Trafalgar

Wonders of Ancient Egypt

Wonders Of Ancient Egypt
The enduring buzz of Cairo’s bustling city streets and imposing Great Pyramids of Giza launch your discovery of Ancient Egypt. Cruise down the Nile to Kom-Ombo, past Luxor, and explore the Valley of the Kings.

Dining Summary

  • 11 Breakfast (B)
  • 7 Lunch (L)
  • 7 Dinner (D)

Be My Guest

  • Luxor: Enjoy an exclusive Be My Guest encounter on the banks of the Nile where your hosts, the El Boerey family, will share their stories about family life in a typical Luxor village. Savor a local culinary tradition of warm mint tea and freshly baked local bread with honey.

Iconic Experience

  • Giza: Enjoy a day gazing at the Great Pyramids of Giza and its treasures – the Step Pyramid of Saqqara and the Colossus of Rames II.
  • Karnak: Stand amid a vast forest of columns in the largest temple complex known to man as your Egyptologist explains the significance behind it. Walk the avenue of ram-headed sphinxes, see the of Rameses II and the Hypostyle Hall.
  • Luxor: Spend the day discovering the wonders of the Luxor Museum.
  • Dendera: At the Temple of Hathor, see a rare depiction of Cleopatra and Caesarian.
  • Aswan: Admire the picturesque setting of Aswan and its iconic sites as you embark on a sightseeing tour of the city. Learn about the beautiful Temple of Isis and the contentious construction of the Aswan Dam.
  • Kitchener’s Island: Sail around Kitchener’s Island and its Botanical Gardens in a traditional felucca.
  • : Take a short boat ride to Philae Island, located between the old and new Aswan Dams, where you’ll have a short tour. You’ll then be seated in a Roman-style theater for a retelling of the perennial Nile flood, and of the goddesses Isis and Hathor, to whose worship the temple was originally dedicated.
  • Kom Ombo: Discover the temple of Kom-Ombo and discover the wonders of the duo gods Horus the Elder and Sobek.
  • Valley of the Kings: Discover the ancient history behind the final resting place of Egypt’s Pharaohs and Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple at the Valley of the Kings.
  • Cairo: Come face to face with one of ancient Egypt’s most famous treasures, the golden mask of Tutankhamun. Now displayed at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), this incredible artefact showcases the legacy of the boy king. Take a closer look at its intricate details and uncover the stories behind this iconic piece of history.
  • Cairo: Spend your day enjoying the sights of the Hanging Church of St. Mary or embark on a journey to see the ancient Citadel and the Alabaster Mosque.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

  • Aswan: Wander off the beaten tracks in Aswan as you meet the wonderful ladies of a local Women owned co-operative. Their mission is to ensure a garbage free world and they are using waste and natural material like bamboo or palm trees to create fine handicrafts. The organization is providing a hub of support and comfort for over 300 women who may live in poverty or suffer from loneliness, and want to become financially independent. Thanks to their newly learnt skills, they have now been able to provide the main source of income for their family. This experience is advancing Global Goal 5: Gender Equality.

Must-see Highlights

  • Explore Luxor and Cairo with an Egyptologist
  • Visit the temples of Karnak, Luxor Museum, the temple dedicated to Goddess Hathor at Dendera, Luxor Temple, the Temple of Isis on the island of Philae, the Temple at Kom-Ombo, Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple and the Colossi of Memnon in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo
  • View the Step Pyramid in Sakkara, the Great Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza, the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan, the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener’s Island, the Citadel, Alabaster and Sultan Hassan Mosques in Cairo
  • See the Ramses II statue and Alabaster Sphinx in Memphis, the Sound and Light show in Giza
  • Sail in a felucca across the Nile

Stays With Stories

  • Cairo: Nile cruises emerged in the early 19th century as travelers sought to explore Egypt’s ancient wonders by boat. The Nile has always played a crucial role in Egyptian life from the transportation of goods, to enriching wildlife. Take in the cultural and historic significance of the Nile as you drift along the famous river during your overnight cruise.

Whats Included

  • The services of a professional English speaking Egyptologist / Travel Director throughout your journey
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Return flight from Cairo to Luxor
  • Seven-night luxury Nile Cruise
  • Flight from Luxor to Cairo
  • Optional Experiences and free time
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized

05/16/2025 through 03/26/2027
05/16/2025 through 04/10/2027

Day 1

Upon the banks of the mighty Nile River, the renowned city of Cairo stands tall as an iconic world capital and a well-preserved relic of antiquity. Immerse yourself in this historically significant city, replete with architectural wonders, mesmerizing artifacts, and sprawling markets humming with energy.

