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8 Day itinerary in Egypt, Africa

8-Day Egyptian Odyssey: Nile Cruise in 19th-Century Style...

Discover the wonders of Egypt on this captivating 8-days journey. Begin in the bustling city of Cairo, where you’ll marvel at the iconic Pyramids of Giza, the enigmatic Sphinx, and the extensive collection at the Grand Egyptian Museum. Continue your adventure to the picturesque city of Aswan, with i... Read More

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Khaled

By Khaled

Overview

Physical Difficulty

Easy
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Recommended Age

Everyone

Operated in

English, French, German

GUIDANCE

On Some Day Trips

starting point

Cairo

trip type

Private

trip attributes

Visit markets

Meet local people

Adventure

Sailing

Culture & History

Purposeful Travel

Start

Night

End

Highlights

1

Aswan -Luxor & Abo Simbel

2

sailing With Dahapiya to Kom ombo and Esna Temple

3

Great Pyramids of Giza, including the iconic Sphinx. Memphis & Saqqara

4

Egyptian Museum, Mohamed Ali Citdael & Khan El Khalili Bazzar

Itinerary

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Day 1

place Sunday : Welcome to Egypt

Upon arrival in Cairo, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax and explore the city at your own pace.

Guide: Included for the day

Accommodation:

  • 4-5 *: Baron Hotel Cairo
Day 2

place Monday : Full day Pyramids , Memphis saqqara

Discover the grandeur of ancient Egypt on this immersive full-day guided tour, covering three of the country's most iconic archaeological destinations. From the towering pyramids to the ruins of the first capital, this experience takes you deep into Egypt’s extraordinary past.

Tour Overview

The Great Pyramids of Giza
Your day begins with a visit to the legendary Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Explore the massive structures of Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, each built over 4,500 years ago. Your expert guide will explain the architectural ingenuity, astronomical precision, and historical context behind these enduring symbols of ancient Egypt.

The Great Sphinx
A short walk from the pyramids lies the Great Sphinx of Giza, a massive limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, widely believed to depict King Khafre. Learn about its cultural significance, myths, and the various restoration efforts that have preserved it over millennia.

Memphis – Ancient Capital of Egypt
After Giza, continue south to Memphis, the first capital of unified Egypt founded around 3100 BCE. Once a political and cultural powerhouse, the site now hosts an open-air museum featuring significant artifacts, including the monumental statue of Ramses II and the alabaster sphinx.

Saqqara and the Step Pyramid of Djoser
Your final stop is Saqqara, the vast necropolis of the ancient capital. Here you’ll visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in Egypt and the first monumental stone structure in history. Designed by the architect Imhotep, this pyramid marked a revolution in royal tomb construction. Walk through ancient tombs, temples, and corridors while discovering the development of pyramid building techniques.

Lunch Break

A traditional Egyptian lunch will be served at a carefully selected local restaurant during the tour. The meal offers a variety of dishes to suit different tastes, with vegetarian options available upon request.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:

  • 4-5 *: Baron Hotel Cairo
Day 3

place Tuesday : Egyptian Museum , Mohamed Ali Citadel and Khan El Khalili

Uncover the cultural treasures of Cairo before flying south for an unforgettable evening in a traditional Nubian village. This expertly guided full-day experience combines ancient artifacts, Islamic architecture, bustling bazaars, and immersive cultural encounters—all within one seamless, enriching itinerary.


Visit to the Egyptian Museum

Begin your day with a journey into the heart of Egypt’s ancient history at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to the world’s most extensive collection of Pharaonic antiquities. Explore over 120,000 artifacts that span thousands of years, including intricately carved statues, ancient scrolls, royal mummies, and entire sections dedicated to daily life in Ancient Egypt.

The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the Treasures of Tutankhamun, including the young Pharaoh’s iconic gold funerary mask, his jewel-encrusted sarcophagus, ceremonial items, and everyday belongings discovered in his intact tomb in the Valley of the Kings.

The Citadel of Salah El-Din and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali
Next, ascend to the Citadel of Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 12th century by Salah El-Din (Saladin) as a fortress to defend the city. From here, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Cairo’s skyline, including glimpses of minarets, domes, and the pyramids in the distance on a clear day.

Inside the citadel stands the magnificent Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque. This 19th-century Ottoman-style mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, adorned with domes, chandeliers, and a richly decorated prayer hall. Your guide will share insights into the mosque's history, religious significance, and its role in modern Egyptian identity.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Break for a delicious lunch at a well-rated local restaurant where you’ll sample authentic Egyptian cuisine, such as grilled meats, stuffed vegetables, mezze dishes, and traditional desserts. Vegetarian and special dietary options are available upon request.

Explore Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
In the afternoon, dive into the lively atmosphere of Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s most famous marketplace and a true sensory experience. Wander through narrow alleyways lined with shops selling spices, perfumes, textiles, jewelry, lanterns, and handcrafted souvenirs.

