Embark on this 10-day Egypt tour to explore the essential highlights that Egypt has to offer, including the visits to the Pyramids and a Cairo City Tour, as well as a Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor. Then you will have 2-day adventure to the White Desert National Park in the Western Desert of Egypt. The 2-day excursion from Cairo to the White Desert promises an exhilarating adventure in the desert wilderness and its surroundings. You’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of the Black Desert and White Desert, camp under the starry night sky, and indulge in delicious food prepared by your guide.
This 10-day Egypt tour package is fully customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific interests and preferences.
Overview
Commence your journey by exploring the marvels of Cairo and the enigmatic Giza Pyramids. Immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich history as you cruise down the Nile on a luxurious five-star Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor. Finally, embark on a thrilling 2-day adventure excursion from Cairo to the Black and White Deserts in Egypt’s Western Desert for a unique desert experience, including one night of camping under the starry night sky. Discover Egypt in comfort and style on this extraordinary tour.
Trip Highlights
- Visit the Pyramids of Giza and see the mythical Sphinx
- Cruise along the Nile from Aswan to Luxor
- Explore the stunning Aswan and the West Bank of Luxor
- 2 day Oasis and Desert Camp Tour to White Desert National Park
Itinerary
Welcome to Egypt! Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, you're met at the airport by an GrandAisaTour representative and driven to your hotel in Cairo in a private air-conditioned vehicle for check-in. It's time to relax and enjoy your stay at the Cairo hotel. Have a comfortable overnight stay in Cairo as you prepare to explore the wonders of Egypt in the following days.
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will be met at your hotel by your private guide and driver for a full day tour to visit the Pyramids and Cairo city.
You will spend morning to visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, the sole surviving wonder of the Ancient World. Marvel at these incredible structures that have stood the test of time. You will also have the opportunity to witness the famous Sphinx and explore the Valley Temple in Giza Necropolis.
Afternoon visit the Egyptian Museum, home to an unparalleled collection of Egyptian antiquities. With over 120,000 items on display and many more stored in its basement, this museum is a treasure trove of history. Among its renowned collections are the Tutankhamun Treasures, a must-see highlight.
Your day ends with a visit to the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a lively and entertaining part of Cairo where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and have a cup of coffee or tea.
(In the evening, you can have the optional tour to attend the Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids for a captivating experience, fee is not included).
You will be transferred to Cairo Airport to catch your early morning flight to Aswan. Upon arrival at the Aswan airport, you will be greeted and have a tour of Aswan to visit the famous High Dam of Aswan and the romantic Temple of Philae on the stunning Isis Island, afterwards transfer you to your Nile Cruise, lunch & dinner on board, and overnight on your 5-star standard Nile cruise.
(Optional Early morning excursion to Abu Simbel by road with a breakfast box - ensuring you don't miss any part of the tour).
Following breakfast, you'll have some free time to relax. Later, enjoy a delicious lunch on board the Nile Cruise.
In the afternoon, your journey continues as you sail along the fertile banks of the Nile, heading to the remarkable Kom Ombo Temples.
As you glide further down the Nile, you'll arrive at the city of Edfu. There, you will have dinner and spend the night on your luxurious 5-star standard Nile Cruise.
Today's adventure begins with a visit to Edfu Temple, renowned as the largest and best-preserved Greco-Roman temple in existence. Its walls bear witness to the grand tales crafted between 237 BC and 57 BC, depicting the celestial battle between Horus and the malevolent god Seth. Afterward, you'll return to the Nile cruise for a delicious breakfast.
As the cruise continues its journey, you'll sail towards Luxor, enjoying lunch on board. Along the way, you'll pass through the Esna lock.
Upon your arrival in Luxor at around 04:00 PM, you'll embark on a tour of the East Bank of Luxor. Here, you will visit Karnak Temple, It is the largest temple complex ever built by man. It represents the combined achievement of many generations of ancient builders and Pharaohs. The Temple of Karnak is actually three main temples on 247 acres of land. And continue after that to visit Luxor temple, it is a large Ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile River in the city today known as Luxor and was constructed approximately 1400 BCE. In the Egyptian language it was known as ipet resyt, "the southern sanctuary".
overnight on board the nile cruise ship.
(Optional Early morning tour to have hot air balloon ride over Luxor's West Bank with a breakfast box - ensuring you don't miss any part of the tour).
After breakfast on the cruise, it's time to check out and embark on a series of captivating sightseeing adventures.
Your first stop will be the world famous Valley of the Kings. This valley served as the burial grounds for pharaohs and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom for nearly 500 years, spanning from the 16th to the 11th century BC. It is the richest archaeological site on earth.
Next visit is to the breathtaking Temple of Hatshepsut (Deir al-Bahri), a remarkable ancient structure honoring Queen Hatshepsut, one of Egypt's few female pharaohs. This mortuary temple is renowned for its unique design, featuring three terraced levels carved into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahri.
Finally you will visit the great Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. These statues stand prominently at the entrance of the Mortuary Temple of Amenhotep III, the largest temple within the Theban Necropolis.
Luxor airport drop off and fly to Cairo for overnight.
