosque and the Unknown Soldier and finally an opportunity to walk around Alexandria busiest streets and explore the heart of the mediterranean city.

Meals included:

 Breakfast

Day 4 Alexandria/Cairo

Head back to Cairo, and stop for a tour inside the monasteries of Wadi Natrun en route. In the afternoon explore the treasures of the Egyptian Museum.

Please note that you should be modestly dressed this morning with shoulders and knees covered for our visit to the monastery.

Private Vehicle

Alexandria – Cairo 2h30m-2h30m 220km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Monasteries of Wadi Natrun Visit

Cairo

Take a tour with a local monk at the the monasteries of Wadi Natrun. The history of the Wadi and its importance to Coptic Christians dates back to the 4th century AD and they constitute some of the earliest Christian monasteries in the world.

Egyptian Museum

Cairo 4h

With over 10,000 pieces from every period of Egyptian history, including the treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun, this massive museum is a fantastic place to learn about the country. There is plenty of free time for you to explore on your own. Please note, there is an additional 50 EGP fee to take photos in the museum.

Meals included:

 Breakfast

Day 5 Cairo/Aswān

Catch an early morning flight to Aswan. Opt to explore the busy Aswan market or visit the beautiful Philae Temple. Later, take a scenic felucca ride on the Nile to a Nubian village and enjoy a home cooked dinner with locals.

Aswan has a distinctively African feel to it. Small enough to walk around and graced with the most beautiful setting on the Nile, the pace of life is slow and relaxing.

Late in the afternoon, board a local boat, known as a felucca, to take a trip along the Nile. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the river in this busy port city. Our final stop is on the largest of the Nile islands in this area to enjoy a traditional dinner at a local home.

Free Time

Aswān Morning

Spend time strolling up and down the broad Corniche watching the sailboats etch the sky with their tall masts, or sitting in floating restaurants listening to Nubian music and eating fresh fish.

Your Local Living Moment: Boat ride to Nubian Village with Traditional Meal

Board a local boat, to take a trip along the magnificent Nile, with views of the Aga Khan Mausoleum and Kitchener Island. Stop on one of the inhabited Nile islands in this area, to tour a local Nubian village. Walk through the village and fields and learn more about the life of the Nubian people before enjoying a delicious traditional dinner at a local home.

Day 5 Optional Activities


Philae Temple Visit

Aswān

50USD per person

Sail across the Nile to the beautiful island of Agilkia and explore the Greco Roman history of the Temple of Philae, built as a dedication to the Goddess Isis. This temple complex was moved from its original location on the Island of Philae after the flooding of Lake Nasser, the word “philae” meaning “the end” in reference to this island’s placement on what was once the southernmost border of Egypt.

Visit the Souk

Aswān1h-3h

Free

Explore the Souk at your leisure, soaking in the scent and colour of spices and perfumes, and rummaging through beautiful scarves and baskets.

Meals included:

 Breakfast | Dinner

Day 6 Aswān

Early in the morning, drive to the famed temples of Abu Simbel for a guided tour. Later, board our river cruise ship for the night.

Private Vehicle

Aswān – Abu Simbel 3h15m Morning 288km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Temple of Abu Simbel Visit

Aswān 8h

Part historic monument and part modern marvel, Abu Simbel is one of Egypt’s grandest temples. Built during the rule of Ramses the II this structure was almost swallowed by the Nile, but now stands safe and sound thanks to some crafty archaeologists and UNESCO. Travel through Egypt’s rugged landscapes and the towering figures of Ramses himself, Ra-Horakhty, Amun, and Ptah will all be waiting to welcome you.

Private Vehicle

Abu Simbel – Aswān 3h15m Afternoon288km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

3-night Nile Cruise

Aswān – Luxor 72h 300km

Enjoy floating down the Nile on a luxury river boat with a guided tour of Kom Ombo Temple en route. In between excursions, relax on the outside decks with a drink, watching the passing desert sands.

Day 6 Optional Activities

Philae Temple Sound and Light Show

Aswān

70USD per person

As the sun sets, sail across the Nile to Philae island. Watch the Philae Temple turn into a time machine through a magnificent sound and light display.

Meals included:

 Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 7 Aswān/Kom Ombo

Spend your day floating down the Nile on a luxury river boat with a guided tour of Kom Ombo Temple en route. Relax on the outside decks, watching the passing desert sands and enjoying the scenery

Following breakfast, we set sail. Before too long it is time for our first shore excursion, with a visit to Kom Ombo, a temple dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god. It still contains an ancient mummified crocodile.

3-night Nile Cruise

Aswān – Luxor72h300km

Enjoy floating down the Nile on a luxury river boat with a guided tour of Kom Ombo Temple en route. In between excursions, relax on the outside decks, watching the passing desert sands.

Kom Ombo Temple Visit

Kom Ombo1h-2h

Enjoy a visit to this temple located in a scenic spot, right on the banks of the Nile. It was dedicated to the crocodile god, and you can still see the remains of an ancient mummified crocodile that was worshipped here thousands of years ago. Please note, there is an additional 50 EGP fee to take photos in the Crocodile museum.

Free Time

Kom Ombo

Enjoy some time relaxing onboard our Nile river boat.

Meals included:

 Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 8 Kom Ombo/Luxor

Continuing cruising the Nile, relaxing and taking in the desert scenery while observing daily life along the river. Arrive to Luxor in the evening.

Our boat will moor overnight just outside of Luxor this evening.
However, please note that sometimes a different ship is used and when this is the case the group will arrive in Luxor earlier on Day 8 and therefore will visit the Luxor Temple after arriving. Day 10 will still include a visit to Karnak Temple.

