Discover the hidden gems of Egypt on this 12-day itinerary that takes you off the beaten track to explore the country’s rich history and culture. From ancient ruins to traditional markets, this tour offers a unique perspective on Egypt that is not to be missed.
Overview:
This 12-day Egypt itinerary is designed for travelers who want to explore the treasures of Egypt beyond the typical tourist trail. Starting in Cairo, you’ll visit the iconic pyramids and Sphinx before venturing to the lesser-known sites of Saqqara and Dahshur. From there, you’ll travel south to Luxor to explore the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and other ancient wonders. The tour then continues to Aswan and Abu Simbel before heading back north to Alexandria to explore the city’s rich history and culture. Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit traditional markets, sample local cuisine, and learn about the customs and traditions of Egypt.
Highlights:
- Visit the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
- Explore the lesser-known sites of Saqqara and Dahshur
- Discover the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple in Luxor
- Visit the temples of Abu Simbel
- Explore the rich history and culture of Alexandria
- Sample traditional Egyptian cuisine
- Shop in local markets and bazaars
- Learn about the customs and traditions of Egypt
Advantages:
- Discover the hidden gems of Egypt beyond the typical tourist trail
- Explore the rich history and culture of Egypt with a knowledgeable local guide
- Enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine and shop in local markets and bazaars
- Customize the tour to suit your needs, including changing the pickup time and adding additional sites
- Experience the best of ancient and modern Egypt on a single tour
Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
Day 2: Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza, Saqqara, and Dahshur
Day 3: Fly to Luxor, East and West Banks tour
Day 4: Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple
Day 5: Dendera and Abydos
Day 6: Drive to Aswan, Philae Temple, and Nubian Village visit
Day 7: Abu Simbel Temples
Day 8: Felucca ride on the Nile, Aswan market visit
Day 9: Fly to Alexandria, Pompey’s Pillar, and Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
Day 10: Alexandria Library, Montazah Palace, and Citadel of Qaitbay
Day 11: El Alamein and Wadi El Natrun Monastery visit
Day 12: Departure from Cairo
Inclusions:
- Accommodation in 4-star hotels with daily breakfast
- Domestic flights between Cairo/Luxor and Aswan/Alexandria
- Private air-conditioned transportation
- English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
- Felucca ride on the Nile
- Bottled water during tours
Exclusions:
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Meals and drinks (except for breakfast)
- Gratuities for guide and driver
Pricing Information:
Accommodation Plan (A) 5 stars:
Cairo:Le Méridien – Steigenberger Pyramids- Ramses Hilton- Helnan – Barcelo Pyramids- Pyramisa
Luxor: Steigenberger Nile.
Nile cruises: MS Emilio, MS Radamis, MS Princess, MS Sara
| 3 Stars | 4 Stars | 5 Stars | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price per person in DBL or TRPL Room | 2095 $ | 2165 $ | 2255 $ |
| Solo traveler | 3355 $ | 3475 $ | 3595 $ |
| Christmas & Easter – DBL or TRPL Room | 2800 $ | 2840 $ | 2900 $ |
| Christmas & Easter – Solo Traveler | 3950 $ | 4050 $ | 4150 $ |
Accommodation Plan (B) Luxury:
Cairo: Kempinski – Fairmont Cairo – Hilton Curnrad -Marriott Sheraton- Hilton Golf pyramids
Luxor: Hilton – Sonesta St. George.
Nile Cruises: MS Amwaj Nile Cruise, MS Nile Premium, MS Bule shadow, MS Jaz Jubilee, Crown Emperor, Steigenberger.
| All year round | Christmas and Easter | |
|---|---|---|
| Price per person in dbl room | 3085 $ | 3775 $ |
| Solo traveller | 4595 $ | 5235 $ |
Ultimate Luxury:
Cairo: Four Seasons -Marriott Mena House – Kempinski Nile Deluxe – Fairmont Nile Premium – Hyatt Regency
Luxor: Sofitel Winter Palace.
Nile cruises: Sanctuary Sun Boat – Oberoi Cruises – Movenpick Royal Cruises – Sonesta Cruises – Le Fayan – Ms Farah -MS Acamar
| All year round | Christmas and Easter | |
|---|---|---|
| Price per person in dbl room | 4750 $ | 5200 $ |
| Solo traveller | 7100 $ | 7700 $ |
Tips and Advice for Travelers:
- Bring comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking and exploring on this tour.
- Be prepared for the heat in Egypt, especially during the summer months. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
- Try the local cuisine and street food, but be cautious about food safety. Stick to reputable restaurants and avoid tap water.
- Respect the local culture and customs. Dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos of locals, and avoid public displays of affection.
- Be aware of scams and tourist traps. Always agree on the price before taking a taxi or purchasing any items in markets.
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water throughout the tour.
Trip Notes:
- This tour involves a fair amount of walking and climbing stairs. It may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
- The tour can be customized to suit your needs, including adding or removing sites and changing the pickup time.
- The order of the itinerary may change depending on the availability of flights and sites.
FAQs:
Is it safe to travel to Egypt? Yes, Egypt is a safe country to visit. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and follow the instructions of your guide.
Do I need a visa to visit Egypt? Yes, most visitors to Egypt require a visa. This can be obtained on arrival at the airport or in advance from an Egyptian embassy.
What is the best time of year to visit Egypt? The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April when the weather is cooler. However, even in the summer months, early morning and evening tours can be pleasant.
Can I customize the tour to suit my needs? Yes, we offer customizations to suit the needs of our travelers, including changing the pickup time and adding additional sites. Please contact us for more information.
Is it safe to eat street food in Egypt? While street food can be delicious, it’s important to be cautious about food safety. Stick to reputable restaurants and avoid tap water.