IMPAKD JOURNEY — EGYPT

Culture, Community & the Red Sea

This 11-day journey invites you to explore Egypt not only through its iconic history, but through the people, initiatives and ecosystems that keep its culture alive today.

From the vibrant streets of Cairo to the calm shores of the Red Sea, you’ll move between ancient heritage, contemporary community projects and hands-on environmental conservation, guided by local partners deeply rooted in place.

Start: Cairo
End: Marsa Alam

Duration: 11 days

Small group
From: £2,850

Community-First Travel
Experiences co-created with local farmers, artisans and hosts who are fairly compensated and deeply involved in sharing their culture.
Real Connection
Intentionally small group sizes to minimise impact and create space for meaningful, human exchange.
Living Culture
Hands-on participation in rituals, craft and daily life, helping preserve traditions at risk of disappearing.
Responsible by Design
Walking, cycling and public transport prioritised, supporting rural revitalisation and community-led initiatives.

Who This Journey Is For

This journey is designed for travellers who:

Seek depth, authenticity and cultural connection

Want to engage with culture beyond sightseeing

Are curious about history, language and local life

Value sustainability, heritage and community-led travel

You’ll travel with a small group of like-minded people who believe travel can support what matters, culturally, socially and environmentally.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS JOURNEY

A learning experience shaped by community, heritage and living ecosystems

Egypt invites you to move with awareness, to listen, to engage, and to connect beyond the surface. You’ll explore the country alongside local guides, community leaders and conservation partners who open doors to stories, skills and ecosystems rarely accessed by visitors.

Throughout your journey:

  • Culture is lived, through neighbourhood walks, women-led craft initiatives and everyday encounters in Cairo.
  • History becomes human, shared through local voices who connect past and present with care and context.
  • Nature becomes a responsibility, as you contribute to real environmental action, from protecting the Nile to supporting marine conservation in the Red Sea.
  • Learning is woven into experience, with time for reflection, exchange and slower rhythms by the sea.

This journey is for travellers who seek understanding, not accumulation. A chance to experience Egypt not as a checklist of monuments, but as a living place shaped by people, heritage and fragile ecosystems.

WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE

This journey unfolds across two contrasting landscapes, Cairo and the Red Sea, bringing together culture, community and conservation in a single, coherent experience.

ITINERARY OVERVIEW — 11 DAYS IN EGYPT

DAYS 1–6 — CAIRO

Arrive in Cairo and settle into your hotel. Meet your local host and fellow travellers, and begin your journey with a gentle introduction to the city.

Over the following days, you’ll explore Cairo through local eyes, discovering its layered history, vibrant neighbourhoods and everyday rhythms beyond the tourist routes. Guided cultural walks and heritage experiences reveal the city’s past and present, while community-led initiatives connect you to contemporary Egyptian life.

You’ll take part in meaningful volunteering with local partners, including women-led craft and upcycling initiatives and environmental action along the Nile. These experiences blend cultural learning, sustainability and hands-on participation, offering insight into how communities are shaping Egypt’s future.

DAYS 6–11 — MARSA ALAM (RED SEA)

Travel south via internal flight from Cairo to Marsa Alam, where the pace slows and nature takes centre stage. Settle into an eco-lodge along the Red Sea coast, surrounded by desert landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

During your stay, you’ll work alongside conservation partners from The Red Sea Project™, contributing to real marine protection efforts. Activities include reef and coral health surveys, turtle monitoring and citizen science initiatives that support long-term ecosystem preservation.

Alongside conservation work, you’ll have time to snorkel responsibly, relax by the sea, and reflect on the journey. Optional experiences may include desert encounters, stargazing or cultural exchanges with local communities, offering a balanced close to your time in Egypt.

Day 11 — Departure
Coming soon
DAYS 1–6 — CAIRO

Arrive in Cairo and settle into your hotel. Meet your local host and fellow travellers, and begin your journey with a gentle introduction to the city.

