2026, 2027 and 2028
2028 will be available shortly.
Please email sales@westoetravel.co.uk to join our priority waitlist
Solar Eclipse Cruise 2026 – Iceland’s Land of Ice & Fire
8 August 2026 -14 days from £2,479pp
Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience a total solar eclipse!
During a total solar eclipse, the Moon entirely covers the Sun, revealing the Sun's outer atmosphere, the corona, in a breathtaking display. The sky darkens and stars and planets become visible, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Join us on a thrilling adventure to witness a total solar eclipse from our cruise ship, Ambition, in the most spectacular of settings. With its dramatic scenery and diverse natural attractions, Iceland is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Beyond the eclipse, Iceland's rugged, windswept beauty provides an astonishing backdrop for the event. From spectacular glaciers, geysers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and coastal scenery, there is so much to see as we weave our way through the Faroe Islands and make our way to the Eclipse viewing point off the coast of Greenland. From here we continue to Reykjavik, Seydisfjordur and Lerwick in our search for the Aurora Borealis.
This unique cruise will be accompanied by astronomer, astrophotographer and Sky at Night TV presenter Pete Lawrence. Of course, the main event and focus of this trip is the magnificent solar eclipse and on the day of this phenomenon, with Pete’s expert advice, we are taken into the path of ‘totality’, close to the centre line of the eclipse shadow track. This will be at a location chosen to give us our best chance of clear skies. Pete will give various presentations and advice during the cruise too and we also enjoy educational lectures from the knowledgeable expedition team.
EXCLUSIVE EXTRAS
Complimentary return coach transfers to Dundee Port from your local pick-up
Exclusive presentations with Pete Lawrence
Additional dinner in the Holyrood Restaurant
A hosted cocktail party
Full tour inclusions:
13 nights on-board Ambition with daily cabin service
Ports of call Runavik, Faroe Islands, Reykjavik, Grundarfjordur, Seydisfjordur & Lerwick, Shetland Isles
Welcome to the Eclipse Cruise Presentation
Accompanied viewing of the Eclipse with Pete Lawrence including guidance on photography
3-nights of stargazing in search of the Aurora Borealis with Pete Lawrence
Farewell Presentation
All meals (breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea & dinner) included during the cruise
A wide range of entertainment on board including evening shows, plays, cabarets & live music
Onboard daytime activities, quizzes, dance classes and deck games
Range of fitness, dance & wellness classes
Spa access – use of gym, swimming pools & hot tubs.
Porterage between port and cabin
Ambassador Expedition (Premium) Drinks package
Gratuities & Service for the duration of your cruise
Full Itinerary
Saturday 8th August 2026 Coach pickup to Dundee for Embarkation
From a morning pickup in your local area, we travel by coach to Dundee Port to board the cruise ship Ambition for our special voyage. After embarkation, there’s time to settle into your cabin. This evening, we get to know our fellow passengers, friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Iceland.
Meals: Dinner
Sunday 9th August: Onboard Ambition at sea
We head north, up the coast of Scotland with our sights set on the wonderful Faroe Islands. This is the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with Ambition. On deck, enjoy the coastal views or explore the facilities on offer, including a wellness centre, gym, two swimming pools and a range of shops, perfect for peaceful days at sea.
Later, we gather for our ‘Welcome to the Eclipse Cruise Presentation,’ with expert astronomer, Pete Lawrence. Pete explains what to expect when viewing the Eclipse from a moving ship and reviews the weather prospects for a full totality.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Monday 10th August: Runavik, Faroe Islands
As we near our first port, we head to the observation deck, eager for the first view of the rugged coastlines and bright green grass of the beautiful Faroe Islands.
As we approach the Port of Runavik, we are struck by the many different shades of green all around us. The breathtaking Faroe Islands are part of an archipelago of 18 volcanic islands, halfway between Norway and Iceland. The largest settlement on Eysturoy Island, Runavik is nestled along the Skálafjørður fjord. We have the day to explore the charming harbour, see the traditional Faroese fishing boats and stroll through the quaint streets, lined with colourful houses. (something we will see a lot of in Iceland!)
