12 Days Egypt Tour: Cairo, Nile Cruise & Sharm El Sheikh

12 Days Egypt Tour: Cairo, Nile Cruise & Sharm El Sheikh

12 Days / 11 Nights
Start From $2,756

Cairo, a Nile cruise, and a Red Sea finish in Sharm El Sheikh.

This program stretches the classic Cairo-plus-Nile-cruise formula into a full 12 days by adding a Red Sea close on the far end. Cairo gets four nights, enough for Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and a day for the Citadel and Khan El Khalili. From there it's a flight to Luxor, a four-night cruise down to Aswan taking in every major Upper Egypt temple, and then a hop to Sharm El Sheikh for three nights of reef and beach time before the return flight to Cairo.

Cairo — where the ancient world begins.
Start City / End City

Cairo — where the ancient world begins.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Cairo

Your tour in Egypt begins the moment you land at Cairo International Airport. A dedicated representative will welcome you, assist with all arrival formalities, and ensure a smooth private transfer to your hotel. Settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening in Cairo.

Overnight in Cairo.

Cairo
Cairo — where the ancient world begins.
Day 2

Giza Pyramids, Sphinx & the Grand Egyptian Museum

After breakfast, set out for a guided tour across the Giza Plateau. Admire the Great Pyramids, the timeless Sphinx, and the Valley Temple. After a flavorful local lunch, continue to the Grand Egyptian Museum, where one of the world's richest collections of pharaonic artifacts is preserved.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight in Cairo.

Cairo
Cairo — where the ancient world begins.
Day 3

Cairo's Historic Treasures

Devote your morning to Cairo's storied heart with a visit to the medieval Citadel, the striking alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, and the lively lanes of Khan El Khalili.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight in Cairo.

Cairo
Cairo — where the ancient world begins.
Day 4

Flight to Luxor & East Bank Wonders

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, visit the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple. In the evening, board your cruise, savoring dinner as you glide along the Nile.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight aboard your cruise in Luxor.

Luxor
Luxor — the world's greatest open-air museum.
Day 5

West Bank — Kings, Queens & Ancient Mysteries

Journey to Luxor's West Bank to uncover the secrets of the Valley of the Kings, marvel at the graceful Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and pause at the imposing Colossi of Memnon. Return to the cruise for lunch while sailing through Upper Egypt. Dinner on board.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight aboard your cruise in Edfu.

Luxor
Luxor — the world's greatest open-air museum.
Day 6

Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples

Sail to Edfu to explore the exceptionally preserved Temple of Horus. Continue along the Nile to Kom Ombo, where the rare twin temples honor both Sobek and Haroeris. Evenings aboard the cruise provide a serene setting.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight aboard your cruise in Aswan.

Edfu
Edfu — the best-preserved temple in Egypt.
Day 7

Aswan Highlights & Nile Serenity

In Aswan, visit the iconic Philae Temple and the awe-inspiring Unfinished Obelisk. Later, relax on a peaceful boat ride along the Nile, taking in the river's calm vistas.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight aboard your cruise in Aswan.

Aswan
Aswan — where the Nile narrows and the pace slows.
Day 8

Optional Abu Simbel & Flight to Sharm El Sheikh

For travelers seeking a deeper dive into Egypt's history, an optional early-morning excursion to Abu Simbel is offered, included in your package price at no extra cost. Afterwards, fly to Sharm El Sheikh to begin the coastal portion of your journey. Settle into your beach resort and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Overnight in Sharm El Sheikh.

Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh — the Red Sea's finest reefs.
Day 9

Relaxation on the Red Sea

Spend a day at leisure along the breathtaking Red Sea coast. Swim in the crystal-clear waters, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, or enjoy the luxury amenities of your resort.

Meals: Breakfast

Overnight in Sharm El Sheikh.

Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh — the Red Sea's finest reefs.
Day 10

Desert Adventure or Free Time

Shape your experience according to your preference: either fully unwind or embark on an optional desert safari, stargazing excursion, or a boat trip to Ras Mohammed National Park.

