12-Day Egypt Itinerary: A Journey Through History & Luxury
Think of stepping into a world where the desert and Nile sing history's song. Your first steps land in Cairo. Here, the Great Pyramids gaze over the city like a quiet guardian. These giant icons of yore make your pulse quicken, reminding you of the wonders old empires could summon.
This 12-day itinerary is crafted for the connoisseurs of both thrills and comfort. You will enjoy a plush cruise on the Nile, where you will be introduced to the Pharaohs and get a chance to visit the Valley of the Kings. The stunning Abu Simbel Temples will also be part of your itinerary. Egyptian culture is fully revealed to you with every step, and the local guides make the experience effortless.
Do you want to unwind while simultaneously exploring the magnificent wonders of ancient Egypt during your Egypt itinerary?
Why Choose a 12-Day Egypt Itinerary?
A 12-day itinerary in Egypt allows plenty of time to explore everything about history and culture. It is a perfect balance between sightseeing and relaxing. A luxury Nile cruise tour would add comfort to your water escapades.
Historic sites like the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum are featured in the plan. Witness glorious temples in Luxor and Aswan. This plan ensures all the top attractions and some hidden gems find a place in your itinerary.
- Guided excursions give you the chance to get engrossed in understanding ancient civilizations.
- Taste has to include local Egyptian dishes such as Medames and Koshary.
- Traveling in comfort through Egypt, with all private transfers, fine accommodations, and services
A Nile cruise tour makes your trip quieter, soothing, and beautiful. You'll visit the ancient temples and tombs, and within that, you also have the option of selecting such experiences that really touch your interests.
My experience was even enhanced by getting to know the local culture and cuisine. Egypt Tours Portal enjoys a terrific reputation for customer satisfaction. The reviews underscore how satisfied travelers are with the tours. From a typical adventurer to a history hound, the 12-day tour of Egypt promises to be unforgettable.
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
Your Egypt itinerary would initiate with lots of cheerful emotions from Cairo. At Cairo International Airport, staff from Egypt Day Trips will be on hand to welcome you. They will make the transition from the plane a breeze for you.
After customs and retrieving your luggage, a guide will escort you to the air-conditioned, comfortable vehicle. The drive toward your 5-star hotel shows a glimpse of Cairo's busy streets; old and new buildings bring their first charm into your journey.
Relax at the hotel, and dinner will be spent with fellow tour members, enjoying authentic Egyptian food. This day prepares you for the excitement awaiting you in Egypt.
Begin dreaming about all the places you will visit: the Great Pyramids and the temples of Luxor. Every day will offer Egypt's secrets and history.
Day 2: Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza
On the second day, discover the world's most famous place in ancient Egyptian history: the Great Pyramids of Giza. These pyramids definitely reflect some of the finest construction feats accomplished by ancient Egyptians. You'll get deep into their history. Start by purchasing a ticket to the Giza Plateau. This will cost you 540 EGP for adult visitors and 270 EGP for students with IDs.The entrance to the interior of the Great Pyramid costs an additional 900 EGP. The Pyramid of Menkaure is 220 EGP. Guided tours across Egypt may see different attraction sites, making your trip more worthwhile.
- Take a camel ride across the sands to enhance your experience.
- The Solar Boat Museum in front of the Great Pyramid allows you to explore the vessel thought to have been used for traveling to the afterlife.
- Schedule an extra visit to the Sakkara Complex, which is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser.
You will be provided breakfast, lunch, and dinner during your tour. You will have a full day at this site. It is also an excellent opportunity for photography and learning.
Think of visiting other sights after a day full of wonder. Such as the Salah El Din Citadel, for which you pay 450 EGP for adults and 230 EGP for students. Do not forget to wear shoe covers for 5 EGP. The citadel is open from 8 am to 5 pm.
Day 3: Cairo’s Architectural Marvels
Your day will be exciting when you explore the impressive buildings that Cairo has to offer. You will start with the Egyptian Museum, which is rich in ancient treasures like the famous Tutankhamun tomb. You can spend around five hours at the museum to go through history firsthand.