For those interested in history, a visit to the local museums provides a fascinating insight into the rich heritage of the Faroe Islands. Learn about the Viking history, maritime traditions, and the unique way of life that has been preserved over the centuries.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tuesday 11th August: On board Ambition at Sea
The Ambition continues her journey towards Greenland and we enjoy a day at sea taking in the spectacular views and bracing air. In the afternoon, we gather with our expedition team for the Photographing the Eclipse Presentation. Pete demonstrates the best way to take photographs from a moving ship and explains special viewing considerations to improve picture quality. In the evening, we enjoy an Omega Exclusive cocktail party with our expedition members, where discussions about the big day will undoubtedly be the main topic of conversation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wednesday 12th August: Eclipse Viewing Day
Ambition continues toward our viewing position of the south coast of Greenland, (the nearest settlement to this location is called Ittoqqortoormiit).
A further Eclipse presentation this morning from Pete will discuss the weather prospects, timeline and safe viewing advice. Excitement builds as we gather on the deck in anticipation of this once-in-a-lifetime event. Our location offers an expected duration of totality (2 minutes and 15 seconds) In the afternoon, under the watchful eye of Pete, with cameras and special equipment at the ready, weather permitting, we experience the full glory of the total solar eclipse.
During a total solar eclipse, the Moon entirely covers the Sun, revealing the Sun's outer atmosphere, the corona, in a breathtaking display. The sky suddenly darkens, stars and planets become visible, and the temperature drops, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. This experience differs significantly from a partial eclipse, where the sun is only partially obscured, and the dramatic effects of totality are absent.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Thursday 13th August: On board Ambition at Sea
After the thrill of the Solar Eclipse, we enjoy a day at sea and take full advantage of Ambition’s facilities. There is so much to enjoy on our cruise ship! Take in a show in the tiered main theatre or discover your hidden talents in the card room, library or craft studio, there is plenty to discover on board the ‘Second Lady of the Sea.’
In the afternoon we get together with Pete for an Omega Exclusive Presentation a review of past Omega Eclipses.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Friday 14th August: Reykjavik, Iceland
We arrive at Reykjavik in the early hours of the morning. As the northernmost capital in the world, Reykjavik offers a stunning array of natural beauty, including geothermal springs, rugged coastlines and breathtaking views of the Northern Lights.
The city is also famous for its innovative architecture and bustling arts scene. Notable landmarks include the Hallgrímskirkja church, the Harpa Concert Hall and the National Museum of Iceland. All worth a visit. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Reykjavik beckons with its Nordic elegance and Arctic wonders. Take in the stunning architecture of the Hallgrímskirkja church, soak in the nearby Blue Lagoon's geothermal waters and explore the city's vibrant street art scene against a brisk North Atlantic backdrop.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Saturday 15th August: Grundarfjordur, Iceland
After a nighttime cruising, we arrive in the picturesque, fishing town of Grundarfjordur, on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Grundarfjordur is a small town renowned for its dramatic landscapes and stunning natural beauty. It’s a definite must-visit destination and offers simply stunning views of the famous Mt Kirkjufell next to it – often dubbed the most photographed mountain in all of Iceland!
For art enthusiasts, don’t miss the Liston Art Gallery and look for stone sculptures by the town's most famous artist. We would also be remiss in telling you to keep an eye out for the Orca in the middle of Grundarfjordur. This sculpture was created by Unnsteinn Guðmundssonis and modelled after a special male orca named ‘Thunderstorm’.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sunday 16th August: At sea & Aurora Borealis Viewing
On our day at sea, we enjoy all the facilities on offer, there is plenty to fill our time. From viewing the stunning Icelandic landscapes on deck to relaxing in the spa, we are spoilt for choice. This afternoon we take a seat with our expedition group for an Omega Exclusive – The Aurora Borealis Presentation by Pete – explaining where the Aurora comes from, what it looks like and the prospects of seeing this natural phenomenon in the days ahead.
