12 Days Cairo and Nile Cruise and Alexandria with Abu Simbel

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Overview

  • Duration:12 days 11 nights
  • Tour Type:Classic Egypt Tours
  • Duration:12 Days
  • Tour Type:Private Tours
  • Availability:Everyday
  • Pickup / Drop off:Cairo Airport
Embark on a captivating 12-day journey through Egypt, blending ancient wonders with modern culture. Begin in Cairo, exploring the iconic Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Valley Temple of Khafre, along with the Egyptian Museum, Cairo Citadel, and the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Discover Alexandria’s multicultural treasures, including the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, Qaitbay Citadel, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

Fly to Luxor to board a Nile cruise, exploring Karnak, Luxor Temples, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Colossi of Memnon, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan’s Philae Temple, High Dam, and Unfinished Obelisk. Visit the monumental Abu Simbel Temples before returning to Cairo to explore its Coptic and Islamic heritage. Conclude with leisure time and departure. This journey perfectly blends Egypt’s historical grandeur with vibrant local culture.
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Highlights

  • Stand in awe of the Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Valley Temple of Khafre.
  • Explore Saqqara’s Step Pyramid and the ancient city of Memphis.
  • Delve into Egypt’s royal history at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.
  • Visit Cairo Citadel, Mohamed Ali Mosque, and wander through Khan El Khalili Bazaar.
  • Alexandria’s Catacombs , Pompey’s Pillar, Qaitbay Citadel, and Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
  • Board a Nile cruise and explore Luxor East and west Banks
  • Explore Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples along the Nile.
  • Discover Aswan’s High Dam, Philae Temple, and the Unfinished Obelisk.
  • Witness the grandeur of Abu Simbel Temples.
  • Experience Coptic and Islamic Cairo, including ancient churches and medieval streets.
  • Enjoy free time for shopping, felucca rides, or personal exploration.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

Welcome to the Land of Pharaohs!

Upon landing at Cairo International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional representative, who will assist you with luggage and guide you to your private, air-conditioned vehicle. Your journey begins with a scenic drive to your hotel, allowing you to catch your first glimpses of the bustling Egyptian capital. Check in, unwind, and take the rest of the day to relax after your flight.

Cairo’s energy is palpable—from its bustling streets to the Nile glistening in the sun. If time allows, you can take a short walk around the hotel neighborhood or enjoy a cup of traditional Egyptian tea at a nearby café.

Overnight in Cairo

Meals: No Meals

Day 2: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara & Memphis

Start the day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for an exciting journey into Egypt’s ancient past. You’ll meet your guide and depart in a private air-conditioned vehicle.

Giza Pyramids:

Step onto the Giza Plateau and behold the legendary pyramids—symbols of Egypt’s glory and ingenuity. Marvel at the Great Pyramid of Khufu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, alongside the pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure. Your guide will explain the intricate construction techniques, astronomical alignments, and fascinating myths surrounding these monumental tombs.

The Sphinx:

Just a short walk away, encounter the majestic Sphinx, a limestone statue with the body of a lion and the face of a pharaoh. Standing for over 4,500 years, it has inspired countless legends and is one of the world’s most recognizable monuments.

Lunch:

Savor a traditional Egyptian meal at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like koshari, falafel, or grilled kofta.

Saqqara:

Explore the Step Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt’s first monumental stone building and the world’s earliest stone structure. Walk among tombs adorned with hieroglyphs and see the architectural evolution that led to the later Giza pyramids.

Memphis:

Visit the ancient city of Memphis, once the thriving capital of Egypt’s Old Kingdom. Explore its open-air museum, home to statues, including the massive Ramses II statue, and learn about the city’s role in ancient politics, religion, and culture.

Return to Cairo in the evening for relaxation at your hotel.

Overnight: Cairo

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch

Day 3: National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Cairo Citadel & Khan El Khalili

After breakfast, embark on a day exploring Cairo’s cultural and historical heart.

National Museum of Egyptian Civilization:

Delve into Egypt’s history, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Witness intricate artifacts, ancient jewelry, and pottery, and step into the Royal Mummies Hall to see the carefully preserved remains of pharaohs. Your guide will explain mummification techniques, burial rituals, and the spiritual beliefs of ancient Egyptians.

Lunch:

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant with authentic flavors.

Cairo Citadel & Mohamed Ali Mosque:

Visit Saladin’s Citadel, a medieval fortress with panoramic views over the city. Inside, explore the Mohamed Ali Mosque, known as the Alabaster Mosque, featuring Ottoman-style domes, grand chandeliers, and intricate marble interiors. Learn about Egypt’s history during the Mamluk and Ottoman periods.

Khan El Khalili Bazaar:

Wander through one of the world’s oldest markets, where the air is filled with the aroma of spices and incense. Browse for handmade jewelry, traditional textiles, perfumes, and antiques. Sip on mint tea in a local café and absorb the vibrant atmosphere.

Return to your hotel in Cairo to relax.

