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Egypt · Package

The Best of Egypt in 12 Days

Duration
12 Days 11 Nights
Tour type
Private, your party only
Guide language
English · more on request
About this tour

About The Best of Egypt in 12 Days

Embark on an extraordinary 12-day journey through Egypt’s most iconic ancient sites, combining exclusive archaeological experiences, world-famous monuments, and a relaxing Nile Cruise. Beginning in Cairo, explore the remarkable necropolises of Saqqara and Dahshur, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the Red Pyramid, and the Bent Pyramid, before discovering the treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum.

Fly to Luxor to uncover the magnificent temples of Dendera and Abydos, the legendary Valley of the Kings, and the breathtaking Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Continue your adventure aboard a luxury Nile Cruise, sailing through the heart of ancient Egypt while visiting Karnak Temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, Philae Temple, and the historic landmarks of Aswan.

Return to Cairo to explore the renowned Egyptian Museum, venture into the fascinating archaeological landscapes of Fayoum, and stand before the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza. A rare private visit inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu offers an unforgettable highlight, providing exclusive access to its internal chambers away from the crowds.

Combining expert-guided sightseeing, carefully selected accommodations, domestic flights, and a luxury Nile Cruise, this itinerary offers an in-depth exploration of Egypt’s ancient civilization while ensuring comfort, exclusivity, and unforgettable memories throughout the journey.

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🏨✨ Accommodation & Pricing (September to April)

  • Below prices not applicable during Christmas, New Year, or Easter
Room Type Price
👤 Double Room $4820 Per Person
🚶 Single Room $7760

🌟Hotels & Nile Cruise:

  • Cairo Hotel: Hyatt Centric Cairo hotel, or similar.
  • Cruise: Blue Shadow III Nile Cruise or similar
  • Luxor Hotel: Jolie Ville Luxor Hotel or similar

📌 Important Notes:

Price Policy Confirmation Policy Cancellation Policy Children Policy Tipping

The programme

Day by day

01 Day 1: Arrival in Cairo - 01 Dec 2026

Welcome to Egypt. Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be greeted by your tour manager, who will assist you with all arrival formalities. You will then be transferred in a Small Group air-conditioned vehicle to your hotel for check-in and relaxation after your journey.

Overnight: Cairo

02 Day 2: Saqqara & Dahshur Exploration - 02 Dec 2026

After breakfast, depart for Saqqara, one of Egypt’s most remarkable archaeological treasures. Begin with a visit to the Imhotep Museum before exploring the famous Serapeum, the underground necropolis of the sacred Apis bulls, where enormous granite sarcophagi reveal fascinating aspects of ancient Egyptian religious practices.

Continue to the Step Pyramid Complex of King Djoser, the world's earliest monumental stone structure. Enjoy special access beneath the Step Pyramid through the Southern Entrance and visit the Southern Tomb. Following lunch at a traditional local house, travel to Dahshur, the royal necropolis that witnessed the evolution of pyramid construction. Explore the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid of King Snefru before returning to Cairo.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Cairo

03 Day 3: Grand Egyptian Museum & Flight to Luxor - 03 Dec 2026

Following breakfast and hotel check-out, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, the world’s largest archaeological museum, housing an extraordinary collection of ancient Egyptian treasures. After lunch, transfer to Cairo International Airport for your flight to Luxor.

Upon arrival, transfer to your resort and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Luxor

04 Day 4: Dendera & Abydos Temples - 04 Dec 2026

After an early breakfast, depart for Dendera to visit the magnificent Temple of Hathor, renowned for its remarkably preserved reliefs, colorful ceilings, and the famous Zodiac of Dendera.

Continue to Abydos, one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers of ancient Egypt. After lunch, explore the Temple of Seti I, celebrated for its exceptional artistry and the famous Abydos King List, an invaluable record of Egypt’s pharaohs. For groups of more than 20 participants, a private visit to the mysterious Osirion may be arranged.

