Best of Egypt with WND Synod

Overview

Join Bishop Craig Schweitzer and the Western North Dakota Synod on an unforgettable journey to Egypt — a land where ancient wonders and vibrant culture come to life.

Stand in awe before the Pyramids of Giza, sail along the majestic Nile River, and wander through temples that have stood for thousands of years. Feel the pulse of Cairo’s bustling bazaars, marvel at sweeping desert landscapes, and, if you wish, unwind along the pristine shores of the Red Sea.

Discover Egypt’s deep Christian heritage as you visit historic Coptic churches, including the Hanging Church and the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus—believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their time in Egypt—as well as the sacred St. Catherine’s Monastery at the foot of Mount Sinai.

From exploring its pharaonic treasures to savoring the bold flavors of Egyptian cuisine, every moment in this captivating country will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

DETAILS:

• Trip departs on January 22, 2027 and returns on January 31, 2027

PRICING:

• $3,790.00 per person based on double occupancy (Land Only)
• Single room supplement - $790.00

PAYMENT PLAN: 

• $300.00 deposit per person with registration to secure space
• Balance due on or before September 26, 2026

REGISTRATION:

• Registering online?  CLICK HERE and fill out the online form; you can pay by check or with a credit card (a nonrefundable 4% platform fee applies)
• Registering by mail? Please download and complete the registration form (both the personal information page and the terms and conditions page signed at the bottom) with a copy of your passport and a deposit of $300.00 per person made payable to Elias Tours and mailed to 4941 Chalden Ln NE, Marietta, GA 30066

FLIGHT SCHEDULE:

Flight cost and itinerary will be posted in March 2026.

* Flight times, flight numbers, equipment, gates, and seats are subject to change. For the most current information check the airline website.

What makes this tour special

**Cairo:** the vibrant capital city of Egypt, stands as a timeless beacon of history, culture, and resilience. Nestled along the legendary Nile River, Cairo pulsates with the energy of its bustling streets, where ancient monuments coexist harmoniously with modern skyscrapers.

One cannot help but be mesmerized by Cairo's architectural wonders, from the iconic pyramids of Giza to the majestic Sphinx, each a testament to the grandeur of ancient civilizations. The city's labyrinthine alleys lead to vibrant bazaars, where the aroma of spices mingles with the sounds of bargaining, creating an unforgettable sensory experience.

Cairo is not merely a city frozen in time; it is a thriving metropolis where the past meets the present. Museums such as the Egyptian Museum house treasures that unveil the mysteries of pharaonic Egypt, while contemporary art galleries showcase the city's vibrant creative scene.

Yet, perhaps the most enchanting aspect of Cairo is its people—warm, hospitable, and proud of their heritage. Whether sipping tea in a traditional café or strolling along the Nile promenade, visitors are greeted with smiles that reflect Cairo's enduring spirit.

In Cairo, time seems to flow differently, merging the ancient with the modern, the past with the present, creating an unforgettable tapestry of culture, history, and life.

**Luxor:** often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, is a captivating destination nestled along the banks of the Nile River in southern Egypt. Renowned for its unparalleled wealth of ancient monuments, Luxor stands as a testament to the magnificence of ancient Egyptian civilization.

At the heart of Luxor lies the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, a sprawling sanctuary dedicated to the god Amun-Ra, where towering columns and intricately carved hieroglyphs transport visitors back in time. Nearby, the majestic Luxor Temple illuminated against the night sky, evokes a sense of wonder and reverence.

No visit to Luxor is complete without exploring the West Bank, home to the legendary Valley of the Kings. Here, amidst the stark desert landscape, lie the tombs of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Ramses II, adorned with elaborate wall paintings that depict scenes from the afterlife.

Beyond its archaeological treasures, Luxor offers a wealth of cultural experiences, from traditional markets teeming with vibrant textiles and spices to tranquil felucca rides along the Nile at sunset. The city's bustling streets pulse with life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors.

In Luxor, history comes alive, beckoning travelers on a journey of discovery through the storied corridors of ancient Egypt. With each step, one cannot help but be captivated by the timeless allure of this extraordinary city on the banks of the Nile.

**Aswan:** nestled along the serene banks of the Nile River in southern Egypt, exudes a tranquil charm that sets it apart as a captivating destination. Known as the "Jewel of the Nile," Aswan boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that beckons travelers from around the world.

At the heart of Aswan lies the magnificent Aswan High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering that has tamed the mighty Nile and provided vital irrigation and electricity to the region. Nearby, the serene waters of Lake Nasser stretch into the horizon, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the desert landscape.

One of Aswan's most iconic landmarks is the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis and steeped in ancient mythology. Accessible by boat, this picturesque temple complex transports visitors to a bygone era with its graceful colonnades, towering pylons, and beautifully preserved reliefs.