Of course, a trip to Cairo must include a visit to its most recognizable monuments. Head west to the Giza Necropolis, whose warm desert sands will transport you to the time of the ancient pharaohs. Gaze in awe at the Great Pyramid of Giza, a Wonder of the World, as well as its two sister pyramids and the famous Great Sphinx monolith. Hop on a camel to view the pyramids from another vantage point, or venture inside any of the three pyramids to explore the rooms in which the pharaohs were entombed.

Cairo’s city center brims with fascinating museums, striking mosques and temples, grand palaces, and excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Highlights include the expansive Egyptian Museum, painted in bright red and home to thousands of unique antiquities, as well as the enormous Salah El-Din citadel, site of the exquisite Muhammad Ali Mosque. The Coptic Cairo and Islamic Cairo neighborhoods exhibit the best of both Christian and Islamic influences within the city and abound with stunning art and diverse houses of worship. Experience one of the most legendary bazaars in Africa at the Khan el-Khalili souk in Islamic Cairo. Here you’ll traverse a winding outdoor market to browse spices, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs, all authentic to Egypt.

Discover the historic paradise that is Cairo and let this ancient city astound you!


Day 2

Upon the banks of the mighty Nile River, the renowned city of Cairo stands tall as an iconic world capital and a well-preserved relic of antiquity. Immerse yourself in this historically significant city, replete with architectural wonders, mesmerizing artifacts, and sprawling markets humming with energy.

Of course, a trip to Cairo must include a visit to its most recognizable monuments. Head west to the Giza Necropolis, whose warm desert sands will transport you to the time of the ancient pharaohs. Gaze in awe at the Great Pyramid of Giza, a Wonder of the World, as well as its two sister pyramids and the famous Great Sphinx monolith. Hop on a camel to view the pyramids from another vantage point, or venture inside any of the three pyramids to explore the rooms in which the pharaohs were entombed.

Cairo’s city center brims with fascinating museums, striking mosques and temples, grand palaces, and excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Highlights include the expansive Egyptian Museum, painted in bright red and home to thousands of unique antiquities, as well as the enormous Salah El-Din citadel, site of the exquisite Muhammad Ali Mosque. The Coptic Cairo and Islamic Cairo neighborhoods exhibit the best of both Christian and Islamic influences within the city and abound with stunning art and diverse houses of worship. Experience one of the most legendary bazaars in Africa at the Khan el-Khalili souk in Islamic Cairo. Here you’ll traverse a winding outdoor market to browse spices, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs, all authentic to Egypt.

Discover the historic paradise that is Cairo and let this ancient city astound you!


Day 3

Upon the banks of the mighty Nile River, the renowned city of Cairo stands tall as an iconic world capital and a well-preserved relic of antiquity. Immerse yourself in this historically significant city, replete with architectural wonders, mesmerizing artifacts, and sprawling markets humming with energy.

Of course, a trip to Cairo must include a visit to its most recognizable monuments. Head west to the Giza Necropolis, whose warm desert sands will transport you to the time of the ancient pharaohs. Gaze in awe at the Great Pyramid of Giza, a Wonder of the World, as well as its two sister pyramids and the famous Great Sphinx monolith. Hop on a camel to view the pyramids from another vantage point, or venture inside any of the three pyramids to explore the rooms in which the pharaohs were entombed.

Cairo’s city center brims with fascinating museums, striking mosques and temples, grand palaces, and excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Highlights include the expansive Egyptian Museum, painted in bright red and home to thousands of unique antiquities, as well as the enormous Salah El-Din citadel, site of the exquisite Muhammad Ali Mosque. The Coptic Cairo and Islamic Cairo neighborhoods exhibit the best of both Christian and Islamic influences within the city and abound with stunning art and diverse houses of worship. Experience one of the most legendary bazaars in Africa at the Khan el-Khalili souk in Islamic Cairo. Here you’ll traverse a winding outdoor market to browse spices, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs, all authentic to Egypt.

Discover the historic paradise that is Cairo and let this ancient city astound you!


Day 4 Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum, is a city where ancient history and breathtaking archaeology converge. Nestled along the eastern bank of the Nile River, Luxor is home to some of the most remarkable and well-preserved relics of ancient Egypt. A visit to the Karnak Temple Complex, an expansive and awe-inspiring site dedicated to the Theban triad of gods, reveals the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture and religious practices. The massive columns, obelisks, and the Sacred Lake offer a glimpse into the grandeur of one of the most influential religious centers of ancient Egypt.

