Day 1 – Arrive in Cairo
Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you’ll be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel to begin your journey through Egypt. The team will assist with check-in, help you get settled, and provide an overview of the days ahead.
Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore the city — take a stroll along the Nile Corniche, experience the energy of downtown Cairo, or simply unwind by the pool after your flight.
Most international flights arrive in the evening, but if you’d like to arrive earlier to adjust or explore at your own pace, we can arrange additional nights on request.
Overnight: Conrad Cairo (or similar)
Day 2 – Cairo: The Great Pyramids of Giza & Saqqara
This morning, begin your exploration of Egypt’s extraordinary ancient heritage with a visit to the iconic Giza Plateau, home to the Great Pyramids of Giza and the mysterious Sphinx. Learn about the construction, symbolism, and enduring legacy of these monumental structures — the last remaining wonders of the ancient world. Enjoy time to walk around the site, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere of one of the most famous archaeological landscapes on Earth.
After lunch, continue to Saqqara, the vast necropolis of ancient Memphis and site of Djoser’s Step Pyramid — the oldest stone pyramid in existence. Here, you’ll gain a fascinating contrast between the architectural styles of Saqqara and Giza, seeing how pyramid building evolved over the centuries.
Return to your hotel in Cairo in the late afternoon, with the evening free to relax or explore the city’s vibrant dining scene.
Overnight: Conrad Cairo (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 3 – Fly to Luxor & Discover the West Bank of the Nile
This morning, transfer to Cairo Airport for a short flight to Luxor, known in ancient times as Thebes, the city of temples and tombs. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and begin exploring one of the most remarkable open-air museums in the world.
Start your day on the West Bank of the Nile with a visit to the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood watch over the Theban necropolis for more than 3,000 years. Continue on to the legendary Valley of the Kings, the burial site of many of Egypt’s New Kingdom pharaohs. Explore several tombs renowned for their intricate hieroglyphs, vivid wall paintings, and well-preserved carvings — an awe-inspiring glimpse into ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife.
Next, visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a masterpiece of ancient architecture dramatically set against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, followed by a stop at Medinet Habu, the mortuary temple of Ramses III, known for its colourful reliefs and impressive scale.
In the afternoon, cross back over the Nile to your hotel in Luxor, set along the riverbank. Relax in the garden overlooking the Nile, enjoy the sunset with a refreshing drink, or simply take in the serene views of passing feluccas.
Overnight: Steigenberger Nile Palace, Luxor (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 4 – Luxor: Karnak & Luxor Temples | Board Nile Cruise
Begin your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest religious sites ever constructed and a true highlight of any visit to Egypt. Explore the vast halls, towering columns, colossal statues, and intricate hieroglyphs that make this ancient complex so extraordinary. Your guide will lead you through its main precincts, sharing insights into its fascinating history and the pharaohs who expanded it over more than a thousand years.
After your visit, transfer to the river to board your Nile Cruise, your comfortable floating hotel for the next few nights. The vessel remains docked in Luxor this evening, allowing time to settle in and enjoy the elegant surroundings.
In the evening, visit the beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple, an unforgettable sight when lit against the night sky. Walk along the Avenue of Sphinxes, which once connected the temples of Karnak and Luxor, and take in the enchanting atmosphere of ancient Thebes after dark.
Return to your cruise for dinner on board and a relaxing evening on the Nile.
Overnight: Onboard Nile Cruise (Steigenberger Legacy or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Morning
Evening
Day 5 – Sail from Luxor to Edfu
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Luxor. You may choose to relax on board your cruise ship, explore more of the city at your own pace, or revisit some of Luxor’s fascinating sites independently. The morning offers a wonderful opportunity to take in the atmosphere of this remarkable city before setting sail.
In the afternoon, your Nile cruise departs Luxor and begins its journey south toward Edfu. As the ship glides along the tranquil waters of the Nile, watch daily life unfold along its fertile banks — farmers tending their fields, fishermen casting nets, and children playing along the shoreline. The contrast between the lush greenery of the riverbanks and the golden sands of the desert beyond is truly captivating.