In the late evening, we head to the deck to explore the night sky in search of the Aurora Borealis. This fantastic aerial phenomenon is striking in its otherworldly beauty. From the deck of our ship in Iceland, we’ll head outside to acquaint ourselves with the night sky and what lies ahead on the cruise.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Monday 17th August: Seydisfjordur, Iceland
We spend a day exploring Seydisfjordur, a small town nestled at the end of a long fjord, considered to be one of Iceland’s’ cultural centres. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the colourful wooden houses stand out. In the summer months, the town is alive with visitors, the atmosphere quirky yet peaceful, with most eyes fixed on the iconic blue church at the end of the street, Seyðisfjarðarkirkja.
Tonight, we join our expedition members and Pete for another Omega Exclusive presentation on The Aurora Borealis. We gather, cameras at the ready for Pete to show and explain to us the best ways to photograph the Aurora Borealis. Later, we join all passengers on deck and look to the stars, for a second night of stargazing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tuesday 18th August: On board Ambition at Sea
Ambition continues its southeasterly heading towards the Shetland Islands. As we journey across the seas, we have time once more to enjoy the facilities our cruise ship has to offer.
After a full day of relaxation and pleasure, we change into our best clothes for an exclusive Omega event – Dinner in the Holyrood Restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wednesday 19th August: Lerwick, Shetland Isles, UK
The last stop on our cruise is Lerwick, the main town of the archipelago and just 222 miles from Bergen in Norway. While it was established in the 17th century to service Dutch herring and white fish fleets, the majority of the waterfront buildings date from the 18th century. The wooden huts which once stood here were burned twice, firstly by the angry residents of Scalloway who were displeased with fishermen’s ‘immorality’, then again later on by a French fleet.
Nowadays, Lerwick plays host to Up Helly Aa, an annual Viking fire festival, which marks the end of Yule season and culminates in the visually striking burning of a Viking galley ship. The town also had a starring role in the BBC series, Shetland, and its atmospheric streets made famous by DI Jimmy Perez are perfect for a leisurely wander.
In the late evening, we join our fellow passengers on deck for a third night of stargazing in the hope of seeing the wonderful Aurora Borealis appear across the night sky.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Thursday 20th August: At sea
We wake up to enjoy our last day aboard the Ambition, a last chance to enjoy all the facilities on board. Whether you fancy a relaxing spa treatment, entertainment or some quiet time in the library reflecting on the past day’s events, there is plenty to do.
In the afternoon we gather for a presentation for all passengers, one last gathering and farewell. Although it is sad to see our expedition come to an end, we have undoubtedly made new friends and have memories to last a lifetime. We raise a glass of fizz to future Omega events and look forward to our next adventure together.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Friday 21st August: Disembark & Edinburgh
In the morning, we arrive in Dundee and after breakfast, disembark. We say farewell to the Ambition and board the coach for our journey home.
Meals: Breakfast
An upgrade to the Ambassador Fare package is available for an additional £519pp. This includes Ambassador Expedition (Premium) Drinks and gratuities & service for the duration of your cruise. All inclusions:
Gratuities & service charges
Premium wines
Premium drinks from the bar
Premium teas & speciality coffees
House wines
House brands from the bar
Choice of 1st or 2nd dining sitting for dinner
From £2,999pp based on inside cabin
Upgraded cabins available
Flight option available from selected airports from £3,499pp
Deposit £750pp
Balance due by 15 March 2026
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Eclipse 2027 – Egypt’s Ancient Luxor Odyssey 8 Days by Air
July 29th 2027 from £4,249pp
Experience the 2027 Eclipse in Luxor, Egypt on this once-in-a-lifetime, eight-day odyssey! An epic adventure awaits in Luxor, the site of Ancient Thebes, which promises to be the most extraordinary spot to view the total solar eclipse directly overhead the west bank of the Nile. We combine this truly awesome spectacle with an exploration of Ancient Egypt, with guided tours to some of the most magnificent temples, such as Karnak Temple, Esna Temple, Dendera Temple and the resting place of the Pharaohs – the Valley of the Kings.
Astronomer, astrophotographer and the BBCs Sky at Night TV presenter, Pete Lawrence, will be travelling with us for the duration of the tour, sharing his insight and knowledge of what to expect and how best to photograph the eclipse. With private group talks and guided tours throughout, 2027 will be the longest eclipse of the century, where at the centreline an astonishing 6 minutes and 24 seconds is expected. With Pete’s expert advice we are taken into the path of ‘totality’ for a holiday experience like no other!