Overnight: Cairo

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch

Day 4: Alexandria Day Tours

After your delicious breakfast at your hotel, our representative will meet you and accompany you in a private air-conditioned vehicle to Alexandria to visit:

Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa:

The catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa are an ancient burial site in Alexandria. It was discovered in 1900 and is believed to date back to the 2nd century AD. The catacombs feature a series of chambers and tunnels, with intricate carvings and decorations that blend Egyptian, Greek, and Roman styles.

Pompey's Pillar:

Pompey's Pillar is a Roman triumphal column located in Alexandria. It stands over 25 meters tall and is made of red Aswan granite. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with the Roman general Pompey and was erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD.

Lunch

Lunch break at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will complete your tour by visiting:

Qaitbay Citadel:

Qaitbay Citadel is a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The citadel is known for its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Alexandria Library:

The Alexandria Library, built in 2002, is a tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria and houses over 8 million books, along with museums and exhibition halls. Its modern architecture, with a large glass facade and a sloping roof resembling a sundial, is also notable.

After completing your tour, our representative will accompany you in a private air-conditioned car, accompany you on your return trip to Cairo, and take you to your hotel for rest.

Overnight in Cairo

Meals: Breakfast - Lunch

Day 5: Cairo to Luxor – East Bank Temples

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Luxor, the world’s largest open-air museum.

Karnak Temple:

Explore this sprawling temple complex, dedicated to Amun-Ra, with its towering hypostyle hall of 134 massive columns. Your guide will share stories of pharaohs, gods, and ceremonies held here over 2,000 years.

Luxor Temple:

Visit the magnificent temple built by Amenhotep III and Ramses II. Walk along the Avenue of Sphinxes, admire the monumental pylons, and hear tales of royal processions and ancient rituals.

Return to your cruise for lunch, relaxation, and a sumptuous dinner onboard as you prepare to sail the Nile.

Overnight on Cruise

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

Day 6: Luxor West Bank & Sail to Edfu

After your delicious breakfast on board the cruise, our representative will company you in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to visit:

Valley of the Kings:

Enter the burial grounds of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, decorated with intricate wall paintings depicting the journey to the afterlife.

Hatshepsut Temple:

Marvel at the terraced temple of Egypt’s female pharaoh, with reliefs narrating her reign, divine birth, and trade expeditions.

Colossi of Memnon:

See these two massive statues standing as silent witnesses to Luxor’s glorious past.

Return to your cruise for lunch, relaxation, and an evening Galabia party, followed by dinner.

Overnight on Cruise

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

Day 7: Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples

After your delicious breakfast on board the cruise, our representative will company you in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to visit:

Temple of Edfu:

One of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, dedicated to Horus the Falcon God, featuring remarkable inscriptions and carvings.

Kom Ombo Temple:

A unique double temple honoring both Horus and Sobek, the crocodile god. Walk through twin sanctuaries and view striking reliefs and hieroglyphs.

Return to the cruise for lunch, then continue sailing to Aswan. Evening includes dinner and another Galabia show.

Overnight on Cruise

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

Day 8: Aswan City Tour

After your delicious breakfast on board the cruise, our representative will company you in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to visit:

Aswan High Dam:

Discover one of the modern engineering marvels of the world, controlling Nile floods and generating electricity for Egypt.

Philae Temple:

Visit this beautiful island temple dedicated to Isis, with towering pylons, intricate carvings, and serene surroundings.

Unfinished Obelisk:

Learn about ancient stone-carving techniques while viewing the largest known ancient obelisk, left incomplete in its granite quarry.

Return to the cruise for lunch, relaxation, and dinner with traditional entertainment.

Overnight on Cruise

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

Day 9: Abu Simbel & Return to Cairo

In the morning, take your breakfast in a Box from your Cruise, and our representative will accompany you in a private air-conditioned vehicle to visit:

Abu Simbel Temples:

Be amazed by the colossal statues of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari, relocated to save them from flooding. Hear the stories of this monumental architectural achievement and the gods they honor.

Lunch:

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.

After lunch, take a flight back to Cairo and transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Cairo

Meals: Breakfast (Box) – Lunch

Day 10: Coptic & Islamic Cairo

After your delicious breakfast at your hotel, our representative will meet you and accompany you in a private air-conditioned vehicle to visit:

Islamic Cairo:

Walk through medieval streets, visiting mosques, madrasas, and monuments, reflecting Egypt’s Islamic heritage and architectural elegance.

Coptic Cairo:

Explore ancient Christian churches, including Hanging Church and St. Sergius Church, witnessing centuries of faith and history.

Lunch:

Enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal at a local restaurant.

Return to your hotel for rest and personal exploration.

Overnight: Cairo

Meals: Breakfast – Lunch

Day 11: Free Day in Cairo

Enjoy a full day at leisure. Options include exploring local markets, visiting museums, taking a Nile felucca ride, or relaxing at your hotel. This is your day to enjoy Cairo at your own pace.

Overnight: Cairo

Meals: Breakfast

Day 12: Departure

After breakfast, your representative will transfer you to Cairo International Airport in a private air-conditioned vehicle for your onward journey, marking the end of your unforgettable Egyptian adventure.

