Explore Egypt - 12 Days Cairo with 3 Nights Nile Cruise Tour

Awaken to morning light reflecting off the Giza Plateau. Your first full day in Cairo begins with private access to the ancient world's most iconic wonders, accompanied by your dedicated Egyptologist guide.

Giza Pyramids

Stand before the legendary Pyramids of Giza, beginning with the magnificent Great Pyramid of Khufu (Akhet-Khufu), the largest of the three and the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Built around 2560 BC during Egypt’s Fourth Dynasty. Nearby rise the pyramids of Khafre (Chephren/Chefren) and Menkaure (Mycerinus/Mykerinos), forming the iconic skyline of the Giza Plateau.

Beyond these three famous monumental pyramids, the Giza necropolis includes six other smaller pyramids and royal tombs built for queens and other members of the royal family, including Queen Hetepheres I, Queen Meritetes I, and Queen Henutsen. 

Great Sphinx of Giza

Stand before the enigmatic Great Sphinx of Giza, one of the world’s most recognizable ancient monuments. Carved from limestone with the body of a lion and the head of a king, the Sphinx is traditionally associated with Pharaoh Khafre. This monumental guardian has watched over the Giza Plateau for more than 4,500 years.

💡Did You Know? Ancient Egyptians called the Sphinx Hor-em-Akhet, meaning “Horus in the Horizon,” reflecting its connection to the rising sun and royal symbolism.

Valley Temple of Khafre

Continue to the Valley Temple of Khafre, an exceptionally well-preserved monument built from enormous blocks of limestone and Aswan granite as part of the king’s funerary complex. Once an important setting for the purification and mummification rituals of Khafre, the temple offers a remarkable glimpse into the ceremonies surrounding an ancient Egyptian king’s journey to the afterlife.

Lunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge

Before continuing your exploration, enjoy a delicious lunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge, where you can savor your meal while taking in breathtaking views of the nine pyramids of the Giza Plateau.

Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

Discover the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilization, set within an extraordinary 500,000-square-meter complex. Explore an unparalleled collection of ancient Egyptian treasures, including the colossal Ramesses II statue and more than 5,000 artifacts from the tomb of King Tutankhamun, displayed together for the first time. 

💡 Insider Reveal: GEM offers far more than traditional museum galleries. Discover immersive digital experiences, a dedicated Children’s Museum, the Khufu Solar Boat, and the spectacular Grand Staircase, with the Giza Pyramids visible from the museum grounds. 

Leave Cairo behind and travel by private vehicle to Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC. Known as the “Bride of the Mediterranean,” it blends Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, and modern Egyptian heritage. 

Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Descend into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of Alexandria’s most remarkable Roman-era necropolises. Dating to the 2nd century AD, the underground complex combines Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic traditions, with sculptures and funerary decorations. Explore its atmospheric chambers and intricate details to discover how different cultures and beliefs came together in ancient Alexandria. 

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Alexandria’s spectacular modern revival of the spirit of its legendary ancient library. Admire its striking architectural design and explore its vast reading spaces, museums, cultural exhibitions, and interactive displays, while enjoying beautiful views overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

💡Did You Know? While the original ancient Library of Alexandria was famously lost to fire, today's complex was designed to rebuild that legacy as a vibrant center for research, art, and history. 

Qaitbay Citadel

Stroll along Alexandria’s Corniche before visiting the impressive Qaitbay Citadel, a 15th-century Mamluk fortress built between 1477 and 1479 on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria (the Pharos of Alexandria), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The fortress covers approximately 17,550 m² and offers sweeping Mediterranean views.

After sightseeing, you will be transferred to your luxury hotel in Alexandria for a relaxing overnight stay.

Wake up to the gentle sound of the Mediterranean, enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then prepare yourself for your journey to Wadi El Natrun. 

Wadi El Natrun

Discover Wadi El Natrun (Natrn Valley), a desert valley famed for its natron-rich lakes and more than 1,500 years of Coptic monastic heritage. Four ancient monasteries survive here: St. Macarius, Anba Bishoy, the Syrians, and Paromeos. Their fortified walls, ancient churches, icons, and manuscripts preserve one of Egypt’s most important centers of early Christian monasticism.

💡Did You Know? Wadi El Natrun’s monasteries are part of Egypt’s UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. If time permits, explore the Monastery of the Syrians, home to the historic Church of the Virgin Mary and remarkable Coptic artwork.

After your visit, continue your ride to Cairo train station and board your overnight sleeper train to Aswan, with dinner served as you journey south into Upper Egypt.