Next, you will visit the Khan El Khalili bazaar. It comes alive with traditions and crafts, with an amazing diversity of beautiful jewelry, spices, and textiles. This is one of the important places to visit on your trip to Egypt.
Former Cairo visitors here would witness beautiful mosques with much of Islamic architecture: The Mosque of Muhammad Ali and Al-Azhar Mosque are two of them. They have an entire story of the past and culture of Cairo in them.
- Go see the priceless artifacts at the Egyptian Museum.
- You may want to visit the famous bazaar of Khan El Khalili, which sells some unique local crafts.
- Feel very much amazed at the beautiful, stunning mosques of Islamic Cairo.
These places take you through the course of development that Cairo has passed through. They will make the trip richer and allow you to see the heritage of the fantastic city.
Day 4: Fly to Luxor and Board the Nile Cruise
On day four, you will depart for Luxor, Egypt, which will mark the beginning of a remarkable journey through Egypt that starts with the touch-down in this city. From the airport, you will be transported in style to a sumptuous Nile Cruise.
Delight in the ancient Egyptian epoch on the cruise while marveling at the numerous treasures from Ancient Egypt. Voyage in elegance and be pampered in the utmost comfort.
Marvel at the stunning scenery of the Nile River as you board your cruise. This cruise will serve as your abode for the next four nights, during which you will unwind aboard the cruise as you delve into the Egyptian culture.
You may choose to sunbathe or indulge in one or two spa treatments. Maintain your dining etiquette while indulging in food and entertainment that is an all-out exhibition of the Egyptian culture.
- The Luxor Temple and the Karnak Temple Complex are close to each other, and they are located in the middle of Luxor.
- Enjoy a dip in the swimming pool or treat yourself to a spa treatment while cruising on the Nile.
- Absorb captivating information from proficient Egyptian guides.
The Nile Cruise perfectly blends the visiting of breathtaking sights with lavish indulgence. Prepare yourself for the experience of a lifetime because in a short while, you will be encountering astounding ancient history in Luxor.
Day 5: Discover the Valley of the Kings
On day five, the Valley of the Kings calls. This is the place where you will find the history of ancient Egypt kept. There is the resting place of the pharaohs, as well as the grand and noble burial chambers, with their elaborate furnishings.
Watch for:
The Tomb of Tutankhamun: Its treasures and amazing hieroglyphs were uncovered in 1922.
The Ramesseum: The New Kingdom’s magnificent architecture is marvelously displayed in this grand complex built in honor of Ramses II.
Seti I’s Tomb: It is famous for its stunningly painted frescoes, which speak of ancient funerary rituals and beliefs.
All of the tombs in the Valley of the Kings have a narrative to share. They depict the ancient Egyptian world and its spirituality. The frescoes center on life after death, a particularly important concept for the Egyptians. One is able to learn a great deal about the civilisation that made them from walking alongside these ancient trails. Such wonders enlighten one to the world and practices of the people long ago.
Day 6: Cruising from Luxor to Edfu
On the sixth day, a journey from Luxor to Edfu is scheduled. This journey is a genuine vacation in Egypt as it offers breathtaking views of the river and the ancient sites. The Nile cruise ship departs at dawn, furnished with all the necessary contemporary amenities. The uninterrupted flow of the river paired with breakfast is truly priceless. The Nile is and has always been a crucial part of Egypt's culture and history. Giant temples and scenic views from the river.
- Engage in activities related to history and ancient Egypt.
- Enjoy meals by master chefs that represent the finest of Egyptian gastronomy.
Your cruise’s centrepiece is the Edfu Temple Cruise. This temple is dedicated to the god Horus and is very well preserved. You will be able to admire astonishing hieroglyphics and huge statues that tell the tale of the distant Egyptian civilisation.
Taking the cruise on the Nile is very calming as it connects you to the land and its history. Egypt provides a very calming ambience for one’s thoughts and allows one to ponder the incredible history of the Nile. This day helps you fall in love a little more with the splendour and the history of Egypt.