Your exciting journey to the White Desert and Bahariya Oasis begins with a pickup from your hotel in Cairo. Your driver will then transport you to the Bahariya Oasis, which is approximately a 4-hour drive from Cairo. Upon arrival, you will meet your local tour guide, and a delightful lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Your adventure kicks off with a visit to the Black Desert, renowned for its striking black volcanic hills and dolerite rocks. Following this, you'll explore the Bedouin valley and have the opportunity to take a dip in the sulfur water.
Next, your journey takes you to Crystal Mountain in the Agabat Valley, where you can marvel at the deposits of quartz crystals. Afterward, you'll have the chance to enjoy sandboarding.
Continuing on, you'll head to the White Desert National Park, where you can witness the graceful wind-carved rock formations and explore the Valley of the Tents, where rocks resemble tent-like structures. Finally, transfer to the white desert campsite, where you will be served a delicious dinner cooked by your tour guide.
Your day begins with a hearty breakfast at the campsite. Following breakfast, you'll set off for the Bahariya Oasis to visit the English Mountain, which played a significant role during World War I. Afterward, explore the captivating sand dunes and the salt lake of Bawiti.
Later in the day, savor a delicious lunch at Bahariya Oasis before embarking on your return journey to Cairo.
You have a free day today. Participate in one of the optional trips to Alexandria or join any other optional sightseeing tours of Cairo.
Your time is free today for some last minute sightseeing or shopping until we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. If you have an afternoon or evening flight departure, then you might consider to have a half-day tour of Coptic Cairo and the Citadel, or take half-day tour to learn more about the evolution of pyramid building at Saqqara, Dashour & Memphis (fee will be on your own).
The Trip Cost Includes
- 1. Accommodation
- - 3 nights in twin-share rooms onboard a luxury 4/5 star Nile cruise ship full board basis
- - 5 nights in twin-share rooms at 4/5 star Cairo hotel with breakfast
- - 1 Camping at the desert (Including the camping equipments).
- * Please be aware that all accommodations are subject to change until 2-4 weeks before the departure date. Final accommodation details will be provided to you with your finalized travel documents.
- 2. Guide: Experienced English-speaking guide throughout tour
- 3. Meal: 9 Breakfasts/5 Lunches/ 4 Dinners
- *This tour offers Vegetarian, Vegan and Halal food options on request. Simply let us know the food option that you prefer.
- 4. Transportation:
- - Domestic Flight Cairo/Aswan, Luxor/Cairo
- - Ground tour with A/C vans.
- - Desert safari by 4X4 jeep.
- 5. Entrance tickets: Entrance fees for the included sightseeing.
- 6. Other fees: Government tax and travel agency handling fee.
The Trip Cost Excludes
- 1. Egypt Visa of Egypt.
- 2. Any optional visits/tours for an additional cost(Please contact our team of Travel Experts if you want to add some of them to your tour.)
- - Visit to any of Giza Pyramids from inside.
- - Visit to any tombs in the Valley of the Kings requiring extra tickets.
- - Any optional visits/tours are available on this tour.
- - Sound & Light show at the Pyramids
- 3. Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- 4. Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
- 5. Travel insurance.
- 6. Tipping to your guide & driver.
- 7. International Flights arrival at & Departure from Cairo
Frequently asked Questions
The ideal time to visit Egypt is during the months from October to April when you can expect pleasant temperatures and abundant sunshine. Among these, the winter months of November to February are the most popular for tourists seeking to escape colder climates and explore attractions like Cairo and the pyramids.
Spring and autumn also offer excellent weather conditions with fewer crowds, making them great choices for planning your Egypt holiday packages. The shoulder months of October, March, and April, in particular, provide pleasant weather and fewer tourists, ideal for visiting the main attractions and enjoying a Nile River cruise.
On the other hand, the summer months, from May to September, can be quite hot with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to over 100°F. During this time, tourist numbers decrease due to the harsh daytime sun, but it’s a good period to explore Egypt’s coastal areas and relax at seaside resorts.
Tourists from many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, New Zealand, and EU nations, can easily obtain a renewable, single-entry visa upon arrival at select Egyptian airports (listed below). These tourist visas typically allow for a 30-day stay and cost $25. Alternatively, travelers have the option to apply for a multiple-entry visa for $60. Currently, there are no mandatory vaccination requirements for entering Egypt.
However, guests who travel with us receive visa services as a standard inclusion in their trip. For all nationalities eligible for visa on arrival, the visa fee is already included in the trip price. Upon arrival at the airport, our representative will assist in getting your passport stamped, allowing you to proceed directly to the luggage carousel.
For more detailed information, you can visit the official Egyptian eVisa website or contact the nearest Egyptian consulate or embassy.
To apply for an Egyptian tourist visa, you will need a passport with at least six months of validity and at least one blank page. Visa on arrival entry points in Egypt are available at the following airports:
- Cairo International Airport
- Hurghada International Airport
- St Catherine International Airport, St Catherine
- Borg El Arab International Airport, Alexandria
- Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
- Luxor International Airport
Egypt had been actively working to ensure the safety of tourists, and many areas in the country were considered safe for travel. However, it’s important to note that the safety situation can change, and it’s advisable to check the latest travel advisories and updates from your government’s foreign affairs department or embassy before planning your trip.
