12 Days Cairo Alexandria & Nile Cruise

When your plane lands in Cairo, we will be there to meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. You can relax and recover from the stress of flying before starting your exciting adventures in Egypt.

In the morning, a tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in a private, air-conditioned car to start your amazing day of exploration.

Giza Pyramids
First, you'll visit the Pyramids of Giza, the only remaining wonder of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These iconic pyramids include the Pyramid of Khufu (also known as the Great Pyramid), the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure, each showcasing Egypt's ancient grandeur. You will also have the chance to explore the lesser-known Queen Pyramids, which were built for royal women and the elite, as well as labor villages, temples, and tombs associated with the pyramids.

Great Sphinx of Giza
Next, head to the Great Sphinx of Giza, one of the world's most famous statues. This majestic figure, carved from limestone, combines a lion's body with a human head, believed to represent the Pharaoh Khafre. The Sphinx, originally painted in red ochre, has stood the test of time for millennia.

The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities
Your day continues with a visit to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, which houses over 25,000 artifacts from the Pharaonic era, making it one of the richest collections of Egyptian art in the world. The museum's crown jewel is the collection of treasures from King Tutankhamun's tomb, discovered in 1922 by Howard Carter. You will see his gold mask, royal jewelry, and many other incredible pieces from ancient Egypt.

Lunch
After exploring the museum, you'll break for a delicious Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic dishes (drinks not included).

Khan El Khalili Bazaar
After lunch, you'll visit the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s bustling market. This vibrant market is filled with shops selling a variety of goods, from local handicrafts to jewelry, spices, and souvenirs. It is a perfect place to get a sense of the local culture and pick up something special to take home.

Finally, after a full day of sightseeing, we will take you back to your hotel to relax and reflect on your incredible experiences in Cairo.

In the morning, your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your Nile cruise in a private, air-conditioned vehicle to begin your exciting day exploring the historic city of Luxor. Here's the schedule for your day:

Karnak Temple
Your first stop will be the magnificent Karnak Temple, the largest religious site in the world. The temple complex dates back to around the 21st Dynasty (circa 11th century BC) and contains an impressive collection of monuments spanning nearly 3,000 years of history. It is dedicated primarily to the god Amun and is an awe-inspiring sight with its towering columns, massive statues, and expansive halls.

Luxor Temple
Next, you'll visit Luxor Temple, built by Amenhotep III and later expanded by Ramses II. This temple is unique because it is one of the few temples that blends Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic influences. You'll have the chance to explore its majestic entrance and marvel at the well-preserved reliefs and statues that tell stories of ancient Egypt's glorious past.

After your visits to these iconic temples, you will return to your cruise ship to continue your journey along the Nile.

This excursion will give you a deep dive into the rich history and architectural wonders of ancient Luxor.

In the morning, your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your Nile cruise in a private, air-conditioned car to start your exciting day exploring the wonders of Luxor. Here's the itinerary for your day:

Valley of the Kings
Your first stop will be the Valley of the Kings, one of the most famous archaeological sites in Egypt. Here, you will visit three of the beautifully decorated tombs of the Pharaohs, which were carved into the desert rock. These tombs are filled with rich artwork and treasures meant to accompany the rulers in the afterlife. The valley is home to the tombs of many great pharaohs, including the famous tomb of King Tutankhamun.

Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
Next, you will visit the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari. This temple is dedicated to Hatshepsut, Egypt's only female pharaoh. The temple is a masterpiece of ancient Egyptian architecture, built into the cliffs of the mountain and designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. The temple is a series of terraces and ramps, with stunning reliefs depicting the queen’s reign and divine birth.

Colossi of Memnon
Continue the tour with a visit to the Colossi of Memnon, two giant stone statues that once stood at the entrance to the mortuary temple of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. These statues are impressive reminders of the grandeur of Egypt’s ancient past and have been standing guard over the valley for thousands of years.

