12-Day Egypt Tour – Pharaohs, Pyramids & Nile Cruise

Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Location: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Hurghada
Tour type: Private & Small Group Tours Available
Pickup: Cairo International Airport (Arrival & Departure)
Availability: Available Year-Round
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Luxury Nile cruise with views of Egypt’s Pyramids, temples, and Red Sea beaches on a 12-day tour

Explore Egypt: Nile & Pharaohs

This 12-day Egypt tour – Pharaohs, Pyramids & Nile Cruise shows the best of Egypt in one unforgettable journey. Overall, it blends ancient history, Nile sailing, and Red Sea relaxation.

First, start in Cairo. Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum. Also, explore Memphis and Coptic Cairo to see Egypt’s rich culture and history.

Next, fly to Aswan. Enjoy the calm Nile and visit Philae Temple, the High Dam, and the Unfinished Obelisk. Then, board a luxury Nile cruise. Along the way, stop at Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples. Relax on deck, watch river life, and enjoy the sunsets.

Then, explore Luxor, the world’s largest open-air museum. Walk through the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and Hatshepsut Temple. At each site, your expert Egyptologist guide shares stories of pharaohs and ancient life.

Finally, unwind in Hurghada on the Red Sea. Swim, snorkel, or lounge on the beach. Optional activities include desert safaris, Bedouin dinners, and island trips. This way, you balance sightseeing with relaxation.

In conclusion, this 12-day tour includes private guides, 4–5★ hotels, domestic flights, and smooth transfers. Therefore, it is ideal for families, couples, and first-time visitors who want a full, stress-free Egypt experience.

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Why You’ll Love This Tour

Egypt’s Iconic Wonders

Immerse yourself in Egypt’s timeless history with visits to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, the grand Karnak Temple complex, Luxor Temple, and the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples. Explore Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, and Hatshepsut Temple, where pharaohs’ stories and ancient hieroglyphs come vividly to life. Perfect for history lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, and cultural travelers seeking an unforgettable journey through ancient civilization.

Luxury Nile Cruise Experience

Sail the Nile in style aboard a 5-star luxury cruise, with elegantly appointed cabins, panoramic river views, and world-class service. Visit hidden gems along the Nile, including Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and Philae Temple, and enjoy sunset felucca rides, on-board entertainment, and guided excursions. A perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and scenic exploration for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Expert Egyptologist Guides

Gain deep insights into Egypt’s rich heritage with professional Egyptologist guides, who bring ancient history to life through stories, legends, and fascinating archaeological facts. Learn about the pharaohs, hieroglyphs, temples, and tombs, and enjoy a fully immersive experience that combines education with adventure.

Hassle-Free & Seamless Travel

Enjoy private airport transfers, domestic flights, and fully organized transportation between Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea. Every detail is taken care of, from hotel check-ins to cruise embarkation, ensuring a smooth, comfortable, and stress-free Egyptian adventure.

Red Sea Relaxation & Adventure

Unwind at a luxury beachfront resort on the Red Sea, with golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class amenities. Choose from snorkeling and diving excursions, glass-bottom boat trips, desert safaris, quad biking, or Bedouin cultural experiences, for the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Authentic Egyptian Encounters

Experience Egypt’s vibrant culture with visits to local markets, traditional Nubian villages, and authentic street food experiences. Meet locals, taste regional specialties, and participate in cultural rituals, offering a genuine connection to the country’s rich traditions and warm hospitality.

Tour Highlights: Discover Ancient History

12 Days Pharaoh’s Grand Expedition – Pyramids, Nile Cruise & Red Sea Adventure in Egypt

Pyramids of Giza

Stand before the Great Pyramids of Giza, the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World. Marvel at the precise engineering, massive scale, and mysterious aura of these iconic monuments that have fascinated travelers for millennia. Perfect for photography and cultural exploration.

The Sphinx

Gaze upon the enigmatic Sphinx, guardian of the Giza Plateau, with its timeless expression and legendary history. Capture incredible photos of this monumental statue alongside the pyramids.