Meals: Breakfast

Includes/Excludes

  • Meet and Assist in the Airport.
  • All transport by private air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Accommodation for 7 nights in Cairo hotel.
  • Accommodation for 4 nights in 5* Cruise.
  • Domestic Flights: Cairo to Luxor / Aswan to Cairo
  • Private guided tours.
  • Entry fees to all sites as per itinerary.
  • Bottled water during trips.
  • All service charges & taxes.
  • Entry visa to Egypt
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional activities
  • Tipping

Price Policy

All tour prices are listed in USD per person, per trip. Payments can be made securely online through our trusted payment gateway, with no additional fees or hidden surcharges. This ensures a clear and transparent pricing structure for every traveler.

Payment:

To secure your booking, we recommend reserving as early as possible so we can guarantee availability on your preferred dates. A 25% deposit is required to confirm your reservation, and this amount is deducted from your total balance. The remaining payment can be settled before or upon arrival, depending on the tour requirements.

Children Policy:

We welcome families with children and offer special rates based on age:

  • 0 to 5.99 years – Free of charge when sharing accommodation with parents
  • 6 to 11.99 years – Charged 50% of the adult rate
  • 12 years and above – Charged at the full adult rate

This policy ensures fair pricing for families while maintaining comfort and convenience throughout the trip.

Cancellation Policy

If your plans change, our cancellation policy applies as follows:

  • Less than 30 days before arrival: 100% of the tour price is charged
  • 31 to 60 days before arrival: 50% of the tour price is charged
  • 61 to 90 days before arrival: 15% of the tour price is charged

We recommend notifying us as early as possible in case of cancellation to minimize any applicable fees.

Frequently asked questions

Is Egypt safe to travel to?

Egypt is considered a safe destination for tourists, especially in major travel hubs like Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. These cities receive millions of visitors every year and have dedicated tourism police, well-secured attractions, and strict safety protocols. Tourist sites, hotels, and airports maintain high security standards, and local authorities continuously monitor major travel areas. As with any international trip, visitors should stay aware of their surroundings, follow their guide’s instructions, and use reputable travel companies. When you travel with a licensed operator, your itinerary, transportation, and local assistance are handled by professionals who prioritize safety at every step.

How can I book a tour?

Booking a tour is easy and flexible. You can reserve through our website booking form, send us an email, or simply contact us through WhatsApp for instant communication. Once you choose your preferred itinerary, our team will check availability, confirm all details, and guide you through the booking and payment process. We provide full trip information, what to bring, start times, and everything you need to prepare. You will also receive a confirmation voucher and emergency contact numbers for peace of mind. Our customer support team is available daily to answer questions and help you select the best options for your travel dates.

Can I edit or add anything to this tour?

Yes, all our tours are fully customizable. We understand that every traveler has unique interests, so we’re happy to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences. You can add extra sites, extend the tour, upgrade meal options, include special activities like a felucca ride or desert adventure, or even build a completely personalized route. If you have special requests—such as dietary needs, additional photo stops, or private guiding—we can arrange it. Just tell us what you want to change, and our team will tailor the experience to fit your schedule, pace, and travel style.

Which currency is most widely accepted on this tour?

The main currency used in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), but most tourist services also accept U.S. Dollars (USD) due to their stability and popularity among travelers. Euros and British Pounds are commonly accepted in hotels, souvenir shops, and some restaurants. For small purchases such as drinks, snacks, or tips, we recommend carrying a bit of Egyptian Pounds. ATMs are available in most major cities, and currency exchange offices are easy to find. If you plan to pay for optional experiences, many vendors prefer USD or EGP, so having a combination of both is helpful.

Can I schedule a tour at any time of day?

In most cases, yes—you can choose the tour start time that best matches your itinerary. Full-day tours generally begin early to make the most of the cooler morning hours and avoid traffic, but late-morning and afternoon departures are possible depending on the destination. Some activities have fixed schedules; for example, sunrise hot air balloon rides in Luxor, evening Sound & Light Shows at the Pyramids, or specific temple opening hours. Our team will advise you on the best timing to ensure ideal lighting, fewer crowds, and the best overall experience, especially for photography or comfort during the hotter months.

Can I pay by credit card?

Yes, we accept credit card payments for most tours. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly used, and payments are processed through secure online gateways to protect your information. Some services may also accept American Express depending on the provider. If you prefer, you can pay a deposit online and settle the remaining balance in cash upon arrival—either in USD, EUR, or EGP. We aim to make payment as smooth as possible, offering several methods so you can choose what works best for you.

Is tipping included in the tour price?

Tipping is usually not included in the tour price unless clearly stated. In Egypt, tipping (known locally as “baksheesh”) is a traditional part of the hospitality culture, and it’s a way to show appreciation for good service. Guides, drivers, hotel staff, and boat crew often rely on tips as part of their income. We can provide recommended tipping guidelines based on your tour type and group size, but the amount is always up to you. You are free to tip depending on your satisfaction with the service provided.

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