After these incredible visits, your Egyptologist tour guide will take you back to your Nile cruise in Luxor. You will enjoy a delicious dinner on board and have a restful overnight stay as you continue your journey along the Nile River.

In the morning, your tour guide will pick you up from your Nile cruise to start your exciting day exploring two of Egypt’s fascinating temples:

Kom Ombo Temple
Your first stop will be the Kom Ombo Temple, a unique double temple located on the banks of the Nile. Built during the Ptolemaic period, it is dedicated to two deities: Horus, the falcon-headed god of the sky, and Sobek, the crocodile-headed god of the Nile. The temple is distinct for its symmetrical layout, with two entrances, two sanctuaries, and two sets of halls, one for each deity. Sobek was revered as the god who controlled the Nile’s waters, and he is said to have been the creator of the world according to some ancient legends. You’ll be captivated by the temple’s architecture and the scenic views along the river.

Edfu Temple
Next, you will visit Edfu Temple, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. Dedicated to Horus, the god of kingship and the sky, this temple was rediscovered in the mid-19th century and remains an impressive monument. The large stone structure is known for its well-preserved reliefs that depict scenes of the temple’s construction, the battle between Horus and Set, and the divine king Horus’s triumph over evil. It is a remarkable example of ancient Egyptian religious architecture and one of the most significant temples after Karnak.

After exploring these ancient wonders, your Egyptologist guide will take you back to your Nile cruise in Aswan. You will enjoy a relaxing dinner on board and have a peaceful overnight stay as you continue your cruise along the majestic Nile River.

In the morning, your Egyptologist guide will pick you up from your Nile cruise to start your exciting tour in Aswan. Today, you will visit some of the region's most impressive landmarks:

Aswan High Dam
Your first stop will be the Aswan High Dam, an engineering marvel completed in 1970. The dam was built to control the annual flooding of the Nile and regulate water flow, providing a consistent water supply for Egypt’s agriculture. It also serves as a vital power source, generating hydroelectricity for the country.

Unfinished Obelisk
Next, you will visit the Unfinished Obelisk, located in the ancient granite quarry. This colossal obelisk was intended to be the largest ever built in ancient Egypt, but it was abandoned when cracks were discovered in the stone. At 42 meters long and weighing 1,200 tons, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Egyptian stoneworking techniques.

Philae Temple
Finally, you will travel to Philae Temple, located on an island in the Nile. This stunning temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis and is a key site in the Egyptian myth involving Isis, Osiris, and Horus. The temple’s beautiful location and intricate architecture make it a must-see in Aswan. The site was relocated in the 1960s due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam, ensuring the preservation of its history.

After completing these visits, your guide will take you back to your Nile cruise. You’ll have the evening to relax and enjoy dinner on board, followed by an overnight stay on the cruise as you continue your journey along the river.

After enjoying your breakfast on board the Nile cruise, you will be transferred to Aswan Airport for your flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, your private driver and tour guide will be waiting to escort you to your hotel in Cairo in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Once you arrive at your hotel, you can check-in and relax, recharging after your exciting journey.

Open Day in Cairo:
The rest of the day is free for you to explore Cairo at your own pace or rest. If you wish to make the most of your time, feel free to add any of the following optional tours to your itinerary:

• Cairo Day Tours: Explore more of Cairo's famous landmarks, such as the Coptic Cairo with the Hanging Church, Citadel of Salah El-Din, or visit the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar. You can also take a trip to Islamic Cairo and visit its historic mosques, or head to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization to explore more artifacts from Egypt's ancient past.

Please let us know if you would like to arrange any excursions, and we can customize your day based on your interests!

Private Tour to Alexandria from Cairo

After breakfast at your hotel in Cairo, your tour guide will meet you for a private, comfortable transfer to Alexandria, a beautiful coastal city located about three hours from Cairo. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria is a cultural and commercial hub of ancient Egypt and remains the second most important city in the country today.

1. Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

We begin our tour by visiting the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, an ancient burial site dating back to the Roman era. The catacombs feature three levels and combine Egyptian and Roman artistic influences, reflecting the cultural integration of the time.

2. Roman Theater

Next, we'll visit the Roman Theater in Alexandria. Built by the Nabataeans in the 1st century AD and expanded by the Romans, the theater was capable of seating up to 3,000 spectators. It’s a fascinating site that highlights the architectural style of the Romans and the cultural exchanges of the era.

3. Library of Alexandria

Afterward, we’ll head to the Library of Alexandria, a modern architectural marvel that pays homage to its ancient predecessor. The design of the building is inspired by the ancient Egyptian god Amun-Ra. The library features several museums, a planetarium, a laboratory, and a printing press, making it a vital center for culture and knowledge.
Note: The library is closed on Fridays and Saturdays, but you can enjoy the stunning exterior and the surrounding area.

4. Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque

We’ll also pass by the beautiful Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque, a stunning example of architecture blending ancient Egyptian styles with modern Islamic design. This mosque was built between 1929 and 1945 and is a testament to the city's diverse cultural heritage.

5. Lunch with Mediterranean Views

For lunch, we will visit a local restaurant overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy delicious Egyptian dishes such as grilled meats, rice, and salads. (Drinks are not included).

6. Qaitbay Citadel

After lunch, we’ll visit Qaitbay Citadel, a historic fortress located on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built in 1480 by Sultan Qaitbay, the citadel offers impressive views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding area.

Return to Cairo

After exploring these iconic sites, we’ll head back to Cairo and drop you off at your hotel, where you can relax after a fulfilling day of history and culture.

Let us know if you’d like to add or modify any parts of the tour!

Free Day to Explore Cairo at Your Leisure

Enjoy a full day to explore Cairo on your own terms. Take the time to discover the city’s vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and rich history at your own pace.

If you wish to enhance your experience with any additional excursions, please let us know. You can explore a variety of Cairo Day Tours, offering exciting activities throughout the city.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you will be picked up in a private car by an expert guide for a full-day tour. Begin with a visit to the Salah El-Din Citadel and the stunning Alabaster Mosque of Mohammed Ali, designed by the Turkish architect Yousif Boushnaq. This mosque served as the heart of Egypt for over 700 years.

Next, head to a well-regarded local restaurant for lunch. On the second day of your Cairo adventure, you will explore Old Cairo, where you'll visit historic sites like the Hanging Church and the Church of Abu Serga. At the end of the day, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

The Hanging Church
The Hanging Church, located in the Coptic Quarter, is one of the most famous churches in Cairo. It is known for being built on one of the gates of the Roman fort, and its wooden dome is shaped like Noah's Ark, as described in the Old Testament.

Ben Ezra Synagogue
Originally a church, the Ben Ezra Synagogue was sold in the 9th century to Abraham Ben Ezra. He purchased the church to raise funds for taxes imposed by the Roman authorities.

Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque
The Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque, built in 642 AD, is the oldest mosque on the African continent. It was constructed during the early days of Cairo's settlement in Fustat, the capital of Egypt at the time.

After your visit, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can taste Egyptian dishes (drinks not included).

Khan El Khalili Bazaar
After lunch, you’ll visit the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s main market. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it’s always bustling with tourists and locals alike. Explore the maze of shops offering everything from souvenirs to local crafts, and immerse yourself in the heart of Cairo's lively market scene.

Finally, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel in Cairo.

Free Day to Explore Cairo at Your Own Pace

Enjoy a day at your leisure to explore Cairo on your own. If you’d like to add any excursions or activities during your stay, feel free to check out our selection of Cairo Day Tours. We offer a variety of exciting experiences to enhance your visit to this vibrant city.

After enjoying your breakfast, you will be transferred to Cairo Airport for your final departure.