Memphis

Visit the ancient capital of Egypt, Memphis, home to colossal statues, including Ramses II, and open-air ruins that showcase the beginnings of pharaonic civilization. Learn about the city’s historical and cultural significance in Egypt’s early history.

Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

Explore the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian treasures, including King Tutankhamun’s golden artifacts, mummies, statues, and thousands of relics that reveal Egypt’s 5,000-year history. Optional guided tours provide deep insights into daily life, rituals, and mythology.

Philae Temple

Visit Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, gracefully set on an island in the Nile. Surrounded by tranquil waters, it offers a serene experience with stunning views of Aswan’s river landscape.

Unfinished Obelisk

See the Unfinished Obelisk, a massive granite monolith still in its original quarry. Discover how ancient Egyptians mastered stone carving techniques and engineering feats thousands of years ago.

Aswan High Dam

Discover the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that transformed the Nile and Egypt’s agriculture. Learn about its construction, economic significance, and the creation of Lake Nasser.

Abu Simbel Temples

Visit the monumental Abu Simbel Temples, carved by Ramses II into a mountainside. Admire colossal statues, intricate carvings, and the remarkable relocation of the temples to save them from Lake Nasser’s rising waters.

Kom Ombo Temple

Explore the double temple of Kom Ombo, uniquely dedicated to Sobek and Horus. Its Nile-facing location, detailed hieroglyphics, and historical significance make it a fascinating stop.

Edfu Temple

Step inside the Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples. Marvel at intricate reliefs, inscriptions, and monumental architecture, showcasing ancient religious practices.

Karnak Temple

Wander through Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex in the world. Explore towering columns, sacred obelisks, and a sacred lake, reflecting the grandeur of ancient Thebes.

Luxor Temple

Visit Luxor Temple, a majestic complex dedicated to the Theban Triad. Illuminated in the evening, it offers a magical glimpse into ancient Egyptian temple rituals and ceremonies.

Valley of the Kings

Step inside the tombs of pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings. Discover vibrant wall paintings, hieroglyphics, and treasures intended to guide rulers safely into the afterlife.

Hatshepsut Temple

Admire the mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut, built into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. A masterpiece of New Kingdom architecture, it commemorates one of Egypt’s most remarkable female pharaohs.

Colossi of Memnon

See the Colossi of Memnon, two giant statues of Amenhotep III standing sentinel over the Nile Valley. These iconic monuments showcase the grandeur and engineering skill of ancient Egypt.

Red Sea Beaches (Hurghada)

Relax on the sun-kissed beaches of Hurghada, swim in the turquoise waters of the Red Sea, or enjoy peaceful seaside walks. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simple relaxation.

Snorkeling & Diving (Hurghada) – Optional

Explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter exotic fish on a snorkeling or diving adventure. Suitable for beginners and experienced divers, with full equipment and guides provided.

Desert Safari & Quad Biking (Hurghada) – Optional

Venture into the Egyptian desert for an exhilarating 4×4 or quad bike adventure. Visit traditional Bedouin villages and enjoy the unique desert landscape.

Bedouin Dinner & Stargazing (Hurghada) – Optional

Experience a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars, with local music, authentic cuisine, and storytelling in a serene desert setting.

Itinerary

Day 1, Arrival in Cairo, Welcome to Egypt

Arrive at Cairo International Airport, where you are warmly met and assisted before a private transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing after your flight or enjoying your first glimpse of Egypt’s vibrant capital.

🛏 Overnight: Cairo
🍽 Meals: No meals included
Optional Tours: Evening Nile dinner cruise, Cairo by night city tour

Day 2, Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Memphis

Explore Egypt’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the ancient city of Memphis, Egypt’s first capital. Discover colossal statues and open-air ruins that reveal the birth of pharaonic civilization.

🛏 Overnight: Cairo
🍽 Meals: Breakfast
Optional Tours: Camel ride at the pyramids, Pyramids Sound and Light Show, Saqqara Step Pyramid

Day 3, Grand Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili, Flight to Aswan

Step into history at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), home to the world’s most important ancient Egyptian artifacts. Later, explore Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a lively marketplace filled with local crafts and culture. In the evening, fly to Aswan and enjoy a peaceful Nile-side stay.