Includes
Return flights to Luxor via Cairo
Airport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)
Airport transfers in Egypt
7 nights at the Iberotel Hotel, Luxor (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast
Pre and post eclipse presentations with Pete Lawrence
Travel to/from our dedicated Luxor eclipse site for the eclipse experience (includes safety viewing glasses)
Guided tours of the Valley of the Kings and Queens, Great Karnak Temple, Esna Temple & Dendera Temple
Guided nighttime tour of illuminated Luxor Temple
Sunset felucca cruise on the River Nile
Tour accompanied throughout by astronomer Pete Lawrence
Services of a tour manager
Gratuities not included
Itinerary
July 29th – Arrival in Egypt & Luxor
We fly from London Heathrow to Cairo International Airport and take an onward flight to Luxor. On arrival, we are met by our local airport representative who assists us through passport control and accompanies us to the hotel. After check-in, we enjoy dinner at our hotel.
July 30th – Valley of the Kings & Queens Tour
After an early breakfast we embark on a highlight of the trip, a guided tour of the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple and the Valley of the Queens. For nearly 500 years in Luxor, Egypt, from the Eighteenth Dynasty to the Twentieth, this area was the principal burial place for royal figures and Pharaohs. The vast area is divided into sections – the East Valley, where we find most of the royal tombs, and the West Valley, also known as the Valley of the Monkeys. Archaeologists have excavated many tombs over the years, and arguably the most famous was the tomb of the young Tutankhamun.
In the afternoon, we return to the hotel for time at leisure to relax by the hotel pool. In the evening, we enjoy a welcome presentation by renowned astronomer Pete Lawrence, followed by dinner.
July 31st – Great Karnak Temple & Luxor Temple Exploration
We start the day with an early breakfast and then head out for a tour of the impressive Great Karnak Temple. This huge site was the main religious place of worship for the god Amun-Re and consists of temples, chapels, and a variety of other buildings, constructed by one Pharaoh after the other, each adding more and more structures to create one massive temple complex. Our guided tour explores the Hypostyle Hall – which features 134 massive columns, arranged in 16 rows.
In the afternoon we return to the hotel for time at leisure. Then, before sunset, we embark on a special night tour of the illuminated Luxor Temple, dating back to 1400 BC and one of the most significant sites of the ancient world. Afterwards, we enjoy dinner at our hotel.
August 1st – Esna Temple Excursion
After an early breakfast, we depart for the magnificent Esna Temple, south of Luxor. Built over 3000 years ago, the Esna Temple, which means ‘the city of the Fish,’ was dedicated to the god of creation, Khnum, and was considered to be the source of the River Nile. Inside we find many symbols of this fascinating civilisation, including carved hieroglyphs and sculptures. We enjoy a guided tour of the Temple before returning to our hotel for a presentation with Pete Lawrence followed by dinner.
August 2nd – Eclipse Viewing Day
After breakfast, we head to our eclipse viewing site near Luxor Temple. Pete Lawrence is on hand to provide photography tips and insight. Every 18 years and 11 days, the Saros Cycle series 136 occurs and has up until now produced some of the longest eclipses, notably an incredible 6 minute 38.86 seconds in 2009 – and eclipse chasers are expecting the 2027 phenomenon to be a truly awesome spectacle. Afterwards, we return to our hotel for dinner and much discussion about the eclipse!
August 3rd – Luxor
After breakfast, we spend time at leisure in Luxor. There is much to see and admire around the bustling metropolis, from the stunning architecture that reflects the city’s ancient history to various historic buildings. Later, we enjoy an evening cruise on the Nile River on a traditional felucca. This Egyptian sailboat has been used for thousands of years to traverse the Nile, and we should be treated to the most spectacular sunset views of the city from the relaxing comfort of our boat.
After our cruise on the Nile, we return to our hotel for dinner.
