Bunnik Tours clients were part of a historic moment on 6 November 2025, stepping inside Egypt’s newly debuted Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) on its very first day open to the public.
A Bunnik Tours group was at the front of the queue and became the first visitors to enter Tutankhamun’s gallery of treasures. Of the first 15 people in the room that morning, nine were travelling on Bunnik Tours’ 16-day Egyptian Discovery tour, led by senior Egyptologist Eman Bahaa.
The GEM, now home to Tutankhamun’s legendary Gold Death Mask and more than 5,000 other artifacts, brings together the boy king’s treasures for the first time, marking an unprecedented moment in Egyptology.
“My plan worked — we were able to be the first into the gallery,” said Eman Bahaa. “It was an incredible experience for my Bunnik Tours guests, and for me personally. Seeing the GEM open and Tutankhamun’s treasures displayed in full is a dream come true.”
Bunnik Tours traveller Sandi Dent described the scene: “Within an hour, it was 10 deep around Tutankhamun’s gold death mask. We were truly blessed that Eman made this happen.”
Standing at the foot of the Great Pyramids of Giza, the GEM has been hailed as one of the most significant cultural openings of the 21st century — a breathtaking fusion of modern architecture and ancient heritage. From the glittering halls of Tutankhamun’s treasures to the imposing statues of Ramses II and newly restored artifacts never before seen by the public, the museum is a gateway to 7,000 years of Egyptian history.
For over 30 years, Bunnik Tours has offered Australians authentic, intimate access to the world’s greatest stories. Egypt has long been a favourite destination, and the opening of the GEM is set to reignite travellers’ fascination with the land of the pharaohs. The museum is now featured across Bunnik Tours’ Egypt itineraries, ensuring guests experience this landmark attraction firsthand.
“Reading about ancient Egypt is one thing, but nothing compares to standing face to face with it,” said Dennis Bunnik, Joint-CEO of Bunnik Tours. “Our guests weren’t just visiting a museum — they were witnessing history being made.
“Moments like this remind us why we travel,” Bunnik added. “To stand where history unfolds and feel the connection between past and present. That’s something our travellers will carry with them forever.”
With expertly crafted itineraries and knowledgeable Egyptologist guides who bring history to life, Bunnik Tours continues to connect travellers with Egypt’s culture, history, and people in meaningful ways. The GEM’s opening marks a major milestone for Egypt’s tourism and reinforces its status as a must-visit destination in 2026.