This is the perfect place to practice your bargaining skills, take vibrant photos, or simply soak in the energy of this centuries-old commercial hub. Enjoy a traditional mint tea or Arabic coffee at the historic El Fishawy Café, a favorite meeting point for artists and writers for generations.


Evening Flight to Aswan and Nubian Village Overnight Stay

After your Cairo explorations, you’ll be transferred to the airport for a short domestic flight to Aswan. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your local guide and driven to a Nubian village along the Nile, where your overnight accommodation awaits.

Here, you’ll experience a unique and peaceful side of Egyptian culture, far removed from the urban pace of Cairo. The colorful mud-brick houses, vibrant murals, and warm hospitality of the Nubian people offer a culturally immersive stay. Enjoy a traditional home-cooked dinner, relax under the stars by the river, and learn about Nubian music, language, and customs firsthand.

This overnight experience is ideal for travelers seeking authentic cultural connection and a deeper appreciation of Egypt’s diverse heritage.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:

  • 4-5 *: Nub Inn
Day 4

place Wednesday : Free Day or Optional Trip to Abo Simbel

Enjoy a free day to relax in Aswan or choose an optional guided tour to the incredible Abu Simbel temples, one of Egypt’s most magnificent ancient sites. Return to Aswan by the afternoon.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • 4-5 *: Nub Inn
Day 5

place Thursday : Half day Tour High Dam , Unfinished Oblisk and Philae Temple & sailing to Kom Ombo

Start your day with a guided visit to the enchanting Temple of Philae, a jewel of ancient Egyptian architecture nestled on Agilkia Island. Accessible only by boat, this beautifully preserved temple is dedicated to Isis—the goddess of magic, healing, and motherhood. As you approach the island, you’ll be captivated by the serene atmosphere and the elegant columns that rise dramatically from the Nile waters. Your expert guide will walk you through the temple’s fascinating history, including its relocation during the UNESCO-led rescue mission following the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

After this spiritual and scenic introduction to Upper Egypt, you'll board your private Dahabiya—an elegant, wind-powered traditional sailing boat that offers an intimate and luxurious way to explore the Nile. Unlike the larger cruise ships, a Dahabiya allows for a more tranquil, authentic experience with personalized service and the ability to dock at smaller, less-visited sites. Settle into your cabin, enjoy a welcome drink on deck, and begin your journey northward along the legendary river.

Your first stop is the ancient town of Kom Ombo. Here, you’ll disembark to explore the unique double temple built during the Ptolemaic period. Unlike any other temple in Egypt, Kom Ombo is symmetrically divided to honor two gods: Sobek, the crocodile-headed god of fertility and protector of the Nile, and Horus the Elder, the falcon-headed god of the sky and kingship. Marvel at the intricate carvings, well-preserved hieroglyphs, and the fascinating Nilometer used by ancient Egyptians to measure the river’s flood levels. Don’t miss the adjacent Crocodile Museum, where mummified crocodiles and relics bring ancient worship practices to life.

Return to your Dahabiya and continue sailing toward Edfu. As the sun sets over the palm-fringed banks of the Nile, relax on the upper deck with tea and traditional Egyptian sweets, watching daily life unfold along the river—fishermen casting nets, children waving from the shore, and water buffaloes grazing in the distance. The evening onboard is yours to enjoy, with a chef-prepared dinner served under the stars and stories of the river shared by your guide or fellow travelers.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

place Friday : Visit Edfu and sail to luxor

Begin your morning with a captivating journey to the island temple of Philae—one of Egypt’s most romantic and spiritually significant sites. Set on the tranquil Agilkia Island, this exquisite sanctuary was meticulously relocated block-by-block to save it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Dedicated to Isis, the goddess of love, healing, and magic, the temple complex boasts majestic colonnades, finely carved reliefs, and a peaceful setting that transports you into the heart of ancient myth. Your expert guide will walk you through the temple’s dramatic history, from the Pharaonic era to Greco-Roman influences and its transformation into a Coptic Christian church. Don’t forget your camera—the views from the island across the Nile are breathtaking.

After your tour, return to the shore and board your Dahabiya—a beautifully crafted traditional wooden sailing boat designed for comfort, privacy, and elegance. With just a handful of cabins, personalized service, and a gentle pace, the Dahabiya offers a more intimate and exclusive way to cruise the Nile, far from the crowds of larger ships. As the sail catches the wind, relax on the shaded upper deck with a refreshing drink in hand and enjoy a slow-paced glide along one of the world’s most legendary rivers.