Just a short distance away lies the Valley of the Kings, a necropolis that served as the final resting place for many of Egypt’s pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. The richly decorated tombs, including the famous Tomb of Tutankhamun, provide unparalleled insights into the burial practices and art of ancient Egypt. Visitors can marvel at the intricate wall paintings and hieroglyphs that have been remarkably preserved over millennia.

The Temple of Luxor, situated on the city’s main thoroughfare, offers another fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian religion and architecture. Originally built by Amenhotep III and later expanded by Ramesses II, this temple stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of ancient Egypt. The grand avenue of sphinxes that once connected it to Karnak Temple adds to the allure and historical significance of the site.

Fun Fact: Luxor was once known as Thebes and served as the capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom. The city’s rich history and architectural wonders make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike. For a truly memorable experience, consider visiting Luxor between October and April when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring its ancient treasures.
Day 5 The Temple of Horus at Edfu has a massive entrance pylon covered with sunk relief carvings. This Ptolemaic temple was constructed between 237 and 57 B.C.E.

Once a year for the "Feast of the Beautiful Meeting," Hathor traveled from Dendera to Edfu to visit her husband/consort, Horus. Her arrival was scheduled for the afternoon of the new moon. The statues of the deities remained in the mammisi or birth house until the end of the festival at the full moon. The result of their union was their son Ihy or Horus-Sematawy.
Day 6 Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Nile River, Aswan, Egypt, is a city where ancient history and natural beauty converge in an enchanting landscape. Often referred to as the gateway to Nubia, Aswan is a haven for those seeking to explore Egypt's rich heritage while basking in a serene, almost mystical atmosphere. The city's ancient roots are palpable as you stroll through its vibrant streets, where the echoes of Pharaonic, Roman, and Islamic eras linger in every corner.

Aswan's most iconic attraction is the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. This temple complex, which was painstakingly relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into Egypt's ancient religious practices. The temple's intricate carvings and towering columns are a testament to the skill and devotion of its creators, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike. A visit to the nearby Nubian Museum further deepens your understanding of the region's rich cultural tapestry, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that span thousands of years.

For a more leisurely experience, a felucca ride on the Nile provides an unforgettable way to soak in the natural beauty of Aswan. As you glide along the calm waters, you'll be treated to stunning views of Elephantine Island, the Aga Khan Mausoleum, and the lush Botanical Gardens on Kitchener's Island. The warm, golden hues of the sunset over the Nile create a scene of breathtaking serenity, perfectly capturing the essence of Aswan's timeless allure.

Fun Fact: Aswan's ancient quarries were the source of much of the granite used to build Egypt's temples and monuments, including the famous Unfinished Obelisk, which lies abandoned and half-carved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the construction techniques of the ancient Egyptians.

With its blend of historical treasures, natural beauty, and laid-back charm, Aswan invites you to step back in time and discover the soul of ancient Egypt.
Day 7 Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Nile River, Aswan, Egypt, is a city where ancient history and natural beauty converge in an enchanting landscape. Often referred to as the gateway to Nubia, Aswan is a haven for those seeking to explore Egypt's rich heritage while basking in a serene, almost mystical atmosphere. The city's ancient roots are palpable as you stroll through its vibrant streets, where the echoes of Pharaonic, Roman, and Islamic eras linger in every corner.

Aswan's most iconic attraction is the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. This temple complex, which was painstakingly relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into Egypt's ancient religious practices. The temple's intricate carvings and towering columns are a testament to the skill and devotion of its creators, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike. A visit to the nearby Nubian Museum further deepens your understanding of the region's rich cultural tapestry, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that span thousands of years.

For a more leisurely experience, a felucca ride on the Nile provides an unforgettable way to soak in the natural beauty of Aswan. As you glide along the calm waters, you'll be treated to stunning views of Elephantine Island, the Aga Khan Mausoleum, and the lush Botanical Gardens on Kitchener's Island. The warm, golden hues of the sunset over the Nile create a scene of breathtaking serenity, perfectly capturing the essence of Aswan's timeless allure.

Fun Fact: Aswan's ancient quarries were the source of much of the granite used to build Egypt's temples and monuments, including the famous Unfinished Obelisk, which lies abandoned and half-carved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the construction techniques of the ancient Egyptians.