August 4th – Visit to Dendera Temple
We start the day with an early breakfast and then head to the impressively large Dendera Temple. Here we discover many historic structures such as a basilica, a sacred lake and many temples and shrines. The site also contains the Temple of Hathor, one of ancient Egypt’s best-preserved sites. We enjoy a post eclipse presentation, recapping the events and sharing images of the day of the Eclipse.
August 5th – Departure
We check out of our hotel and transfer to Luxor Airport for our flight to Cairo and onward flight to Heathrow.
Hotel
Iberotel Hotel, Luxor (JG4 rating)
The Iberotel Luxor is positioned on the River Nile, close to Luxor Temple and overlooking the Theban Hills. This contemporary, locally rated four-star hotel is conveniently located for our tour and offers some truly unique facilities. These include beautiful gardens with superb views of the Nile, a pool floating on the Nile itself and a restaurant boat. All comfortable and spacious rooms are en-suite and include satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a hairdryer, air conditioning and a safety deposit box.
Single supplement from £500pp
Standard single room from £500pp
City View single room from £629pp
Side Nile View single room from £650pp
DEPOSIT: At time of booking = £800pp.
Staggered payments of
15th November 2025 £500pp.
15th November 2026 £1000pp.
Final Balance due by 15th March 2027
Eclipse 2027 – Egypt’s Ancient Luxor Odyssey & Cairo –
11 Days by Air from £5,499pp
Calling all Ancient Egyptian explorers and Eclipse-seeking enthusiasts! Uncover the mysteries of the Pyramids and see the 2027 Eclipse in Luxor, Egypt, on this once-in-a-lifetime odyssey! An epic adventure awaits at the site of Ancient Thebes, in Luxor, which promises to be the most extraordinary spot to view the total solar eclipse directly overhead the west bank of the Nile. We combine this truly awesome spectacle with an exploration of Cairo, with visits to the Grand Egyptian Museum, Khan el Khalili Bazaar and the ancient sites of Memphis and Saqqara. At Luxor we enjoy guided tours to some of the most magnificent temples, such as Karnak Temple, Esna Temple, Dendera Temple and the resting place of the Pharaohs – the Valley of the Kings.
Astronomer, astrophotographer and the BBC's Sky at Night TV presenter, Pete Lawrence, will be travelling with us for the Luxor portion of the tour, sharing his insight and knowledge of what to expect and how best to photograph the eclipse. With private group talks and guided tours throughout, 2027 will be the longest eclipse of the century, where at the centreline an astonishing 6 minutes and 24 seconds is expected. With Pete’s expert advice we are taken into the path of ‘totality’ for a holiday experience like no other!
Trip Highlights
Return flights to Cairo & onward return flights to Luxor
Airport taxes & luggage allowance (one piece of checked-in hold luggage per person)
Airport transfers in Egypt
3 nights at the Baron Hotel, Cairo (JG4 rating) or similar with breakfast
7 nights at the Iberotel Hotel, Luxor (JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast
2 lunches in Cairo
Pre & post eclipse presentations with Pete Lawrence in Luxor
Travel to/from our dedicated Luxor eclipse site for the eclipse experience (includes safety viewing glasses)
Excursions to the Grand Egyptian Museum, Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx, Old Cairo (including the Citadel & the Muhammad Ali Mosque) & Dendera Temple
Guided tours of Khan el Khalili Bazaar, Memphis & Saqqara, Valley of the Kings & Queens, Great Karnak Temple, Esna Temple
Guided nighttime tour of illuminated Luxor Temple
Sunset felucca cruise on the River Nile
Accompanied by astronomer Pete Lawrence
Services of a Tour Manager throughout
Itinerary
26th July: Arrival in Cairo
On arrival at Cairo International Airport, we are greeted by our local airport representative who will assist us with our transfer to our hotel, our home for the next three nights. After check-in, we are treated to a welcome briefing by our Tour Manager about the upcoming itinerary and what to expect.
27th July: Cairo Exploration
After breakfast, we head to the world-famous Grand Egyptian Museum, a portal to the past that houses the world's largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities. From the colossal statues that guard the entrance to the smallest amulets held within, the Grand Egyptian Museum is a treasure trove of artefacts that have been meticulously preserved over millennia. Visitors can marvel at the intricate gold work of the pharaohs, decipher the ancient hieroglyphs and stand face-to-face with the mummies of Egypt's kings and queens.