Over the following days, you’ll explore Cairo through local eyes, discovering its layered history, vibrant neighbourhoods and everyday rhythms beyond the tourist routes. Guided cultural walks and heritage experiences reveal the city’s past and present, while community-led initiatives connect you to contemporary Egyptian life.

You’ll take part in meaningful volunteering with local partners, including women-led craft and upcycling initiatives and environmental action along the Nile. These experiences blend cultural learning, sustainability and hands-on participation, offering insight into how communities are shaping Egypt’s future.

DAYS 6–11 — MARSA ALAM (RED SEA)

Travel south via internal flight from Cairo to Marsa Alam, where the pace slows and nature takes centre stage. Settle into an eco-lodge along the Red Sea coast, surrounded by desert landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

During your stay, you’ll work alongside conservation partners from The Red Sea Project™, contributing to real marine protection efforts. Activities include reef and coral health surveys, turtle monitoring and citizen science initiatives that support long-term ecosystem preservation.

Alongside conservation work, you’ll have time to snorkel responsibly, relax by the sea, and reflect on the journey. Optional experiences may include desert encounters, stargazing or cultural exchanges with local communities, offering a balanced close to your time in Egypt.

Day 11 — Departure
Coming soon

LEARNING WITH COMMUNITIES WHO WELCOME YOU IN

Unlike traditional tours that only “show you” a destination, Impakd immerses you in a complete learning pathway: before, during, and after your trip. Every stage is intentionally designed to help you connect deeper, learn authentically, and become part of a community that continues long after you return home.

Before You Travel — Build Your Foundations

You’ll begin your journey with online group sessions introducing:

  • Arabic language basics (greetings, essentials, everyday expressions)
  • Cultural context and social norms in Egypt
  • Key insights to prepare you to learn with communities, not just observe them

These sessions ensure you arrive in Egypt feeling confident, grounded, and ready to connect.

During the Journey — Learn Through Real Life

Once in Egypt, learning happens through experience, not theory, guided by local community leaders, artisans, environmental partners and conservation specialists.

  • Throughout the journey, you’ll learn by:
  •  Exploring Cairo through local perspectives, beyond the tourist routes
  • Working alongside women-led craft and upcycling initiatives
  • Taking part in environmental action along the Nile with local partners
  • Contributing to marine conservation projects on the Red Sea coast
  • Moving between city, river and sea, understanding how culture, history and nature are deeply connected

Culture becomes something you engage with, not something you consume — revealed through shared action, conversation and everyday life.

After You Return — Continue Your Journey

Your learning doesn’t end when the trip ends. You’ll continue developing your Japanese through LITC’s upcoming online learning platform, staying connected to your cohort, your hosts, and the community you learned from.

This post-trip pathway ensures your experience becomes more than a holiday, it becomes a long-term skill and a richer understanding of Japan’s culture.

DATES & PRICES

14th Feb 2026

Arrive on Saturday

24th Feb 2026

Depart on Tuesday

Early bird sale

from £2,850

    Accommodation details
  • SINGLE ROOM
    On request
    GBP £2,850.00
    per person
  • Epic Friend Tickets
    On request
    GBP £8,400.00
    2 Persons
14th Mar 2026

Arrive on Saturday

24th Mar 2026

Depart on Tuesday

from £3,005

    Accommodation details
  • SINGLE ROOM
    On request
    GBP £3,005.00
    per person
  • Epic Friend Tickets
    On request
    GBP £5,200.00
    2 Persons
11th Apr 2026

Arrive on Saturday

21th Apr 2026

Depart on Tuesday

from £3,005

    Accommodation details
  • SINGLE ROOM
    On request
    GBP £3,005.00
    per person
  • Epic Friend Tickets
    On request
    GBP £5,200.00
    2 Persons
9th May 2026

Arrive on Saturday

19th May 2026

Depart on Tuesday

from £3,005

    Accommodation details
  • SINGLE ROOM
    On request
    GBP £3,005.00
    per person
  • Epic Friend Tickets
    On request
    GBP £5,200.00
    2 Persons
12th Sep 2026