With its blend of historical treasures, natural beauty, and laid-back charm, Aswan invites you to step back in time and discover the soul of ancient Egypt.
Day 8

Kom Ombo, a hidden gem along the Nile River in southern Egypt, is a destination that seamlessly blends ancient history, captivating architecture, and scenic beauty. This charming town is renowned for the Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique double temple dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god of the sky. The temple's twin design is a rare feature in ancient Egyptian architecture, with mirror-image halls, sanctuaries, and chambers that reflect its dual dedication. Built during the Ptolemaic dynasty (180-47 BC), the temple's intricate reliefs and hieroglyphics offer fascinating insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs, medical practices, and daily life.

A visit to Kom Ombo is not complete without exploring the Crocodile Museum, located just a stone's throw from the temple. This museum houses a collection of mummified crocodiles and other artifacts dedicated to Sobek, showcasing the deep reverence the ancient Egyptians had for the Nile’s fearsome creatures. As you wander through the museum, you can discover the significance of these animals in ancient mythology and their role in the spiritual and agricultural life of the region. It’s an experience that brings to life the spiritual and cultural dimensions of ancient Egypt in a tangible way.

Beyond its historical treasures, Kom Ombo offers a serene riverside setting that makes it a perfect stop on a Nile cruise. Picture yourself gliding down the Nile at sunset, with the Temple of Kom Ombo majestically illuminated against the twilight sky—a truly unforgettable sight. The surrounding countryside, dotted with lush sugarcane fields and traditional Nubian villages, invites exploration. You can take a felucca ride on the Nile or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the local markets, where vibrant textiles, spices, and handcrafted goods offer a taste of local culture and traditions.

A fun fact about Kom Ombo is that it was not only a religious center but also a site of great scientific importance. The temple contains one of the earliest known depictions of medical instruments carved into its walls, hinting at the advanced medical knowledge of ancient Egyptian priests who likely performed surgeries and treatments here. These carvings are believed to be among the oldest records of surgical tools, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated practices of the time. For those intrigued by ancient history and archaeology, Kom Ombo presents an irresistible destination where stories from millennia ago come to life.


Day 9

Kom Ombo, a hidden gem along the Nile River in southern Egypt, is a destination that seamlessly blends ancient history, captivating architecture, and scenic beauty. This charming town is renowned for the Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique double temple dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god of the sky. The temple's twin design is a rare feature in ancient Egyptian architecture, with mirror-image halls, sanctuaries, and chambers that reflect its dual dedication. Built during the Ptolemaic dynasty (180-47 BC), the temple's intricate reliefs and hieroglyphics offer fascinating insights into ancient Egyptian beliefs, medical practices, and daily life.

A visit to Kom Ombo is not complete without exploring the Crocodile Museum, located just a stone's throw from the temple. This museum houses a collection of mummified crocodiles and other artifacts dedicated to Sobek, showcasing the deep reverence the ancient Egyptians had for the Nile’s fearsome creatures. As you wander through the museum, you can discover the significance of these animals in ancient mythology and their role in the spiritual and agricultural life of the region. It’s an experience that brings to life the spiritual and cultural dimensions of ancient Egypt in a tangible way.

Beyond its historical treasures, Kom Ombo offers a serene riverside setting that makes it a perfect stop on a Nile cruise. Picture yourself gliding down the Nile at sunset, with the Temple of Kom Ombo majestically illuminated against the twilight sky—a truly unforgettable sight. The surrounding countryside, dotted with lush sugarcane fields and traditional Nubian villages, invites exploration. You can take a felucca ride on the Nile or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the local markets, where vibrant textiles, spices, and handcrafted goods offer a taste of local culture and traditions.

A fun fact about Kom Ombo is that it was not only a religious center but also a site of great scientific importance. The temple contains one of the earliest known depictions of medical instruments carved into its walls, hinting at the advanced medical knowledge of ancient Egyptian priests who likely performed surgeries and treatments here. These carvings are believed to be among the oldest records of surgical tools, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated practices of the time. For those intrigued by ancient history and archaeology, Kom Ombo presents an irresistible destination where stories from millennia ago come to life.


Day 10 Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum, is a city where ancient history and breathtaking archaeology converge. Nestled along the eastern bank of the Nile River, Luxor is home to some of the most remarkable and well-preserved relics of ancient Egypt. A visit to the Karnak Temple Complex, an expansive and awe-inspiring site dedicated to the Theban triad of gods, reveals the grandeur of ancient Egyptian architecture and religious practices. The massive columns, obelisks, and the Sacred Lake offer a glimpse into the grandeur of one of the most influential religious centers of ancient Egypt.