Here are some general safety tips for traveling to Egypt:
- Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on the current political and security situation in Egypt through reliable news sources and government travel advisories.
- Follow Local Advice: While in Egypt, follow the advice of local authorities and respect any curfews or safety measures that may be in place.
- Be Cautious in Certain Areas: Some regions, particularly near the border areas, may have specific safety concerns. Research your itinerary and exercise caution in these areas.
- Secure Your Belongings: Like in any other destination, take precautions to secure your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items in public.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs, traditions, and dress codes, especially when visiting religious sites.
Before traveling to Egypt, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional or travel medicine clinic to ensure that you are up to date on routine vaccinations and to discuss any additional health precautions. Here are some health considerations and precautions for traveling to Egypt:
- Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that your routine vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), influenza, and polio, are up to date.
- Hepatitis A and B: Consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and hepatitis B, as these viruses can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or bodily fluids.
- Typhoid: Typhoid vaccination is recommended, especially if you plan to eat street food or visit rural areas where sanitation may be an issue.
- Rabies: Depending on your activities and travel plans, a rabies vaccination may be advised. It’s particularly relevant if you’ll be in close contact with animals or plan to explore remote areas.
- Traveler’s Diarrhea: Traveler’s diarrhea is a common issue in Egypt. Carry diarrhea medication and practice good hygiene, such as handwashing and avoiding tap water.
- Food and Water Precautions: Be cautious about consuming food and beverages from street vendors. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice in your drinks.
- Mosquito-Borne Diseases: While the risk is generally low in Egypt, consider using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants to protect against mosquito bites, which can transmit diseases like Zika and dengue.
- Sun Protection: Egypt’s climate can be extremely hot and sunny. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated to avoid sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
- Medical Insurance: Ensure that you have comprehensive travel medical insurance that covers emergency medical expenses and evacuation.
- Medications: Bring any necessary prescription medications in their original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription. Also, carry a basic medical kit with essentials like pain relievers, bandages, and antiseptics.
The duration of a flight from the United States to Egypt can vary depending on your departure city and the specific flight route. On average:
- From New York to Cairo: It takes approximately 11 to 15 hours, depending on the flight route and any layovers.
- From Los Angeles to Cairo: The flight duration is typically around 22 hours, including layovers.
The exact duration may vary based on factors such as the airline, flight route, and layover times. It’s advisable to check with airlines for specific flight options and schedules. Delta, Air France, and other major carriers often operate flights to Egypt from various U.S. cities.
The best way to travel across longer distances in Egypt, such as from Cairo to Luxor, is by taking a domestic flight. For shorter distances and local exploration, it’s convenient to use private cars with a guide or choose organized tours.
Another popular and scenic way to explore Egypt is by taking a cruise along the Nile River. A Nile cruise typically runs between Luxor and Aswan, allowing travelers to discover the ancient civilizations and historic sites that flourished on the banks of the Nile. It provides a unique perspective on Egypt’s rich history and culture while offering a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
The time zone in Egypt is UTC+2 from October to April and UTC+3 from April to October.
When planning your trip to Egypt, here are some must-visit destinations and attractions:
- Cairo: Start your journey in the capital city where you can explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, home to countless ancient artifacts.
- Luxor: Visit Luxor to delve deeper into the wonders of ancient Egypt. Explore the Valley of the Kings, Colossi of Memnon, and the impressive Temple of Ramesses III.
- Aswan: Aswan is known for its serene beauty and historic sites. Explore the Temple of Philae, Edfu, and Kom Ombo temple complexes.
- Red Sea Resorts: Consider adding a beach stay in Hurghada or El Quseir, where you can relax, swim, and snorkel in the stunning coral reefs of the Red Sea.
- Alexandria: Head north to Alexandria to discover its Greco-Roman history, including sites like the Qaitbay Citadel and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
- Optional Jordan Extension: Many travelers combine their Egypt trip with a visit to Jordan to explore the ancient city of Petra and other historical sites.
The currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (LE or EGP), and it is divided into 100 piastres (PT). Banknotes are available in denominations of LE5, LE10, LE20, LE50, LE100, and LE200, while coins come in LE1, PT50, and PT25 denominations. You can use credit cards in larger hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for transactions in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available in major towns, and currency exchange can be done at banks and Forex outlets.
Modern Standard Arabic is the official language of Egypt. However, you’ll predominantly hear people speaking the Egyptian dialect, a colloquial variety of Modern Standard Arabic with some distinct words and pronunciation. Egyptian Arabic is widely understood across the region because Egyptian cinema and soap operas are popular in the Arab world.
English is also commonly spoken in tourist areas, and many guides, hotel staff, and service workers are proficient in English. In larger cities and towns, you should have no trouble communicating in English. However, in more remote areas, especially in Upper Egypt, English proficiency may be limited, and it’s helpful to have some basic Arabic phrases for communication.