Arrive on Saturday

22th Sep 2026

Depart on Tuesday

from £3,005

    Accommodation details
  • SINGLE ROOM

    On request

    GBP £3,005.00

    per person
  • Epic Friend Tickets

    On request

    GBP £5,200.00

    2 Persons
10th Oct 2026

Arrive on Saturday

20th Oct 2026

Depart on Tuesday

from £3,005

    Accommodation details
  • SINGLE ROOM
    On request
    GBP £3,005.00
    per person
  • Epic Friend Tickets
    On request
    GBP £5,200.00
    2 Persons
14th Nov 2026

Arrive on Saturday

24th Nov 2026

Depart on Tuesday

from £3,005

    Accommodation details
    • Accommodation details

Accommodation Details

Numero CINQ Fragrance Boutique Hotel in Cairo.

Serenity Boutique Hotel in the heart of Zamalek, downtown Cairo, near all attractions. Vintage building with huge garden & Fragrance Bar!

The Wadi Sabarah eco-lodge in Marsa Alam

Eco-lodge on the Red Sea coast, close to nature and reefs. Authentic stay near conservation sites with the Red Sea Project™.

What’s Included

  • 11 days / 10 nights accommodation, including:
    • Local boutique hotels in Cairo
    • An eco-lodge stay in Marsa Alam on the Red Sea coast
  • Private rooms as standard, typically with ensuite facilities
  • Daily breakfast, plus welcome and farewell dinners
  • All local transportation, including:
    • Airport transfers on arrival in Egypt
    • Internal flight from Cairo to Marsa Alam
  • All programme and volunteering fees, including:
    • Community projects with Kendaka (women-led crafts & upcycling)
    • Environmental action with VeryNile along the Nile
    • Marine conservation activities with The Red Sea Project™
  • Cultural and historical experiences in Cairo, led by local guides
  • On-the-ground support from local hosts and partner organisations throughout the journey
  • Pre-departure Arabic language and culture classes (live online sessions)

What’s Included

  • 11 days / 10 nights accommodation, including:
    • Local boutique hotels in Cairo
    • An eco-lodge stay in Marsa Alam on the Red Sea coast
  • Private rooms as standard, typically with ensuite facilities
  • Daily breakfast, plus welcome and farewell dinners
  • All local transportation, including:
    • Airport transfers on arrival in Egypt
    • Internal flight from Cairo to Marsa Alam
  • All programme and volunteering fees, including:
    • Community projects with Kendaka (women-led crafts & upcycling)
    • Environmental action with VeryNile along the Nile
    • Marine conservation activities with The Red Sea Project™
  • Cultural and historical experiences in Cairo, led by local guides
  • On-the-ground support from local hosts and partner organisations throughout the journey
  • Pre-departure Arabic language and culture classes (live online sessions)

Travel Pace

Relaxed to moderate, balancing guided activities with time to slow down and reflect.

Physical Level

Accessible to most travellers, with daily walking included.

Language

Beginner-friendly, no prior Japanese knowledge required.

Group Size

Small groups only, for deeper connection and flexibility.

Support

A local host and the LITC team accompany the journey throughout.

Payment & Booking

Secure your place with a 30% deposit. The remaining balance is due one month before departure. Flexible payment arrangements are available.

Safety & Wellbeing

Egypt is explored through trusted local partnerships. Your local host provides ongoing support for logistics, communication and wellbeing throughout the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (2026)

BOOKING & PAYMENTS

When can I book my 2026 trip?

Bookings are open now! We recommend securing your spot early as our group sizes are limited to 2-6 people to ensure a quality, intimate experience.

What deposit is required?

A 30% deposit is required to secure your place at the time of booking.

When is the balance payment due?

 

Balance payment deadlines vary by tour and booking date:

  • For tours departing in 65+ days: Balance due 30-60 days before tour start (check your specific tour details)
  • For tours departing in less than 65 days: Full payment required at booking (except February/March tours which require full payment 30 days prior)
What payment methods do you accept?