Aswan is also renowned for its vibrant Nubian culture, which is celebrated in colorful festivals, lively music, and intricately crafted handicrafts. Visitors can explore the Nubian villages scattered along the riverbanks, where friendly locals welcome guests with warm hospitality and stories of their ancient heritage.

For those seeking adventure, Aswan offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from leisurely felucca cruises to exhilarating camel treks through the desert. And as the sun sets over the golden sands, the vibrant hues of the sky reflect off the tranquil waters of the Nile, casting a magical glow over this timeless city.

In Aswan, time seems to slow down, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the beauty of its landscapes, the richness of its history, and the warmth of its people. Whether exploring ancient temples, cruising along the Nile, or simply savoring the tranquility of its surroundings, visitors to Aswan are sure to be captivated by its timeless allure.

**St. Catherine's Monastery:** located at the foot of Mount Sinai in Egypt, is one of the oldest functioning Christian monasteries in the world. Built in the 6th century, it was commissioned by Emperor Justinian and is revered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery is famous for its ancient library, housing one of the largest collections of early manuscripts and codices, second only to the Vatican. It is also home to the Burning Bush, believed to be where God spoke to Moses, according to biblical tradition. A site of great spiritual, historical, and architectural significance, it remains an active center of worship and pilgrimage.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Jan 28: Departure from USA

Begin your adventure as you depart for Egypt, a land of timeless wonders and spiritual depth.

Day 2 – Jan 22: Arrival in Cairo

Arrive in Cairo. After airport assistance, transfer to your hotel and enjoy dinner.
Highlight: Cairo—Africa’s largest city—is where ancient history meets modern hustle and sacred traditions.

Day 3 – Jan 23: Pyramids of Giza & Grand Egyptian Museum

After breakfast, visit the Great Pyramids of Giza and the iconic Sphinx. Enjoy lunch, then explore the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum, home to thousands of ancient artifacts including the treasures of King Tutankhamun.
Highlight: Stand before the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World and walk through one of the most impressive museums on the planet.

Day 4 – Jan 24: Coptic Cairo

Visit the sacred Christian sites in Old Cairo, including the Church of Saint George, Saint Barbara, Abu Serga (where the Holy Family is believed to have stayed), and the Hanging Church. Lunch included, with dinner back at the hotel.
Highlight: Step into some of the earliest Christian landmarks in the world and connect with Egypt’s rich spiritual heritage.

Day 5 – Jan 25: Flight to Luxor & Start of Nile Cruise

Early morning flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, transfer to your 5★ Nile cruise ship and check in before lunch. In the afternoon, visit Luxor Temple and the vast Karnak Temple complex.
Highlight: Walk among the towering columns and sacred sanctuaries of ancient Thebes, once the spiritual center of the pharaohs.

Day 6 – Jan 26: West Bank of Luxor & Sail to Esna

Explore the West Bank of Luxor: visit the Colossi of Memnon, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut (Egypt’s powerful female pharaoh), and enjoy lunch on board. Begin sailing south, passing through the Esna lock en route to Edfu.
Highlight: Stand in awe before grand temples carved into cliffs and watch daily life unfold along the Nile.

Day 7 – Jan 27: Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples

Visit the Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon god Horus—one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples. Continue sailing to Kom Ombo and visit its unique twin temple dedicated to Sobek (crocodile god) and Horus.
Highlight: Discover myth, medicine, and mummified crocodiles in Egypt’s remarkable riverside temples.

Day 8 – Jan 28: Philae Temple & Nubian Village (Aswan)

Take a motorboat to visit Philae Temple, beautifully located on an island and dedicated to the goddess Isis. Then, visit a colorful Nubian village to experience local hospitality before returning to your cruise.
Highlight: Feel the grace of ancient love stories and the warmth of Nubian culture—all in one day.

Day 9 – Jan 29: Travel to St. Catherine (Sinai)

Fly to Cairo, then drive across the dramatic Sinai Peninsula. Stop for lunch by the Red Sea in Ras Sudr before arriving at St. Catherine’s Guest House. Dinner and overnight stay.
Highlight: Journey across sacred landscapes to one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world.

Day 10 – Jan 30: Mount Sinai & St. Catherine’s Monastery

At 1:00 AM, begin the climb up Mount Sinai to watch the sunrise from its summit—where Moses is believed to have received the Ten Commandments. After descending, enjoy breakfast and visit St. Catherine’s Monastery. Drive back to Cairo for overnight.
Highlight: A spiritual moment at the top of Sinai—an unforgettable sunrise in one of the most meaningful places on Earth.

Day 11 – Jan 31: Departure – Back to the USA

Fly back home, ending your journey enriched with deep faith, ancient history, and unforgettable experiences.