Meals: Breakfast

Overnight in Sharm El Sheikh.

Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh — the Red Sea's finest reefs.
Day 11

Return to Cairo

Fly back to Cairo, where another evening awaits, ideal for last-minute shopping, revisiting favorite spots, or simply savoring the vibrant energy of the city.

Meals: Breakfast

Overnight in Cairo.

Cairo
Cairo — where the ancient world begins.
Day 12

Departure from Cairo

A private transfer escorts you to the airport for your outbound flight. As you depart Egypt, you carry home the emotion of walking through millennia of history.

Meals: Breakfast

Cairo
Cairo — where the ancient world begins.

Iconic Heritage Stays

We have selected the finest addresses to serve as your home throughout the journey.

Hilton Pyramids Golf

Hilton Pyramids Golf

Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise

Chateau Lafayette Nile Cruise

Jaz Fanara Resort

Jaz Fanara Resort

Seasonal Rates

SummerUltra (5★)
$2,756
WinterUltra (5★)
$3,300

*Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Solo supplement applies.

What's Tour Included

What's Included

Shared guided tours during the Nile cruise
Bottled water during all excursions outside of hotels and the cruise ship
Guided private sightseeing tours throughout Cairo
3 nights in Sharm El Sheikh with breakfast included
Ongoing support from our guest relations team throughout your stay
4 nights aboard a 5-star superior Nile cruise with full-board service
All applicable service charges, fees, and taxes
Portage service wherever required
Domestic flights covering Cairo – Luxor – Aswan – Sharm El Sheikh – Cairo
Meals as detailed in the itinerary, including hotels, Nile cruise, and tour lunches/dinners
Private, air-conditioned transfers between hotels, airports, and ports
Entry visa fees for Egypt — included in the quotation.
Personalized meet-and-greet and assistance by our representatives at all airports
Optional early-morning Abu Simbel excursion (included in the price)
4 nights in Cairo with daily breakfast
Entrance fees for all attractions specified in the itinerary

What's Excluded

Optional excursions or activities not included in the itinerary
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and cruise staff
International flights to and from Egypt
Personal expenses of any kind

Notes

Money & Budget: While major cards are accepted in hotels and larger shops, it is always a good idea to carry some Egyptian Pounds in cash for small purchases, local markets, and tipping. ATM machines are widely available, but having a little cash on hand makes life much easier when you’re out and about.
Travel Documents: Before you fly, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Please have your hotel bookings and flight tickets printed and ready, and keep digital copies saved on your phone for easy access. Remember to check the latest visa requirements for your nationality before departure.
Dress Code: Egypt is a culturally conservative country. When visiting mosques or local neighborhoods, it’s best to dress modestly—covering your shoulders and knees is appreciated. Otherwise, feel free to wear light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool.
Photography: You are welcome to take photos at most sites. However, please note that some museums or specific tombs may restrict flash photography to preserve the ancient colors and artifacts. Always check with your guide if you aren't sure.
Italian citizens can enter Egypt with a valid ID card only (no passport required).
Tipping (Baksheesh): Tipping is an ingrained part of Egyptian culture. It is customary to offer a small tip to drivers, guides, and cruise staff for their services. Having some small denominations of local currency handy will make this much easier for you.
Smart Packing: Pack light, breathable clothing for the desert heat, but keep a light jacket or sweater handy for cooler evenings and air-conditioned spaces. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, a high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay protected while exploring ancient sites.
Embrace the Journey: Egyptian history is vast and vibrant. Don’t feel pressured to rush through every site; take a moment to stand still, soak in the atmosphere, and let the sheer scale of these ancient wonders sink in.
Essential Trip Tips To ensure your adventure through Egypt is as seamless and enjoyable as possible, please take a moment to review these helpful tips:
Health & Safety: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water, which is included in your excursions. It’s always smart to carry a small personal first-aid kit with basic items like pain relievers or stomach remedies. Keep our emergency contact details saved in your phone so you can reach us at any time if you need assistance.

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