We accept payment via our website using Stripe, which includes:

  • Credit/debit cards
  • Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
  • Bank redirects
What is your cancellation policy?

We have a 72-hour cooling-off period for all bookings where no administrative fee applies (payment processing fees may still apply depending on your payment method).

After the cooling-off period, cancellation fees apply based on timing:

February & March tours:

  • 30+ days before: £150 admin fee only
  • 14-29 days before: 50% refund
  • 14 days or less: No refund

April onwards:

  • 60+ days before: £150 admin fee only
  • 30-59 days before: 60% refund
  • 15-29 days before: 40% refund
  • 14 days or less: No refund

Please refer to our detailed Cancellation Policy document for your specific tour dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
What is included in the package price?

Our packages include:

  • Accommodation (single occupancy as standard, unless you wish to share)
  • Daily breakfast and select meals as per itinerary
  • All tours and activities listed in the itinerary
  • Professional English-speaking guides
  • Airport transfers and ground transportation
  • Entry fees to attractions as per itinerary
  • Community engagement activities
  • Online language course before departure
  • In-country language lesson
What is NOT included?

The following are not included:

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance (essential – strongly recommended)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, gifts, additional food/drink)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tips for guides and drivers (guidelines provided)
  • Visa fees (where applicable)
  • Optional activities outside the itinerary
Can I customise my itinerary?

Our group tours follow set itineraries to ensure the best experience, but we do offer optional tours and activities. Please inquire for details and pricing.

Should I purchase travel insurance?

Yes! We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering:

  • Medical emergencies
  • Trip cancellation
  • Baggage loss/delay
  • Emergency evacuation

We can recommend providers if needed.

Our cancellation policy applies regardless of the reason for cancellation, including:

  • Medical emergencies
  • Family emergencies
  • Work commitments
  • Travel disruptions
  • Any other unforeseen circumstances

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes:

  • Trip cancellation coverage – Protects your investment if you must cancel
  • Trip interruption coverage – Covers unused portion if you must leave early
  • Medical emergency coverage – Minimum £200,000 recommended
  • Emergency evacuation – Essential for remote areas
  • Travel delays – Compensation for significant delays
  • Personal belongings – Protection for luggage and valuables

ACCOMMODATION & CONNECTIVITY

What type of accommodation is provided?

We use 3-4 star hotels in central locations. All rooms are for sole occupancy (unless a double/twin room to share is requested) and have private bathrooms and modern amenities.

How do I stay connected?

Most hotels offer Wi-Fi. We highly recommend using Airalo ESim for mobile connectivity. We can also provide information about local SIM cards or international roaming options.

Will I have free time during the tour?

Yes! Our itineraries balance guided activities with free time for independent exploration and relaxation. Contact us for specific free time details in your itinerary.

Can I extend my stay independently?

Absolutely! Many guests choose to arrive early or stay longer. We can provide recommendations and assist with additional accommodation bookings.

HEALTH, FITNESS & DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
What fitness level is required?

A moderate fitness level is required. Most activities can be adapted to different abilities, but please inform us of any:

  • Mobility concerns
  • Health conditions
  • Fitness limitations

This allows us to make appropriate arrangements or advise if the tour is suitable for you.

Specific requirements:

  • Japan tours: Some locations (like rural farm areas in Chiba) are not accessibility-friendly due to rugged terrain and steps
  • Egypt tours: Includes moderate walking at archaeological sites, uneven terrain, climbing stairs, and water activities requiring basic swimming ability and good physical stamina.

Please enquire prior to booking as we are keen to make adaptations where possible.

Are meals included? What about dietary restrictions?

Daily breakfast and select meals are included (see your specific itinerary). We can accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice. Both Japanese and Egyptian cuisine offer excellent vegetarian options.

Important: Please state dietary requirements at the time of booking AND at least 14 days prior to departure.

LANGUAGE LEARNING & CULTURAL IMMERSION
What language preparation is included?