Your first stop is the town of Kom Ombo, home to a one-of-a-kind double temple that stands dramatically along the riverbank. Unlike any other temple in Egypt, Kom Ombo is perfectly symmetrical—divided in two to honor both Sobek, the crocodile god associated with strength and fertility, and Horus the Elder, the falcon-headed god of kingship and protection. Explore the richly decorated halls, sacred chambers, and ancient surgical tools carved into the walls, hinting at the temple's role as a center for healing. Be sure to visit the small but fascinating Crocodile Museum nearby, which houses dozens of mummified crocodiles once worshipped by ancient Egyptians.

Back aboard the Dahabiya, continue your leisurely sail northward. As the landscape shifts, watch the lush riverbanks come to life—green fields, swaying palm trees, and glimpses of rural Egyptian life. Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch onboard and take the afternoon to unwind, read, or simply watch the timeless scenes of the Nile unfold.

The next morning, you'll arrive in Edfu, where a horse-drawn carriage (or a short drive) takes you to the Temple of Horus—one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt. Towering pylons, richly decorated walls, and an immense courtyard await you. Built during the Ptolemaic period, this temple honors Horus, the falcon-headed god of protection and justice, and features detailed reliefs depicting the eternal battle between Horus and Seth. Walking through its massive stone halls feels like stepping back 2,000 years in time.

Following your visit, return to the Dahabiya and continue your scenic voyage toward Luxor. As you sail through the heart of Upper Egypt, soak in the ever-changing views: traditional mudbrick villages, water buffaloes grazing at the river’s edge, and children waving from the shore. Enjoy another chef-prepared meal on deck, followed by tea and stories under the stars. The rhythm of the Nile sets the pace—calm, unhurried, and rich with history.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

place Saturday : Full day West Bank , Luxor and Karnak Temple

Enjoy a full-day immersive tour of Luxor’s ancient treasures, starting with the legendary West Bank.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Valley of the Kings, where Egypt’s greatest pharaohs—including Tutankhamun and Ramses II—were laid to rest in elaborately decorated tombs carved deep into the desert cliffs. Walk through the corridors of history, marveling at the colorful hieroglyphics and sacred symbols that have survived thousands of years.

Next, head to the breathtaking Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, one of the most remarkable architectural achievements of ancient Egypt. Built into the dramatic cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, this mortuary temple honors Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh and offers sweeping views over the Nile Valley.

Stop briefly to admire the Colossi of Memnon, two massive seated statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood guard over the Theban necropolis for more than 3,000 years.

After lunch at a local restaurant, cross the Nile to Luxor’s East Bank to continue your exploration. Visit the vast Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest religious structures ever built. Wander through its colossal hypostyle hall, where 134 towering columns seem to stretch endlessly skyward, and discover shrines, obelisks, and sacred lakes that tell the story of ancient Thebes.

Conclude your day with a visit to the elegant Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated in the soft afternoon light. Unlike Karnak, Luxor Temple was dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship and was often used for royal ceremonies.

As evening falls, check in at your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest, surrounded by the magic of ancient Luxor.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:

  • 4-5 *: Iberotel Luxor
Day 8

place Sunday : Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Luxor Airport to catch your flight back home—taking with you unforgettable memories of Egypt’s ancient wonders and rich cultural encounters.

Alternatively, if you wish to extend your journey, you may choose to stay a few extra days in Luxor, allowing time to relax, explore more temples and museums at your own pace, or enjoy a leisurely felucca ride on the Nile at sunset.

For those seeking rest and rejuvenation by the sea, consider heading to Hurghada on the Red Sea coast. Just a few hours’ drive from Luxor, Hurghada offers beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. Whether you prefer lounging under the sun or exploring vibrant coral reefs, it’s the perfect way to unwind after an adventure-filled tour.

Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

Accommodation expand_less

  • Baron Hotel Cairo
  • Nub Inn
  • Iberotel Luxor

Meals expand_less

  • Breakfast (7)
  • Lunch (5)
  • Dinner (2)

Transport expand_less

  • Al Transfer from to airport ,& Tours
  • Flight Cairo -Aswan

Activities expand_less

  • Al Sightseeing as per Itinerary
  • Al Entrance Fees

Not Included expand_less

  • Fuel surcharge -Tips - Visa (35$) Extra Meals or Beverages

About Khaled

TEAM LEAD

verified Baboo Certified

star_outline 5 (1 reviews)

Expertise: 

Indigenous culture

Train & Rail

Jeep & 4WD

Visit markets

Meet local people

Eco

Landscapes & Sceneries

Rural home stays

Safari

Sailing

Sun & Beach

Sustainable Travel

Wildlife

Multi-Country

Luxury

Culture & History

Pilgrimage

Purposeful Travel

Food & Culinary

Water & Coastline

I’ve explored Egypt and the Gulf in depth. I’ve built real friendships with local communities and always seek to create meaningful cultural encounters for my clients. For me, connecting with people is as important—if not more—than site visits.

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