Essential Journey Details

• Today includes a scenic 3-hour private transfer before your evening departure to Aswan. Board the overnight sleeper train around 8:00 PM for a 13-hour journey south. Your private, air-conditioned two-berth cabin includes fresh bedding.
• The sleeper train offers a nostalgic Egyptian rail experience and a memorable way to travel through the night. While comfortable, onboard facilities and service differ from a 5-star hotel.
• Dinner and breakfast are served on board, with a simple selection of dietary options. If you are vegan or have food allergies or specific dietary requirements, please inform us in advance. We also recommend bringing your preferred snacks and any personal travel essentials before departure.

Upon arriving in Aswan, Egypt’s tranquil southern gateway to Nubian culture, you will be greeted by your private Egyptologist to begin your journey with an exclusive tour of the island temple of Philae.

Philae Temple

Take a short motorboat ride to Agilkia Island to explore the magnificent Philae Temple, the temple of Isis, the goddess of motherhood, magic, and protection. The romantic temple is closely connected to her legendary love for Osiris. Admire its monumental pylons, elegant colonnades, and beautifully carved scenes.

💡Did You Know? The original Philae Temple was threatened by the rising waters of Lake Nasser after the Aswan High Dam was built. In an extraordinary UNESCO-led rescue project during the 1960s–1970s, the temple complex was rebuilt piece by piece on Agilkia Island.

Authentic Nubian Village

In the evening, take a boat to a colorful Nubian village along the Nile. Meet local families, discover their traditions, and enjoy a home-cooked dinner, featuring local dishes while sharing stories and experiencing everyday Nubian life. You should try Okra Stew, a tomato-based tajine stew, together with sanasel bread.

After dinner, return by private transfer to your luxury hotel in Aswan for a restful overnight stay.

Set off early this morning on a scenic 283 km (176-mile) private transfer south across the Nubian Desert to Abu Simbel.

Abu Simbel Temples:
Step before the colossal façade of Abu Simbel Temples (the Great Temple of Ramses II), carved directly into the mountainside and guarded by four monumental statues of the pharaoh. Inside, admire richly detailed reliefs depicting Ramses II, ancient Egyptian gods, and scenes celebrating the king’s power and victories.

Continue to the nearby Temple of Hathor, associated with Queen Nefertari, the beloved Great Royal Wife of Ramses II, one of ancient Egypt’s most revered queens, celebrated for her beauty, influence, and prominent role beside Egypt’s most powerful pharaoh.

💡Insider Reveal: Abu Simbel was not always where you see it today. When the construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened to submerge the temples beneath Lake Nasser, an international UNESCO-led campaign moved the entire complex to higher ground in the 1960s–1970s, preserving these extraordinary monuments for future generations.

Enjoy two hours exploring the magnificent temples of Abu Simbel before your private transfer back to Aswan to board your 3-day luxury Nile cruise. Settle into your elegant cabin for lunch on board as you begin sailing toward Luxor. 

In the late afternoon, step aboard a traditional wooden felucca for a peaceful sail along the river before returning to the ship for dinner.

Continue your Nile voyage in style alongside your dedicated guide, pausing along the riverbanks to uncover two of Egypt's most unique temples.

Kom Ombo Temple

Arrive at the remarkable Temple of Kom Ombo, a rare dual temple situated directly on the riverbanks. This sanctuary is uniquely dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and Horus the Elder, the falcon-headed god of the sky. Admire its striking symmetrical layout, featuring perfectly mirrored twin halls, sanctuaries, and entrances.

💡Insider Reveal: Walk down to the temple's ancient Nilometer, a deep stone well used by priests to measure the water levels of the Nile. This wasn't just for flood forecasting; high water levels meant a rich harvest, which the priests used to calculate the region's agricultural taxes for the year! 

Afterward, return to your ship and continue sailing upriver. Spend a relaxing afternoon on the sun deck taking in the passing scenery, where desert hills frame lush palm groves, local fishermen cast their nets, and life moves at the Nile’s timeless rhythm. Enjoy a gourmet dinner on board as your ship docks in Edfu later tonight.

Following breakfast, step ashore to explore the Temple of Edfu, Egypt’s most remarkably preserved ancient sanctuary dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god. Return to your ship to continue sailing toward Luxor, taking in the lively riverbank scenes and witnessing the engineering marvel of passing through the Esna Locks. 

Upon arrival in Luxor, enjoy an orientation walk through the city’s vibrant center. This evening, choose an optional guided visit to experience the magnificent Luxor Temple beautifully illuminated under the night sky before dinner on board.