All travelers receive access to our online language course before departure! This fantastic opportunity includes:

  • Essential phrases and vocabulary
  • Cultural etiquette guidance
  • Connection with fellow travelers, tutors, and hosts before arrival

The course is designed for complete beginners and enriches your in-country experience.

Do I need prior language experience?

No prior language experience is required. Our courses are designed for complete beginners and focus on practical phrases for daily interactions and cultural connections.

When does the language course start?

You’ll receive access shortly after booking, giving you plenty of time to learn at your own pace. It’s also a wonderful way to meet your travel companions virtually before departure.

Will we continue learning during the trip?

Yes! An in-country language lesson takes place during your tour, and your guide will reinforce language learning throughout, helping you practice in real-world situations. Many travelers find this immersive approach incredibly rewarding.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
What community projects are included?

Community engagement is a core part of our travel philosophy. Full details are available on our website and in our brochure:

  • Japan: Agricultural community project, experiencing rural Japanese farmlife in Chiba while contributing to sustainable agricultural farming practices.
  • Egypt: Work with Kendaka, a women’s artisan cooperative, learning traditional craft techniques and supporting economic empowerment through fair-trade partnerships. Supporting the organisations VeryNile with river clean up initiatives and working with the Red Sea Project on marine conservation.
How much time is dedicated to community work?

Community engagement is integrated thoughtfully into the itinerary to provide meaningful participation without overwhelming your schedule. Specific timeframes are detailed in the full itinerary on our website.

What if I have specific skills to contribute?

We welcome this! Please let us know about any relevant skills or experience when booking. While our projects are designed for all skill levels, your expertise could create special opportunities for connection.

Are there additional costs for community projects?

No, all community engagement activities are included in your package price. Your participation directly supports these communities, and we maintain ethical, sustainable partnerships with local organizations.

Can I stay in touch with the communities after the trip?

Many travelers do! We can provide information about the organizations we partner with if you wish to continue supporting their work or maintain connections after your journey.

EGYPT TOURS

Cultural Experiences

What is the weather like in Egypt?

Egypt’s weather varies by season (we don’t offer summer trips due to extreme heat):

  • February-March: Ideal conditions with mild, comfortable temperatures (10-23°C/50-73°F); pleasant days for sightseeing, cooler evenings; light layers, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes recommended
  • April-May (Spring): Warm and pleasant (15-30°C/59-86°F); excellent for sightseeing with longer daylight hours; occasional sandstorms possible in April; light, breathable clothing recommended
  • September-October (Early Autumn): Still warm (20-32°C/68-90°F) but more comfortable than summer; September can be hot while October cools down nicely; good time for fewer crowds

November-January (Winter): Mild days, cooler evenings (8-20°C/46-68°F); peak tourist season with comfortable sightseeing weather; pack layers including a warm jacket for evenings and early mornings

Travel Logistics
Do I need a visa for Egypt?

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or e-visa for Egypt. We recommend checking current requirements, and we can provide guidance and documentation for your visa application.

Is Egypt safe for tourists?

Tourist areas in Egypt have strong security measures. Our tours visit well-established tourist sites with experienced guides. We monitor travel advisories and prioritize guest safety.

Cultural Experiences & Sites

What sites will we visit?

Our Egypt itinerary typically includes:

  • Cairo neighborhoods
  • Historical and archaeological sites such as The Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx
  • Nile River experience
  • Red Sea for water sports and marine conservation
What should I wear in Egypt?

Egypt is a conservative country, and respectful dressing enhances your experience:

General guideline: Modest, comfortable clothing is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered in public areas, especially outside tourist resorts.

Temple and archaeological sites: Covered shoulders and knees required. Light, loose-fitting pants or long skirts work well.

Mosque visits:

  • Women should cover shoulders, knees, and hair (scarves often provided at entrance)
  • Men should wear long pants and covered shoulders
  • Shoes must be removed before entering

Fabric choices: Light, breathable natural fabrics (cotton, linen) work best in Egypt’s climate. Avoid tight or revealing clothing.

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. Sandals or slip-on shoes are convenient for mosque visits.