🛏 Overnight: Aswan
🍽 Meals: Breakfast
Optional Tours: Islamic Cairo tour, Al-Muizz Street walking tour

Day 4, Aswan Highlights and Nile Cruise Embarkation

Visit Philae Temple, beautifully set on a Nile island and dedicated to the goddess Isis. Enjoy a traditional felucca sail on the Nile before embarking on your Nile cruise, beginning an unforgettable journey along Egypt’s legendary river.

🛏 Overnight: On board the Nile cruise
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Tours: Nubian Village visit, Aswan Sound and Light Show

Day 5, Abu Simbel Temples and Sailing to Kom Ombo

Travel early to the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples, carved into the rock by Ramses II. After returning, relax on board as the cruise sails toward Kom Ombo, passing palm-lined riverbanks and traditional villages.

🛏 Overnight: On board the Nile cruise
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Tours: Extra felucca sailing, cultural evening on board

Day 6, Edfu Temple and Luxor

Visit the Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, showcasing intricate carvings and ancient inscriptions. Continue sailing toward Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes, where history comes alive. Upon arrival, explore the majestic Karnak Temple, famous for its massive columns, obelisks, and sacred lake, and then visit the Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated in the evening, offering a magical glimpse into Egypt’s temple rituals.

🛏 Overnight: On board the Nile cruise
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Tours: Karnak Sound and Light Show, Luxor Temple evening tour, Luxor city tour by night

Day 7, Luxor West Bank and Transfer to Hurghada

Explore Luxor’s legendary West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and Colossi of Memnon. After the tour, travel by road to Hurghada, where the desert meets the crystal-clear Red Sea.

🛏 Overnight: Hurghada
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Tours: Hot air balloon ride over Luxor

Day 8, Hurghada, Red Sea Leisure

Begin your Red Sea escape with a full day of relaxation. Lounge on the golden beaches, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, or enjoy resort amenities such as the pool, spa, or private cabanas.

🛏 Overnight: Hurghada
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Tours & Activities (all fully operational, bookable):

  • Beach leisure and sunbathing

  • Spa treatments and massages

  • Sunset walk along the marina

  • Poolside relaxation with refreshments

  • Resort-based entertainment and fitness activities

Day 9, Hurghada, Snorkeling and Marine Life

Discover the underwater wonders of the Red Sea. Join a fully guided snorkeling or diving trip to explore coral reefs and colorful marine life. Families can enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour for a relaxing and safe experience.

🛏 Overnight: Hurghada
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Tours & Activities (all fully operational, bookable):

  • Guided snorkeling trips with equipment provided

  • Scuba diving excursions with certified instructors

  • Glass-bottom boat tours for families and non-swimmers

  • Underwater photography experiences

  • Coral reef and marine life discovery tours

Day 10, Hurghada, Desert Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Egyptian desert. Take a guided desert safari by 4×4 or quad bike, explore sand dunes, visit a traditional Bedouin village, and enjoy authentic cultural experiences.

🛏 Overnight: Hurghada
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Tours & Activities (all fully operational, bookable):

  • 4×4 desert safari across golden dunes

  • Quad biking adventure

  • Visit to a traditional Bedouin camp with tea and snacks

  • Camel riding experiences

  • Evening Bedouin dinner under the stars

  • Desert stargazing and cultural storytelling

Day 11, Hurghada, Free Day or Island Excursion

Relax at your resort or take a full-day excursion to explore the Red Sea’s islands. Swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy pristine beaches on a private yacht or boat.

🛏 Overnight: Hurghada
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Tours & Activities (all fully operational, bookable):

  • Private yacht excursions along the Red Sea

  • Full-day trips to Orange Bay or Giftun Island

  • Snorkeling and diving at coral reefs around the islands

  • Beach picnic and sunbathing on pristine sand

  • Island exploration and swimming in turquoise waters

  • Water sports including paddleboarding and kayaking

Day 12, Departure via Cairo

Your unforgettable Egyptian adventure concludes today. Transfer to Hurghada Airport for your domestic flight to Cairo, connecting with your international departure. Leave Egypt with memories of ancient wonders, Nile landscapes, and the sparkling Red Sea.