Afterwards, we have lunch with a view of the magnificent Pyramids and then enjoy a tour of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. These ancient architectural wonders have stood the test of time as the last remaining monuments of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Sphinx is an iconic statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human, believed to represent the Pharaoh Khafre.
In the evening, we embark on a guided tour of Cairo’s famous marketplace, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Here we experience bustling alleyways, vibrant stalls and a labyrinth of shops. It’s a real treat for the senses, with many traditional crafts, aromatic spices, and intricate jewellery on offer.
28th July: Cultural Excursion
We enjoy breakfast at our hotel before taking a guided tour of the ancient sites of Memphis and Sakkara. Here we uncover captivating archaeological sites and discover the rich heritage amongst the many age-old artefacts, majestic pyramids and mesmerizing ruins.
After an included lunch, we head to the historic heart of Cairo, an area steeped in centuries of history, known as Old Cairo or Coptic Cairo. This enchanting district is a time capsule where narrow lanes and ancient structures tell tales of the city's diverse past. As we meander through its alleys, we encounter a rich tapestry of Christian, Jewish and Islamic influences.
We also visit two significant landmarks, the Citadel and the Muhammad Ali Mosque. Perched on a hill with commanding views of Cairo, the Citadel is a fortress of historical and architectural significance. Built by Saladin in the 12th century, this medieval Islamic fortification has stood the test of time, offering visitors a glimpse into Egypt's rich past.
The Muhammad Ali Mosque, often referred to as the Alabaster Mosque, is a stunning piece of Islamic architecture. Constructed in the early 19th century, it stands proudly within the walls of the ancient Citadel of Cairo. This mosque is not only a significant site of worship but also a symbol of Egypt's rich history and cultural heritage.
29th July: Transfer to Luxor
After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and transfer to Cairo International Airport with assistance from the team. Upon arrival in Luxor, our local representative is on hand to assist with luggage and transfer to our hotel. After check-in, we enjoy dinner at our hotel.
July 30th – Valley of the Kings & Queens Tour
After an early breakfast we embark on a highlight of the trip, a guided tour of the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple and the Valley of the Queens. For nearly 500 years in Luxor, Egypt, from the Eighteenth Dynasty to the Twentieth, this area was the principal burial place for royal figures and Pharaohs. The vast area is divided into sections – the East Valley, where we find most of the royal tombs, and the West Valley, also known as the Valley of the Monkeys. Archaeologists have excavated many tombs over the years, and arguably the most famous was the tomb of the young Tutankhamun.
In the afternoon, we return to the hotel for time at leisure to relax by the hotel pool. In the evening, we enjoy a welcome presentation by renowned astronomer Pete Lawrence, followed by dinner.
July 31st – Great Karnak Temple & Luxor Temple Exploration
We start the day with an early breakfast and then head out for a tour of the impressive Great Karnak Temple. This huge site was the main religious place of worship for the god Amun-Re and consists of temples, chapels, and a variety of other buildings, constructed by one Pharaoh after the other, each adding more and more structures to create one massive temple complex. Our guided tour explores the Hypostyle Hall – which features 134 massive columns, arranged in 16 rows.
In the afternoon we return to the hotel for time at leisure. Then, before sunset, we embark on a special night tour of the illuminated Luxor Temple, dating back to 1400 BC and one of the most significant sites of the ancient world. Afterwards, we enjoy dinner at our hotel.
August 1st – Esna Temple Excursion
After an early breakfast, we depart for the magnificent Esna Temple, south of Luxor. Built over 3000 years ago, the Esna Temple, which means ‘the city of the Fish,’ was dedicated to the god of creation, Khnum, and was considered to be the source of the River Nile. Inside we find many symbols of this fascinating civilisation, including carved hieroglyphs and sculptures. We enjoy a guided tour of the Temple before returning to our hotel for a presentation with Pete Lawrence followed by dinner.