3-night Nile Cruise

Aswān – Luxor 72h 300km

Enjoy floating down the Nile on a luxury river boat with a guided tour of Kom Ombo Temple en route. In between excursions, relax on the outside decks with a drink, watching the passing desert sands.

Free Time

Luxor

Sit up on the deck and relax, watching the Nile landscapes.

Meals included:

 Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 9 Luxor

Enjoy a guided visit to the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. Enjoy lunch with a local family on the West Bank of the Nile.

After checking in to our hotel, our day starts with a visit to the exciting ancient sites located on Luxor’s West Bank and the famed Valley of the Kings.Afterwards, enjoy a traditional lunch in a local family home.

Private Vehicle

Luxor

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple and Colossi of Memnon Visit

Luxor6h-7h

Rise early to catch the sunrise as you cross the Nile to the west bank, passing through farmers fields on your way to the Valley of the Kings.

Descend the narrow, rock-hewn corridors and take in the magnificent decoration and designs of the tombs of the pharaohs. While the treasure has now all gone, the tombs contain the incredible paintings of the life of their incumbent and stories from the Book of the Dead.

Continue on to visit to the impressive Funerary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, which seems to rise out of the surrounding limestone outcrops – a reminder of the power women held in the Ancient Kingdom. End the day with a stop at the two mammoth statues of Amenophis II at the Colossi of Memnon. Please note, there is an additional 300 EGP fee to take photos in the Valley Of Kings.

Your Local Living Moment: Lunch with a Local Family

Sit down to a traditional lunch with a local family on the West bank of the Nile.

Meals included:

 Breakfast | Lunch

Day 10 Luxor

Enjoy an excursion to the magnificent temples of Karnak and Luxor. In the afternoon, use free time to explore the bazaar, museums or opt to take a guided tour of the temples of Habu, Ramsseum and Deir El Medina.

Private Vehicle

Luxor

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Karnak Temple Visit

Luxor3h-4h

Enjoy a visit to the Karnak Temple, which was once the centre of all religious life in ancient Egypt. Built and extended by successive generations of rulers, admire the amazing architecture, massive columns, and painted hieroglyphs.

Luxor Temple Visit

Luxor

Take in the beauty of the Luxor temple, an architectural splendour located near the Nile and right in the centre of downtown Luxor. One of Egypt’s most impressive temples, Luxor has been used as a place of worship all the way from it’s conception in 1390 BC to present day. Evidence of ancient worship, Coptic Christianity and Islamic architecture are found throughout the temple, illustrating how the regional culture has evolved over several thousand years.

Day 10 Optional Activities


Explore Luxor in Depth Tour

Luxor75USD per person

For those who wish to explore Luxor in depth, this morning excursion allow you to go back to the west bank and explore more sites of Luxor city including the beautiful temples of Habu, Ramesseum and Deir El Medina.

Meals included:

 Breakfast

Day 11 Luxor/Cairo

Catch a flight back to Cairo and enjoy another day exploring this wonderful city. Visit the bazaar, any museums you missed or opt to explore nearby Sakkara and Memphis on a guided tour.

Plane

Luxor Airport – Cairo International Airport 1h

Free Time

Cairo

Explore Cairo on your own or take an optional tour.

Day 11 Optional Activities

Explore Memphis and Sakkara

Cairo4h-5h 70USD per person

Travel through desert and farm lands to Sakkara the site of Egypt’s first pyramids. Delve into the history of one of Egypt’s most important archeological sites before continuing on to explore the streets of Memphis, the ancient capital of Aneb-Hetch.

Meals included:

 Breakfast

Day 12 Cairo

Depart at any time.

Please note that check-out time from the hotel is normally mid-morning, but luggage storage facilities are available. We are able to organize extra post-trip accommodation if you wish to extend your stay for a few more days.

Meals included:

 Breakfast

Extra add-ons

These extras can be booked in advance.
 

Explore Memphis and Sakkara – From $70.00

Travel through desert and farm lands to Sakkara the site of Egypt’s first pyramids. Delve into the history of one of Egypt’s most important archeological sites before continuing on to explore the streets of Memphis, the ancient capital of Aneb-Hetch.

Islamic and Coptic Cairo Tour – From $60.00

Explore Cairo’s fascinating architectural, cultural, and historical contrasts on a tour of Coptic and Islamic Cairo. Visit of the iconic Citadel of Saladin, the Mohamed Ali Mosque, the Hanging Church, St. Sergius Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue.

Philae Temple Visit – From $50.00

Sail across the Nile to the beautiful island of Agilkia and explore the Greco Roman history of the Temple of Philae, built as a dedication to the Goddess Isis. This temple complex was moved from its original location on the Island of Philae after the flooding of Lake Nasser, the word “philae” meaning “the end” in reference to this island’s placement on what was once the southernmost border of Egypt.

Airport to Hotel Transfer:

For 1 person arriving alone: $70 per person

For 2 people arriving on the SAME flight: $60 per person

For 3 people or more arriving on the SAME flight: $55 per person

Pre Accommodation Pricing will be available closer to departure.

Note: Price and availability of Extras are subject to change. Price is secured once the service is booked and confirmed.

Required Travel Insurance

Individual Travel Insurance is required for this trip. It is mandatory for all of our travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000 USD we also strongly recommend purchasing an all-inclusive plan that covers cancellation/interruption insurance as well. We recommend this site: Jon Hancock Travel Insurance

https://www.johnhancocktravel.com/

Ready to save your spot?

Deposit of $1000 per person is required to hold your reservation. Final balance is due 90 days before departure (May 7, 2023). Pay by Venmo, Paypal, or check. Email jaina@belovedretreats.com. Please note whether you want a roommate or a private room. Welcome to an experience of a lifetime!

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