🛏 Overnight: Not applicable
🍽 Meals: Breakfast.

Flight Advice ✈️

Domestic Flights:

  • Cairo → Aswan: Book an after 5 PM flight to maximize your day for sightseeing in Cairo before departure.

Customize Your Itinerary as You Like
  • Flexible Start & End: Begin or end in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, or Sharm.

  • Extended Stays: Add extra nights in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, or Red Sea resorts.

  • Cultural & Historical Tours: Explore Cairo, Alexandria, Saqqara, Dahshur, Luxor, and Thebes.

  • Fully Tailored: Swap destinations, customize daily activities, start/end anywhere, and combine ancient Egypt, Nile cruises, and Red Sea experiences.

What’s included

Meet & assist at the airport.

All private transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.

3 nights in a luxury Cairo hotel (breakfast included).

1 night in a boutique Aswan hotel.

3-night 5-star Nile cruise (full board – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

3 nights in a 5-star Red Sea resort (half board – Breakfast, Dinner).

Guided tours with professional Egyptologists.

Entrance fees to all listed sites.

Exclusive cultural experiences.

All service charges & taxes.

What’s not included

International flights.
Domestic flights (Cairo-Aswan & Hurghada-Cairo).
Egypt entry visa.
Optional activities (quad biking, snorkeling, etc.).
Personal expenses & gratuities.
Drinks & additional meals not mentioned.

Suggestions

  • 👕 Dress Comfortably: Lightweight clothing, hats, and sunglasses are recommended for daytime excursions.
  • 💧 Stay Hydrated: Carry bottled water during sightseeing, especially in hot weather.
  • 👟 Comfortable Shoes: Many sites involve walking on uneven surfaces.
  • 🕌 Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • 📸 Cameras & Phones: Keep them charged and ready to capture unforgettable moments.
  • 🎈 Optional Experiences: Hot air balloon ride in Luxor, felucca ride on the Nile, or snorkeling/diving in the Red Sea.

Tour Pricing

Upon Request

  • Private guide in different languages
  • Customized itinerary or extended stays
  • Luxury vehicle or upgraded transport
  • Special meals or dietary requirements
  • Additional activities or excursions
  • Price available upon request

These additional services can be arranged to create a fully personalized and seamless experience in Egypt.

Kids Policy

0-5 years old
Free of charge (must sit on parents’ lap; separate seats may require extra payment).
6-11 years old
50% of the adult price.
12 years old
Full adult price applies.

Notes

📝 Essential Notes & Travel Tips

1️⃣ Flexible Itineraries: Start from Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, or Hurghada and tailor your route, pace, and activities. 2️⃣ Stay & Cruise Options: Hotels: 5★ Luxury | 4★ Comfort | Boutique in Aswan Nile Cruise: 5-star, full board Red Sea Resort: 5-star, half board 3️⃣ Tour Guide & Languages: Private Egyptologist guides in multiple languages for all major sites. 4️⃣ Flights & Transfers: Domestic flights (Cairo → Aswan, Hurghada → Cairo) plus private transfers and airport assistance. 5️⃣ Optional Experiences: Hot air balloon in Luxor, felucca rides, desert safari, snorkeling/diving, Sound & Light Shows, Nubian Village visit. 6️⃣ Valley of the Kings Tickets: Tutankhamun and Ramses VI require separate tickets; Hatshepsut included. Early arrival recommended; photography limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Practical Travel Advices

Visa & Entry Requirements +
Transportation & Getting Around +
Currency, Payments & Money Exchange +
Health, Safety & Security Tips +
Communication, SIM Cards & Internet Access +
What language is spoken in Egypt, and will I need to know Arabic? +
What is Egypt’s time zone and typical business hours? +
Do I need travel insurance, and what about medical care in Egypt? +
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