Just a short distance away lies the Valley of the Kings, a necropolis that served as the final resting place for many of Egypt’s pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. The richly decorated tombs, including the famous Tomb of Tutankhamun, provide unparalleled insights into the burial practices and art of ancient Egypt. Visitors can marvel at the intricate wall paintings and hieroglyphs that have been remarkably preserved over millennia.

The Temple of Luxor, situated on the city’s main thoroughfare, offers another fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian religion and architecture. Originally built by Amenhotep III and later expanded by Ramesses II, this temple stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of ancient Egypt. The grand avenue of sphinxes that once connected it to Karnak Temple adds to the allure and historical significance of the site.

Fun Fact: Luxor was once known as Thebes and served as the capital of Egypt during the New Kingdom. The city’s rich history and architectural wonders make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike. For a truly memorable experience, consider visiting Luxor between October and April when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring its ancient treasures.
Day 11

Upon the banks of the mighty Nile River, the renowned city of Cairo stands tall as an iconic world capital and a well-preserved relic of antiquity. Immerse yourself in this historically significant city, replete with architectural wonders, mesmerizing artifacts, and sprawling markets humming with energy.

Of course, a trip to Cairo must include a visit to its most recognizable monuments. Head west to the Giza Necropolis, whose warm desert sands will transport you to the time of the ancient pharaohs. Gaze in awe at the Great Pyramid of Giza, a Wonder of the World, as well as its two sister pyramids and the famous Great Sphinx monolith. Hop on a camel to view the pyramids from another vantage point, or venture inside any of the three pyramids to explore the rooms in which the pharaohs were entombed.

Cairo’s city center brims with fascinating museums, striking mosques and temples, grand palaces, and excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Highlights include the expansive Egyptian Museum, painted in bright red and home to thousands of unique antiquities, as well as the enormous Salah El-Din citadel, site of the exquisite Muhammad Ali Mosque. The Coptic Cairo and Islamic Cairo neighborhoods exhibit the best of both Christian and Islamic influences within the city and abound with stunning art and diverse houses of worship. Experience one of the most legendary bazaars in Africa at the Khan el-Khalili souk in Islamic Cairo. Here you’ll traverse a winding outdoor market to browse spices, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs, all authentic to Egypt.

Discover the historic paradise that is Cairo and let this ancient city astound you!


Day 12

Upon the banks of the mighty Nile River, the renowned city of Cairo stands tall as an iconic world capital and a well-preserved relic of antiquity. Immerse yourself in this historically significant city, replete with architectural wonders, mesmerizing artifacts, and sprawling markets humming with energy.

Of course, a trip to Cairo must include a visit to its most recognizable monuments. Head west to the Giza Necropolis, whose warm desert sands will transport you to the time of the ancient pharaohs. Gaze in awe at the Great Pyramid of Giza, a Wonder of the World, as well as its two sister pyramids and the famous Great Sphinx monolith. Hop on a camel to view the pyramids from another vantage point, or venture inside any of the three pyramids to explore the rooms in which the pharaohs were entombed.

Cairo’s city center brims with fascinating museums, striking mosques and temples, grand palaces, and excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Highlights include the expansive Egyptian Museum, painted in bright red and home to thousands of unique antiquities, as well as the enormous Salah El-Din citadel, site of the exquisite Muhammad Ali Mosque. The Coptic Cairo and Islamic Cairo neighborhoods exhibit the best of both Christian and Islamic influences within the city and abound with stunning art and diverse houses of worship. Experience one of the most legendary bazaars in Africa at the Khan el-Khalili souk in Islamic Cairo. Here you’ll traverse a winding outdoor market to browse spices, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs, all authentic to Egypt.

Discover the historic paradise that is Cairo and let this ancient city astound you!


11/03/26 - 12/08/26

Starting At $4,725

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12/15/26 - 12/26/26

Starting At $4,875

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12/22/26 - 01/02/27

Starting At $5,425

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12/29/26 - 01/09/27

Starting At $5,375

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01/05/27 - 01/16/27

Starting At $4,875

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01/12/27 - 03/16/27

Starting At $4,725

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03/23/27 - 04/03/27

Starting At $4,825

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03/30/27 - 04/10/27

Starting At $4,875

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Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change.
Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.

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