Day 7: Temple of Horus and Kom Ombo
Ready, on Day 7, to fill your travel itinerary from the Temple of Horus at Edfu and the Temple of Kom Ombo. Start at the Temple of Horus, which is considered one of the finest ancient Egyptian sites. It's amazing because of its incredible architecture, along with all the stories about the falcon god Horus. Look at the detailed hieroglyphics carved atop the walls. A look into ancient times is what it speaks of.
Next, head to Kom Ombo. Here you will see a temple dedicated to two gods: Sobek the crocodile and Horus the Great. It is symmetrical and very conveniently designed for the temple. Reliefs of medical tools and rituals will be found there. Setting its importance in ancient medicine and beliefs.
Day 8: Aswan and the Abu Simbel Temples
It is day eight, and you are in Aswan city of natural beauty and history, and another stopping point on your ancient Egypt trip. Wake up and have breakfast before heading out to the Abu Simbel Temples.
The Abu Simbel Temples are absolutely brilliant. Built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, you will see huge statues at the entrance, talking of strength and triumph. The temples have a lot of carvings and hieroglyphics depicting the victories and the relationship of the Pharaoh with the gods.
- In the 1960s, to save them from drowning in Lake Nasser, the temples were shifted; this was a huge endeavor to save ancient treasures.
- Time to reach Abu Simbel: by car, about 3 hours.
- Places to visit the temples: The Great Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Nefertari.
- Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served.
At night, explore the vistas of the Nile River in Aswan. This day's experience dives into the glory of ancient Egypt. Of course, the Abu Simbel Temples are not to be missed on any journey.
Day 9: Relaxation and Exploration in Aswan
Your trip to Egypt will take you to Aswan for relaxing and leisurely history on the ninth day. Start with a leisurely morning cruise on the Nile. That spirit will be mirrored with the slow waves of the water.
After that, have a break to visit the Philae Temple. This is also an island located in the Egyptian past, showcasing great ancient Egyptian craftsmanship. Walking through it, you get to learn about Isis and the history of Egypt.
- You will enjoy a very freeing felucca ride on the Nile with the lovely serene scenery on display.
- Now into town to the Souk. Find some cool handicrafts and then try some local cuisines.
- The Kalabsha Temple is an off-the-beaten-path site that can add some depth to your appreciation of all the historical wealth in this area.
Aswan brings calmness but is equally rich in culture. The welcome of Nubians adds much to the enjoyment of a visit here. Have a day full of joy, comfort, and knowledge about Egypt's history.
Day 10: Journey to Alexandria
Alexandria is a charming stop on your twelve-day tour to Egypt. The city is one huge book of history and beauty. Begin with the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, offering insight into Egyptian-Greek-Roman styles intertwined together.
After this comes Pompey's Pillar, the giant granite column that looked upon Alexandria's past and was erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian. It is of great beauty but even greater importance in ancient Egypt.
But it's not over yet: Alexandria offers its modern and entertaining arts to the world. A walk along the Mediterranean coastline is one to behold, replete with the aroma of local foods. Grab a table in a seaside café to absorb the sights while dining at some fabulous eateries.
- Visit significant places such as the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
- Visit Pompey's Pillar to understand certain features of Ancient Roman architecture.
- Enjoy the scenic Mediterranean coast and unique local cuisine.
Most certainly, the visits to Alexandria are both educational and entertaining. Ancient history and current charm live here side by side. Surely, Alexandria will find a permanent spot in your Egyptian journey.
Day 11: More of Alexandria and Return to Cairo
Your 11th day is exclusively dedicated to Alexandria, the city steeped in its history and adorned by its beautiful coastline. Begin the exploration by indulging in the city's culture and heritage at various sites.
- Walk along this stunning waterfront and marvel at the beautiful views they have of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Visit the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the eighth wonder of the world, which showcases the amalgamated cultures it exemplifies for the cities.