Return to Luxor in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Luxor

05 Day 5: Luxor West Bank & Luxor Temple - 05 Dec 2026

fter breakfast and check-out, cross to Luxor’s West Bank to discover the treasures of ancient Thebes. Begin at the legendary Valley of the Kings, the final resting place of the New Kingdom pharaohs, renowned for its richly decorated tombs.

Continue to the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, an architectural masterpiece dramatically set against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari. An optional visit to a traditional alabaster workshop can also be arranged.

Following the tour, board your Nile Cruise and enjoy lunch on board. In the evening, visit the beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple, one of Egypt’s most impressive monuments dedicated to the god Amun.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Nile Cruise (Luxor)

06 Day 6: Karnak Temple & Sailing to Edfu - 06 Dec 2026

Optional Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Experience

Soar above Luxor at sunrise for breathtaking panoramic views of the Nile Valley, ancient temples, and the Valley of the Kings. This unforgettable experience offers a unique perspective on one of the world’s greatest archaeological landscapes.

After breakfast, visit the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, the largest religious complex ever constructed. Explore its vast halls, towering columns, sacred precincts, the Open-Air Museum, and the Chapel of the Seven Gates.

Return to the cruise for lunch before beginning your journey south toward Edfu while enjoying the changing scenery along the Nile.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Nile Cruise (Edfu)

07 Day 7: Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples - 07 Dec 2026

After breakfast, visit the Temple of Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt and dedicated to Horus, the falcon god. Admire its towering pylons, monumental gateways, and beautifully preserved inscriptions.

Return to the cruise and sail toward Kom Ombo. Upon arrival, explore the unique double temple dedicated jointly to Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Afterwards, continue sailing south toward Aswan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Nile Cruise (Aswan)

08 Day 8: Philae Temple, Unfinished Obelisk & Elephantine Island - 08 Dec 2026

After breakfast, take a scenic boat ride to Philae Island, home to the enchanting Temple of Isis, one of Egypt’s most elegant and beautifully preserved temples.

Continue to the Unfinished Obelisk, offering fascinating insight into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques. An optional visit to a local essential oils boutique may also be arranged.

After lunch on board, enjoy a boat excursion to Elephantine Island, where you will visit the ancient Temples of Satet and Khnum while taking in spectacular views of the Nile.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Nile Cruise (Aswan)

09 Day 9: Return to Cairo & Egyptian Museum - 09 Dec 2026

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Aswan Airport for your flight to Cairo.

Upon arrival, visit the historic Egyptian Museum, home to one of the world’s most significant collections of ancient Egyptian antiquities. Highlights include rare stone vessels, the Unfinished Box, and the enigmatic Schist Disc.

Following lunch, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Cairo

10 Day 10: Fayoum Archaeological Tour - 10 Dec 2026

After an early breakfast, travel to Fayoum, a region rich in history and continuously inhabited since prehistoric times.

Visit the Pyramid of Hawara and the remains traditionally associated with the legendary Labyrinth. Continue to the Lahun Pyramid, where you may explore the interior and learn about its unique construction.

Proceed to the Pyramid of Meidum, one of Egypt’s most intriguing monuments, illustrating the transition toward true pyramid architecture. The visit also includes Mastaba 17, home to an impressive granite sarcophagus hidden deep underground.

Return to Cairo in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Cairo

11 Day 11: Giza Plateau & Exclusive Great Pyramid Access - 11 Dec 2026

After breakfast, visit the Giza Plateau, home to Egypt’s most iconic monuments and the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World.

Explore the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Sphinx, and the Valley Temple of Khafre. An optional camel ride across the desert plateau is available.

Following lunch, enjoy a rare private visit inside the Great Pyramid. With exclusive access away from the crowds, explore the King's Chamber, the Queen's Chamber, and the mysterious Subterranean Chamber deep beneath the monument. This extraordinary experience offers unparalleled insight into one of humanity’s greatest architectural achievements.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Cairo

12 Day 12: Departure from Cairo - 12 Dec 2026

After breakfast, check out from your hotel. Your representative will accompany you to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your unforgettable Egyptian adventure to a close.