Wake up in Luxor, the majestic realm of ancient Thebes. After a morning breakfast on board, disembark to leave your luggage at your hotel before embarking on a private guided journey through Egypt’s greatest open-air museum.

Karnak Temple

Begin at the extraordinary Karnak Temple Complex, one of ancient Egypt’s largest religious complexes and a masterpiece built and expanded by generations of pharaohs. Explore the Great Temple of Amun-Ra, the monumental Great Hypostyle Hall, towering obelisks, massive pylons, sacred chapels, and beautifully carved reliefs that reveal the religious and royal power of ancient Thebes.

💡Insider Reveal: Karnak was once connected to Luxor Temple by an Avenue of Sphinxes, forming a sacred processional route used during the ancient Opet Festival, a celebration of renewal and kingship.

Luxor Temple

Later, enjoy time at leisure to relax at your hotel before returning to Luxor Temple at sunset. Set beside the Nile in the heart of modern Luxor, this magnificent temple is renowned for its monumental First Pylon, colossal statues of Ramesses II, Avenue of Sphinxes, elegant colonnades, and beautifully preserved reliefs.

As evening falls and Luxor Temple glows beneath the night sky, experience one of Luxor’s most captivating moments: a magical encounter with the timeless legacy of ancient Egypt.

Return to your luxury hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening in Luxor.

Today, explore the legendary West Bank of Luxor, the ancient city of Thebes. 

Valley of the Kings

Continue to the famous Valley of the Kings, where more than 60 royal tombs lie hidden among the desert hills. With your Egyptologist guide, explore three beautifully decorated tombs, including the renowned Tomb of King Tutankhamun (KV62), the burial place of the young pharaoh whose extraordinary treasures were discovered by Howard Carter in 1922. 

As you explore these sacred chambers, uncover the stories of the powerful rulers, including Thutmose III, Seti I, and Ramesses II, whose richly decorated tombs preserve the beliefs, artistry, and royal legacy of ancient Egypt.

💡Did You Know? Above the necropolis rises Al-Qurn, a naturally pyramid-shaped peak that may have held symbolic significance for the ancient Egyptians and their beliefs about the afterlife. 

Queen Hatshepsut Temple

Next, visit the spectacular Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, dramatically built into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari.

The temple’s beautifully preserved reliefs capture Hatshepsut’s celebrated expedition to the Land of Punt, depicting majestic ships, exotic animals, fragrant trees, and precious goods. These epic scenes offer a rare glimpse into the wealth and trade of ancient Egypt.

Colossi of Memnon

Begin with the two towering guardians that rise from the landscape of ancient Thebes. Meet the Colossi of Memnon, monumental statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood on Luxor’s West Bank for more than 3,400 years. Once guarding the entrance to his vast mortuary temple, they reflect the immense power of Egypt’s 18th Dynasty.

💡Insider Reveal: The statues are all that remains of a once-magnificent mortuary temple that was among the largest in ancient Egypt. The northern colossus also became famous in the Greco-Roman era for a mysterious sound heard at sunrise, inspiring the name “Memnon” and attracting ancient travelers from across the Mediterranean.

Lunch - Taste of Egypt 

Step away from the usual tourist restaurants and join a local Egyptian family in their home. Share a freshly prepared traditional meal, experience genuine Egyptian hospitality, and enjoy a special opportunity to connect with everyday life in Luxor.

Take a short internal flight from Luxor to Cairo for the final chapter of your luxury Egyptian journey. 

Upon landing, join your private Egyptologist to step directly into Islamic Cairo, a living UNESCO World Heritage site of soaring minarets, medieval palaces, and historic spice markets. 

Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Explore the iconic Khan El Khalili Bazaar, established in the 14th century during the Mamluk era. Wander through its alleyways lined with shops displaying handcrafted souvenirs, silver and brass lanterns, alabaster, Perfume Street, the aromatic Spice Market, admire the Gold Souk, and explore traditional artisan workshops that continue centuries-old crafts in the heart of Historic Cairo.

El Fishawy Café

Pause at the celebrated El Fishawy Café, one of Cairo’s oldest and most famous coffeehouses, welcoming visitors since 1773. 

Relax with traditional Egyptian tea, Arabic coffee, or fresh mint tea.

Enjoy a leisurely final morning in Cairo, with breakfast and time at your own pace before your departure.

Your Egypt Day Trips representative will assist with your private transfer to Cairo International Airport (CAI), ensuring a smooth and comfortable farewell.

If you wish to extend your stay, additional nights in Cairo can be arranged; contact us now.