- Walk through the bustling local markets and enjoy traditional Egyptian food at one of the many delicious-looking restaurants.
As the hours pass, so will the moments of Alexandria's beauty; the great monuments and cultural encounters will be seen, and walking through them will give you a sense of its great history of art. After exploring it, going back to Cairo was a three-hour drive. There are things in your mind about what to see and do.
The rest of the time there, you'll be comfortable in Cairo, preparing for your departure. Such a nice place as Alexandria will allow you to enjoy your journey to Egypt exceptionally.
Day 12: Farewell to Cairo
Today is not only the last day of a wonderful journey through Egypt; the memories, wonderful memories, now create a moment for reflection. You saw the Great Pyramids and you cruised the Nile; the experiences have created a lasting impact that will have you thinking differently about this ancient land.
Today, following breakfast at the hotel you will have your last taste of an Egyptian breakfast; then you will check out and make your way to Cairo International Airport. Check your flight itinerary for times and ensure you arrive in plenty of time for check-in, baggage, and security.
- Check your flight schedule one last time for your departure from Cairo, hopefully not for the last time, but it is difficult to tell.
- Before you begin your travels home, make sure you have all your souvenirs and personal belongings carefully packed.
- Take a final walk around the hotel and enjoy your last views of Cairo while you contemplate the experience you have just had.
Take a minute to reflect on the extensive list of wonderful things you saw. You saw Karnak Temple and all of its splendour and the mummies of kings and queens. You roamed the Egyptian Museum of Civilization (EMC). Each location was a piece of Egypt's history.
Leaving Cairo is not just the end, it is also the beginning of a long new chapter in your life. The experiences, relationships, and friendships you made, along with the many lessons to be learned from your time here, will stay with you. Take the spirit of Egypt and its deep-rooted history along with you as you start your journey back home.
Top Tips for Your 12-Day Egypt Itinerary
The trip to Egypt is a wonderful adventure filled with magic and timeless history. For maximizing your experience during your 12-day itinerary, visit these travel tips for Egypt, which will make your journey memorable.
Dress Rightly: Wear light, portable clothes since it is hot. Cover your shoulders and knees while visiting religious places, showing respect for local customs.
Stay Hydrated: The sun has intense heat in Egypt. Always carry water whenever you go to such places as the Great Pyramids of Giza or the Valley of the Kings.
Cultural Norms: Smile while greeting. Learn a few important Arabic phrases. It shows you care and thus enhances your interactions during your trip.
Taste Local Food: Sample koshari and ful medames, since that is all part of any food adventure.
Planning Your Visits: The Giza complex becomes deserted by 2:00 PM. Arrive early so that you see the pyramids without having to haggle with the crowds. Also, when preparing for a visit to a place like Abu Simbel, be ready to spend a lot of time there.
Choose Wisely Your Cruise: The Nile cruises are of different lengths; short ones offer options for 3, 4, or 7 nights. This offers one the opportunity to rest and see the sights.
These travel tips in Egypt will best serve during that journey. Good planning ensures people enjoy all the beauty and great vacation days in Egypt.
Booking with Egypt Day Trips
Traveling through Egypt has become an easy piece of cake since Egypt Day Trips came into being. The company offers various packages to cater to different needs and interests. You can even customize your own Egypt trip, from Nile cruises to the Red Sea.
All the guided tours to Egypt contain a good blend of history, culture, and beauty. Most tours run for 12 days and include:
-
The Great Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo
-
A Nile cruise for scenic views and relaxation
-
Exploring temples in Luxor and the Valley of the Kings
-
Visit historical places in Alexandria.
-
Optional excursions to Dubai or Jordan
Travelers can choose among many hotels. The family packages offer discounts. The itineraries allow exploration of eight cities within twelve days. Great reviews and unforgettable memories are guaranteed while in Egypt.
Book with Egypt Day Trips for a well-organized experience. They provide quality and insight. Your tour will be luxurious and yet with a great deal of meaning.
-webp.webp "Scuba diving Sharm El Sheikh")