Meals: Breakfast

The quote

What's in the price, and what isn't

Included

  • Meet and Assist service at the Airport.
  • All Transfers by a Small Group A/C Buses.
  • Domestic flight tickets from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo.
  • Accommodation for 5 nights at Hyatt Centric hotel,B.B.
  • Accommodation for 2 nights at Jolie Ville Luxor Hotel,B.B
  • Accommodation for 4 nights at Blue Shadow III Nile Cruise, Full Board.
  • Entrance fees to all sites as indicated on the itinerary.
  • English-speaking tour guide during the visits.
  • Bottled water during the visits.
  • All service charges and taxes

Not included

  • Entry Visa to Egypt
  • Any Optional tours.
  • All personal Expenses.
  • Tipping (Recommend).
Questions we get on this tour

Asked and answered

How much will it cost to tour Egypt?

The cost of touring Egypt depends on the type of experience you want. Budget travelers can spend as little as $50 to $100 per day, while luxury tours may range between $200 and $400 daily. At Egy Vacations, we offer customized packages, starting from affordable group tours to exclusive private adventures.

Is it safe to tour Egypt now?

Yes, Egypt is safe to visit! The government prioritizes the safety of tourists, and popular areas such as Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts are secure and welcoming. With Egy Vacations, we ensure a smooth and worry-free experience from the moment you arrive.

How many days do you need to tour Egypt?

For a comprehensive experience, 7 to 10 days is ideal. This allows you to explore Cairo, the Pyramids, Luxor, and Aswan, and even enjoy some relaxation by the Red Sea. Shorter itineraries of 3–5 days can also cover key highlights, perfect for travelers with limited time.

Which month is best to visit Egypt?

The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months, from October to April. This period offers pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing at the Pyramids and the ancient temples of Upper Egypt.

Is Egypt safe for female tourists?

Absolutely. Female tourists will find Egypt to be safe, especially if they respect local customs and dress modestly in more conservative areas. Joining guided tours like those offered by Egy Vacations adds an extra layer of safety and convenience.

Is Egypt cheap or expensive?

Egypt is generally affordable, especially compared to many other popular tourist destinations. While luxury experiences and accommodations can be costly, local food, transportation, and sightseeing are budget-friendly. At Egy Vacations, we aim to deliver unforgettable experiences within your budget.

Why book with us

Licensed, local, andone WhatsApp away.

We are not a marketplace reselling someone else's tours. The consultant who plans your itinerary is the same person who answers when you message from Luxor at midnight.

Licensed tour operator

Registered with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism, licence no. 1995 — a number you can check before you pay anyone anything.

Our own guides

Licensed Egyptologists lead every excursion, named in your confirmation, working for us rather than for a subcontractor.

Private by default

No group fillers and no shopping stops. Your party, your pace, and a day that can be rewritten the night before.

One itemised price

Entrance fees, transfers, taxes and internal flights sit inside the quote. Nothing is added at the temple gate.

Nothing to pay to enquire

A full day-by-day itinerary costs you nothing, and a 30% deposit is the first money that changes hands.

24/7 while you travel

One number, answered in Egypt, for the whole trip — not a call centre in another time zone.

Real travellers

5.0 on TripAdvisor,4.9 on Google.

Every quote is a real one, posted under the traveller's own name.

Ruth B Solo traveller · posted on TripAdvisor

What a great team!

They helped me plan my day and arranged for an Egyptologist and driver to take me to all these places.

Lethabo Nelwamondo Couple · posted on Google

Had a great time

Thanks to well organised sightseeing and tour guide Ahmed who was professional and pleasant.

iwanna v Couple · posted on TripAdvisor

It was the best choice ever

We trusted EgyVacations for our trip to Egypt… They made our trip anxiety free, they solve every problem from our arrival to the airport till our departure.

How to book

Four steps, andno online checkout anywhere.

