12-Day Egypt Itinerary: Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & Hurghada

Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, an A1toureg representative will greet you and assist with the transfer to your hotel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. You will have the evening at leisure, with overnight accommodation at the hotel. If you arrive early, please contact us for optional tour suggestions.

After breakfast, our guide will pick you up from your Cairo hotel for an exciting day exploring the iconic Pyramids of Giza (Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus). Continue your visit to the Great Sphinx, which dates back to the time of the Pharaohs, and then proceed to explore the Valley Temple. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant in Giza, offering a delicious taste of Egyptian cuisine.

In the afternoon, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Tahrir Square, home to a vast collection of over 250,000 ancient artifacts, including the famous treasures of Tutankhamun, displayed in an exclusive exhibit. These priceless objects, including gold and jewelry, were buried with the young pharaoh over 3,500 years ago and were uncovered in 1922 when his tomb was discovered.

For those interested, the Royal Mummies Hall is an additional highlight and can be visited for a fee of $30 per person. Simply inform your guide if you wish to visit.

Please note that the Grand Egyptian Museum is still under construction and is expected to open soon, possibly by the end of 2025.

Enjoy an overnight stay at your Cairo hotel. If you wish, you can opt for a Sound and Light Show at the Giza Pyramids for $40 per person.

After breakfast, your Egyptologist guide will meet you at your hotel in Cairo or Giza at 08:00 am. Your first stop is the Saladin Citadel, built by Salah al-Din in 1183 AD on the Moqattam Hills to defend against Crusader armies. Offering stunning panoramic views of Cairo and fresh air, the Citadel is now a historical site featuring several mosques and museums, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha. Designed by the Turkish architect Yousif Boushnaq, who traveled from Istanbul specifically for the project, this mosque’s magnificent alabaster structure contrasts beautifully with the surrounding sandstone city.

Next, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Old Cairo before heading to explore the city’s historic heart. Visit landmarks such as the Hanging Church, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, St. Barbara’s Church, and the Church of Abu Serga, one of the oldest Coptic churches in Cairo.

Your day continues with a visit to the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest and most vibrant markets in the Middle East. This bustling market has been Cairo’s center of trade since the 14th century, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich commercial and cultural history.

After an unforgettable exploration of Cairo’s historic treasures, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Cairo.

After breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel in Giza to Cairo International Airport for a short flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, you will embark on your Nile Cruise, where lunch will be served on board.

In the afternoon, explore the highlights of Aswan, beginning with a visit to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. This was the last temple built in the classic Egyptian style, with construction starting around 690 BC. Next, enjoy a scenic Felucca boat ride around Elephantine Island and visit the High Dam, a monumental project completed in 1968 that created Lake Nasser. Learn about the Unfinished Obelisk, a massive granite structure that provides insight into ancient Egyptian stone-working techniques.

At 12:00 PM, you will have lunch on board, followed by a relaxing sailing trip on the Nile. In the late afternoon, visit the beautiful Lord Kitchener Island and the vibrant Nubian Village, known for its colorful architecture and rich culture. Spend approximately 2 hours exploring the village, experiencing its authentic atmosphere, and immersing yourself in its artistic charm.

After a full day of exploration, enjoy a delicious dinner and overnight stay aboard the cruise ship.

After breakfast, enjoy your cruise onboard. In the early morning, embark on a visit to the Abu Simbel Temples from Aswan. The Abu Simbel Temples, built between 1274 and 1244 B.C. during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II, are among Egypt’s most impressive archaeological sites. The Great Temple is dedicated to Ramses II, Ra-Harakhty, Amun Ra, and Ptah, featuring four colossal statues of the pharaoh. The second temple, dedicated to Queen Nefertari and the goddess Hathor, showcases exquisite architectural detail. The temples were meticulously moved stone by stone to higher ground to protect them from the rising waters of Lake Nasser, a monumental achievement recognized by UNESCO.

After the visit, enjoy lunch onboard the Nile cruise. At 13:00, continue sailing towards Kom Ombo. The Kom Ombo Temple, located 40 km north of Aswan, is dedicated to the gods Sobek (the crocodile god) and Horus. This temple, which dates back to the Ptolemaic and Roman periods (332 B.C. – 395 A.D.), stands as an extraordinary example of ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman architectural fusion.

Afterward, sail towards Edfu, where you will spend the night. Dinner will be served onboard, followed by an entertaining Galabyia Party to enjoy the local culture.

Overnight aboard the cruise.

