If sun, sea and sand are not enough to satisfy your sense of adventure, then Treasures, Temples and Tombs, a 12-day journey in the company of an Egyptologist could offer an intellectual challenge.

National Geographic Journeys has invited Egyptologist Mohammed Aziz to accompany a small group of travellers to discover of the secrets of the Nile and beyond- including private access to the Great Pyramid and a restricted area by the Sphinx; a private dinner at the Old Winter Palace and an excursion by air to the temples of Abu Simbel, on the banks of the Lake Nasser.

There will also be a private talk from the Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Egyptian Antiquities, Dr Zahi Hawass, and an exclusive visit to the tomb of Nefertari, which is now permanently closed to the public.

The trips departs on September 26 with prices from £3,598 per person.

There is availability for just 12-15 like-minded guests.

Classical Heritage of Libya explores more than 10,000 years of Libyan cultural history, from prehistoric rock paintings in the Southern Sahara to the nomadic traditions of the Tuareg. Led by Neil Faulkner, a field archaeologist, the tour takes in Tripoli, Sabratha, Ghadames, Fezzan, Acacus, Germa, Ubari and Leptis Magna.

There will also be a private dinner in Ghadames with an exclusive cultural show, camping with the Tuareg in the Sahara, a private viewing of the mosaics at the Roman Villa Sileen (normally closed to the public) and a private dinner at the grand Dar Zumit, a restored 19th century caravanserai.

The trip departs on December 10 and prices start from £2,748 per person.

Further details on these and more unique holidays from National Geographic Journeys visit www.ngjourneys.co.uk or call 0800 988 5175.