You talk to a travel consultant, they build your trip, and you only confirm when the itinerary is right.

  1. Tell us your dates

    Your travel month, group size and what you'd like to see. Two minutes on the form, or a message on WhatsApp.

  2. Get an itinerary and quote

    A consultant writes your day-by-day plan with hotels, guides and transfers, priced in your currency. Free, and yours to keep.

  3. Confirm when it's right

    Adjust it as many times as you like. Nothing is booked and nothing is charged until you say the itinerary is right.

  4. Travel with support

    You're met at the airport, and your consultant stays reachable 24/7 for the whole trip — the same person, not a call centre.

Ready when you are — the first step takes two minutes.

Plan your trip
Good to know

Travel tips from the peoplewho run the trips.

Pick a question on the left. We answer it the way we would answer it on the phone — with the numbers, and with what we would actually do.

Travellers inside one of Egypt’s ancient temples

When to go

The comfortable half of the year runs October to April: 20–28 °C in Luxor and Aswan, which is what open-deck sailing and three hours inside a temple actually require.

Daytime20–28 °C
CrowdsPeak Nov–Feb
PricesHighest Dec–Jan
  • March and April keep the weather and lose the crowds — the best value window.
  • June to August is much cheaper, but afternoons pass 42 °C and excursions run at dawn.
  • Christmas and New Year need a 50% deposit, because the cruisers ask us for one too.

Our tip

Book three to four months out for November to February. For a dahabiya, make it four — they carry twelve people and the good cabins go first.

Price Policy of EgyVacations

All rates listed by EgyVacations are quoted in U.S. Dollars (USD) unless stated otherwise. However, we accept payment in other major currencies such as EUR and GBP, based on the daily exchange rate at the time of payment.

Our prices are based on current market rates, seasonal variations, and availability, and are subject to change without prior notice. Rates are only confirmed once full payment or a deposit has been received.

Package rates generally include accommodation, transportation, guided tours, and meals, as outlined in your detailed itinerary. Please refer to your specific booking for a full list of inclusions and exclusions.

🎄 Holiday Season Supplement

  • A 25% holiday surcharge applies to all Nile Cruise and tour package bookings during Christmas, New Year, and Easter periods.
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Booking Confirmation Policy of EgyVacations

Booking requirements vary depending on the type of service:

  • Day Trips: Full payment is required at the time of booking.
  • Tour Packages & Nile Cruises: A 30% deposit is required to secure your reservation.
  • Holiday Season Bookings (Christmas, New Year, Easter): A 50% deposit is needed due to high demand.

Upon receiving your payment, we’ll issue a written confirmation, along with your itinerary and travel documents. The remaining balance can be paid in cash upon arrival.

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❌ Cancellation Policy of EgyVacations

If you need to cancel your trip, the following charges will apply:

  • 30+ days before arrival: Full refund minus any bank fees
  • 15–29 days before arrival: 25% cancellation fee
  • 7–14 days before arrival: 50% cancellation fee
  • Less than 7 days before arrival or no-show: 100% cancellation fee

Please note: Some hotels and cruise providers may have separate cancellation terms. Refunds, when applicable, are processed within 14 business days.

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Children Policy of EgyVacations

EgyVacations welcomes families with children and offers the following pricing structure:

  • Under 2 years: Free of charge
  • 2 to 5 years: 25% of adult rate
  • 6 to 11 years: 50% of adult rate
  • 12 years and above: Full adult rate

Children’s discounts apply when sharing a room with two paying adults. Please note that some cruises or hotels may have their own child policies, which will be specified in your itinerary.

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Tipping in Egypt

Tipping is customary in Egypt and greatly appreciated by service staff. Though not mandatory, the following guidelines are suggested:

  • Tour Guide: $10–15 per day (per group)
  • Driver: $5–10 per day (per group)
  • Nile Cruise Staff: $5–10 per person per night (shared among crew)

Unless otherwise mentioned, tips are not included in your tour price.

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