Accessories: Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. Bring a light scarf (useful for sun protection and mosque visits). Pack a light jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned spaces and cooler evenings.

Our pre-trip materials include a detailed packing guide with photos and specific recommendations.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please contact us at  impakd@litc.org

We’re here to help make your Impakd journey unforgettable!

Cancellation Policy

Impakd Tours 2026

Organisation: LionHeart In The Community (LITC)
 Tour Brand: Impakd
 Destination: Japan and Egypt
 Effective Date: 01 December, 2025

Payment Terms

Deposit Requirements

  • 30% deposit due at time of booking to secure your place
  • Remaining balance due 30-60 days prior to tour start date (depending on tour month – see schedule below)
Special Conditions for Launch Trips (February & March 2026)

Launch trips do not require full payment at booking as the tour start date is less than 65 days away. Only the deposit is required initially, with the remaining balance due 30 days prior to tour start.

Note: From April 2026 tours onwards, depending on when a trip is booked, full payment may be required if nearer to the travel date. Please check all payment dates when booking or enquire for information.

Cancellation Terms

Cancellations are accepted subject to our cancellation policy terms and conditions as outlined below. Please note that February and March 2026 tours have separate cancellation windows compared to all tours from April 2026 onwards.

Cancellation Policy – February & March 2026 Tours

February Tour
Cancellation WindowRefund Amount
30+ days before tour start dateFull refund minus admin fee
14-29 days before tour start date50% of total tour price
14 days or less before tour start dateNo refund
March Tour
Cancellation WindowRefund Amount
30+ days before tour start dateFull refund minus admin fee
14-29 days before tour start date50% of total tour price
14 days or less before tour start dateNo refund
Cancellation Policy – April to December 2026 Tours

All tours from April onwards follow this cancellation structure:

Cancellation WindowRefund Amount
60+ days before tour start dateFull refund minus admin fee
30-59 days before tour start date60% of total tour price
15-29 days before tour start date40% of total tour price
14 days or less before tour start dateNo refund

Important Notes

Administrative Fee

A £150 administrative fee applies to all cancellations made in the early cancellation window (30+ or 60+ days depending on tour). This fee covers processing and administrative costs.
How Refunds Are Calculated
  • Early cancellations (30+/60+ days before tour start date): You receive your full payment back minus £150 admin fee. Please check specific cancellation deadlines for your tour at the time of booking.
  • Mid-range cancellations: You receive the stated percentage of the total tour price
  • Late cancellations (14 days or less before tour start date): No refund is provided
How to Cancel Your Booking
Step-by-Step Process
  1. Submit Written Cancellation
    • Email or letter required (verbal cancellations not accepted)
    • Send to: impakd@litc.org
  2. Include Essential Information
    • Your full name
    • Booking reference number
    • Tour date you’re cancelling
    • Reason for cancellation (optional but helpful)
  3. Cancellation Effective Date
    • Your cancellation is effective from the date we receive your written notice within office working hours before 1700 UK local time, not the date you send it or decide to cancel
    • We recommend using tracked/confirmed delivery methods
  4. Confirmation from Us
    • We will confirm receipt of your cancellation
    • The Impakd team will review the cancellation request and respond with an outcome within 7 working days
    • If eligible for a refund, we will confirm your refund amount
  5. Refund Processing
    • Refunds processed within 14-21 business days
    • Refunded to original payment method
    • Credit card refunds may take additional 3-5 days to appear
No-Shows and Early Departures
  • Failure to Join Tour: If you fail to join the tour on the departure date, no refund will be made
  • Late Arrival: If you join the tour after it has departed, no refund will be made for missed services
  • Early Departure: If you leave the tour before completion for any reason (other than operational cancellation by us, such as circumstances beyond our control, safety concerns, or significant service failures), no refund will be made for unused services

This policy applies to all Impakd Japan and Egypt Tours departing in 2026 and is subject to the full Terms & Conditions

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Ready to Experience EGYPT With Purpose?

Travel slowly. Learn deeply. Connect meaningfully.

IMPAKD