After breakfast on board the Nile Cruise, you'll begin your day with a visit to the Edfu Temple, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Departing around 08:00 AM, you will travel by horse-drawn carriage to reach the Temple of Horus in Edfu. This temple, dating back to the Ptolemaic period, is dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus. The construction of the temple began during the reign of Ptolemy III (246 BC), and it features detailed wall carvings depicting the mythological battle between Horus and Seth, which was likely performed annually as a religious drama. You will return to the cruise by 10:00 AM.

At 10:30 AM, sail through the Esna Lock towards Luxor, with an estimated arrival time at 18:00. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent Luxor Temple, which was primarily built by Pharaoh Amenhotep III during the New Kingdom and later completed by Tutankhamun and Ramses II. The First Pylon of the temple was erected by Ramses II and is adorned with scenes from his military battle at Kadesh.

After the visit, enjoy dinner and overnight aboard the cruise. For an additional experience, you can opt for the Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple for just $40 per person.

Overnight on board the cruise.

Optional trip Balloon ride over the valley of the Kings 80 $ per person Breakfast on the board on the Nile cruise, Breakfast on the Nile Cruise, Visit the west bank of Luxor and Karnak The Valley of the Kings: Once  called the great Place of the Truth, this valley is Called now the valley of the Kings, It is a Majestic domain of the Pharaohs who once lay in great stone Sarcophagi, awaiting immortality, The isolated valley behind Deir el Bahri is dominated by the Pyramid-Shaped Mountain Peak The colossi of Memnon: Massive  pair statues Known as the  Colossi of Memnon, Rising about 18 M from the plain, They are the remains of what was once the largest  complex on the west bank, Built by Amenhotep the Third The Queen Hatshepsut temple : Rising out of the desert Plain, in a series of terraces, The temple of Hatshepsut Mergs with sheer limestone Cliffs of the eastern face of the Theban Mountain as if Nature herself had built this Extraordinary monument. Karnak Temple :
Karnak temple is more than A temple, is a spectacular Complex of Sanctuaries, Kiosks, Pylons, and Obelisks, All dedicated to the Theban gods and to the Greater Glory of Egypt`s Pharaohs, Karnak was the Most Important place for the worship of the Theban Triad(Amun, Mut, and Khonso) Lunch during the trip- drive to Hurghada

Spend your day soaking up the sun on the pristine sandy beaches of Hurghada, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. Relax in the luxury of your resort in Sahel Hashesh, where you can enjoy refreshing drinks, mouthwatering fresh seafood, and a variety of international cuisines. With a range of activities and services available, indulge in beachside relaxation, take a dip in the warm Red Sea, or explore the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling or diving. Enjoy impeccable service and modern amenities, ensuring a memorable and relaxing day in one of Egypt’s top coastal destinations.

Spend another blissful day soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters at your luxurious resort in Hurghada. Whether you choose to relax on the pristine beaches, indulge in refreshing cocktails, or explore the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling or diving, Hurghada offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With world-class amenities and stunning views, it's the ideal place to unwind and experience the beauty of Egypt's Red Sea coast.

Enjoy a full day of relaxation and adventure in Hurghada, where the sun, sea, and luxury resort await. For those seeking excitement, consider an optional trip to the Dolphin House for an extraordinary snorkeling experience. Dive into the waters and witness a pod of 60-80 dolphins swimming and playing just inches away. Savor a freshly prepared lunch on board before heading back to your hotel. In addition to the Dolphin House, Hurghada offers a range of exciting excursions, including desert safaris, quad biking, windsurfing, kite surfing, and glass-bottom boat rides. Explore the Red Sea’s underwater world or take a trip through the golden sands-Hurghada is the perfect place for both relaxation and adventure.

Relax and enjoy the sun and sea at your luxurious resort in Hurghada. For those seeking adventure, we offer an optional Quad Safari in the Hurghada Desert. This thrilling excursion takes you on an exciting ride through the vast golden sand dunes, offering spectacular views of the desert landscape. Explore the rugged terrain while feeling the adrenaline rush of riding an ATV. You will also have the chance to visit a Bedouin village, where you can experience the local culture and hospitality, enjoy a traditional Bedouin tea, and learn about the desert way of life. This unforgettable adventure provides the perfect balance of excitement and exploration while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Egyptian desert. Afterward, return to the resort to relax and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

After an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s ancient wonders and stunning landscapes, it's time to bid farewell. You will be transferred from your hotel in Hurghada to the airport for your flight back to Cairo. Enjoy a smooth and comfortable journey as you reflect on the incredible memories you've created. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, the majestic temples of Luxor, or the serene beauty of the Red Sea in Hurghada, this 12-day adventure will stay with you forever. Safe travels and we look forward to welcoming you on your next unforgettable adventure!