Relax on the sun deck, enjoy the gentle pace of sailing, and take in the timeless scenery that has inspired travellers for centuries. Keep an eye out for birdlife such as egrets, ibis, and herons, which are common sights along the river.
In the evening, the cruise will pass through the Esna Lock before mooring overnight in Edfu.
Overnight: Onboard Nile Cruise (Steigenberger Legacy or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Esna Lock
Day 6 – Edfu, Kom Ombo & Sail to Aswan
After breakfast, visit the Edfu Temple, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples, dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god of kingship, protection, and the sky. Explore the temple’s remarkable reliefs, statues, and inscriptions, and take in the impressive architecture of this ancient sanctuary.
Following your visit, the cruise continues upriver toward Kom Ombo, offering scenic views of the Nile and glimpses of traditional village life along the riverbanks. Relax on the sun deck, take in the passing scenery, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of sailing through Egypt’s heartland.
At Kom Ombo, tour the unique double temple, dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility, and Horus, the falcon-headed god of war and the sky. The temple is famous for its symmetrical design and houses fascinating artifacts, including mummified crocodiles.
Later in the day, continue sailing to Aswan, preparing for the next day’s early start. The evening aboard the cruise is a chance to unwind and reflect on the wonders you’ve encountered along the Nile.
Overnight: Onboard Nile Cruise (Steigenberger Legacy or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 7 – Aswan & Abu Simbel
Rise early this morning for a visit to the extraordinary Abu Simbel Temples, built by Ramses II and now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The main temple, with its four colossal statues of the pharaoh, was constructed to showcase the power and grandeur of his reign, while the smaller temple honors Queen Nefertari.
Arrive in time to watch the sunrise over the rock-hewn temples, revealing the changing colors and intricate details of the stone façade. Take time to explore the site, appreciating the scale, architectural precision, and the remarkable preservation of these monuments.
The morning offers free time to wander the temples and the surrounding area before returning to Aswan. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing aboard the cruise, reflecting on the majesty of one of Egypt’s most iconic sites.
Overnight: Onboard Nile Cruise (Steigenberger Legacy or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Day 8 – Disembark in Aswan & Explore Nubian Villages
This morning, disembark from your Nile Cruise in Aswan and transfer to your hotel, set on the banks of the Nile with stunning river views.
Spend the day visiting nearby Nubian villages, known for their vibrant colors, distinctive architecture, and welcoming local communities. Explore the streets, meet residents, and take in the lively atmosphere, contrasting with the ancient monuments of previous days. The region’s bright houses, traditional clothing, and artisan crafts offer a rich and memorable cultural experience.
There will also be time to enjoy the charm of Aswan town itself, with its market stalls, riverside promenades, and relaxed pace. Return to your hotel to relax on the terrace or in the gardens, taking in the beautiful Nile scenery. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant this evening.
Overnight: Mövenpick Hotel, Aswan (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 9 – Return to Cairo & Explore the City
This morning, transfer to Aswan Airport for a flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, begin exploring the city with a visit to the Citadel, perched high above the city, offering panoramic views of Cairo’s sprawling skyline.
Stroll through the bustling Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, where the narrow streets are filled with shops, cafés, and vibrant local life. Experience the energy of Cairo firsthand, taking in the sights, sounds, and colors of this historic marketplace. This is a perfect opportunity to observe daily city life, admire the architecture of minarets, and soak up the atmosphere of one of Egypt’s most famous urban centers.
The evening is free to relax or reflect on your journey through Egypt, enjoying a final dinner and sharing memories of the trip.
Overnight: Conrad Cairo (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast included
Day 10 – Departure from Cairo
Today, transfer to Cairo Airport for your onward flight home, carrying memories of Egypt’s extraordinary landscapes, temples, and culture. Reflect on your journey along the Nile and through ancient sites, and take with you the inspiration and experiences gathered during your trip.
Meals: Breakfast included