August 2nd – Eclipse Viewing Day
After breakfast, we head to our eclipse viewing site near Luxor Temple. Pete Lawrence is on hand to provide photography tips and insight. Every 18 years and 11 days, the Saros Cycle series 136 occurs and has up until now produced some of the longest eclipses, notably an incredible 6 minute 38.86 seconds in 2009 – and eclipse chasers are expecting the 2027 phenomenon to be a truly awesome spectacle. Afterwards, we return to our hotel for dinner and much discussion about the eclipse!
August 3rd – Luxor
After breakfast, we spend time at leisure in Luxor. There is much to see and admire around the bustling metropolis, from the stunning architecture that reflects the city’s ancient history to various historic buildings. Later, we enjoy an evening cruise on the Nile River on a traditional felucca. This Egyptian sailboat has been used for thousands of years to traverse the Nile, and we should be treated to the most spectacular sunset views of the city from the relaxing comfort of our boat. After our cruise on the Nile, we return to our hotel for dinner.
August 4th – Visit to Dendera Temple
We start the day with an early breakfast and then head to the impressively large Dendera Temple. Here we discover many historic structures such as a basilica, a sacred lake and many temples and shrines. The site also contains the Temple of Hathor, one of ancient Egypt’s best-preserved sites. We enjoy a post eclipse presentation, recapping the events and sharing images of the day of the Eclipse.
August 5th – Departure
We check out of our hotel and transfer to Luxor Airport for our flight to Cairo and onward flight to Heathrow.
From £4,499per person
DEPOSIT: At time of booking = £800pp.
Staggered payments of.
15th November 2025 £500pp.
15th November 2026 £1000pp.
Final Balance due by 15th March 2027
Hotel
Range of hotels (JG4 rating)
We stay at a hotel such as the locally-rated 4-star Baron Hotel in Cairo, located in the ancient Heliopolis district of the city, providing easy access to Cairo's historical landmarks, vibrant markets and cultural attractions. The luxurious hotel has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The hotel offers a unique blend of classic sophistication and modern comfort. Facilities include three restaurants, two bars, nightclub, café, shopping arcade and a state-of-the-art wellness centre. All comfortable and spacious rooms are en-suite with minibar, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.
Iberotel Hotel, Luxor (JG4 rating)
The Iberotel Luxor is positioned on the River Nile, close to Luxor Temple and overlooking the Theban Hills. This contemporary, locally rated four-star hotel is conveniently located for our tour and offers some truly unique facilities. These include beautiful gardens with superb views of the Nile, a pool floating on the Nile itself and a restaurant boat. All comfortable and spacious rooms are en-suite and include satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a hairdryer, air conditioning and a safety deposit box.
JG4 rating
Accommodation in our JG4 category is of an even higher standard, typically offering a wide range of facilities and services. Bedrooms are designed to make your stay the most comfortable possible and the staff provide a service that reflects the detail and quality. You can also expect higher standards of food and beverages.
Helpful Information
Passport & visa information
A full UK passport is required with at least six months validity from your arrival date. British passport holders will need a visa. Please refer to the Foreign, commonwealth & Development Office for current information and general travel advice to Egypt: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt
Air Information
*Air package holiday prices are correct at the time of publication but are subject to fluctuation and availability. The final price will depend on your chosen airport, airline and flight time. Terms and conditions apply. Errors and omissions excepted. Please visit our website for details.
Operated by Just Go! Holidays Ltd trading as Omega Breaks, ATOL No.10889
This tour operated by Omega Holidays.
Westoe Travel act as agents for Omegaa Holidays (ATOL number 10889)
Mobility
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We advise customers take travel insurance for all bookings
Click here for Holiday Insurance or
Call Holiday Extras 0800 0833551 quoting reference L4746 for best prices or
Call Just Travel Cover 0800 2942972 quoting reference L4746 for best prices
All passengers must have a valid passport for this tour. Depending on the country issuing your passport, a visa may also be required. More information can be found at the Identity & Passport Service
Identity and Passport service
Customers should ensure that they are fit enough to travel, please check with your General Practitioner and www.fco.gov.uk/travel and www.nathnac.org
The latest advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office about travelling abroad
Foreign and commonwealth office
We strongly advise that you check the latest advice from the Foreign and commonwealth office about travelling abroad both before booking and before travelling
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