We love —
- Discovering the treasures of ancient Egypt, including the Temple of Karnak, the Temple of Luxor and the Roman Theatre of Alexandria.
- Embarking on a cruise on the Nile and enjoying an authentic experience on board, with breathtaking views of the Egyptian landscape.
- Admiring the contrasts of Cairo, with its historic monuments such as Saladin's Citadel, the Mehmet Ali Mosque and the Coptic Quarter.
Customer reviews —
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 12 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
GROUP SIZE: 2 - 39 people
PACE: Active
Explore Egypt
Set out on an extraordinary journey through Egypt, where ancient civilisations, timeless landscapes and vibrant cities unfold over the course of this immersive tour. From the legendary pyramids of Giza and the bustling energy of Cairo to a serene cruise along the Nile, each stage reveals the grandeur of the pharaonic world at its most captivating.
Sail gently between monumental temples, explore sacred valleys and majestic sanctuaries, then complete your adventure with the Mediterranean elegance of Alexandria, where ancient history meets coastal charm. A deeply enriching experience blending culture, history and iconic scenery, designed to leave a lasting impression.
12 night tour:
Day 1: Arrive in Cairo
Day 2: Cairo
Day 3: Cairo → Luxor
Day 4: Luxor → Esna
Day 5: Esna → Edfu → Kom Ombo
Day 6: Kom Ombo → Aswan
Day 7: Aswan
Day 8: Aswan → Esna
Day 9: Esna → Luxor
Day 10: Luxor → Cairo
Day 11: Cairo
Day 12: Cairo ⇄ Alexandria
Day 13: Depart from Cairo
Your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same. The maximum group size is 39 people.
Your itinerary in detail —
12 night tour:
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN CAIRO
Arrive in Cairo International Airport (CAI), Egypt’s vast and vibrant capital, stretching along both banks of the majestic Nile. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed and assisted with entry formalities. You will then be transferred to your hotel, where you can settle in and begin to absorb the unique atmosphere of the city of a thousand minarets. The remainder of the day is at leisure, offering your first glimpse of Cairo’s lively rhythm.
Included:
- Shared roundtrip airport transfers from Cairo International Airport (CAI - with flight-inclusive bookings only)
- Night at Le Passage Hotel & Casino 5* (or similar)
DAY 2: CAIRO
After breakfast, set out for an unforgettable immersion into ancient Egypt with a visit to the legendary Giza Plateau. Stand before the iconic pyramids: Khufu (Cheops), the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, Khafre, rising proudly on its elevated base, and Menkaure, smaller yet equally majestic. At their feet, the enigmatic Great Sphinx watches silently over the plateau. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Memphis, the former capital of the ancient kingdom, where scattered remains hint at its former grandeur. The afternoon continues at Saqqara, home to the remarkable Step Pyramid of Djoser, the earliest monumental stone construction in human history.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- 1 x visit to the Giza Plateau
- Night at Le Passage Hotel & Casino 5* (or similar)
DAY 3: CAIRO → LUXOR
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight from Cairo to Luxor, gateway to Upper Egypt. Upon arrival in Luxor, you will be transferred to the port to embark on your Nile cruise ship. Settle into your cabin and enjoy lunch on board as the timeless scenery of the Nile begins to unfold. The afternoon is free to relax on deck, admire the riverbanks, or simply enjoy the calm pace of life on the water.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Domestic flight Cairo → Luxor
- Night aboard HM/S Nile Marquise
DAY 4: LUXOR → ESNA
After breakfast on board, cross to the west bank of the Nile for a deep dive into the heart of ancient Thebes. Begin with the legendary Valley of the Kings, sacred necropolis of the pharaohs of the 18th to 20th dynasties. Three tombs open their doors, revealing richly decorated chambers carved directly into the rock to protect the journey into the afterlife. Continue to the impressive Temple of Medinet Habu, built by Ramses III. This vast funerary complex stands out for its monumental scale, remarkably preserved reliefs and powerful atmosphere. On the return journey, stop for photos at the majestic Colossi of Memnon, two colossal statues guarding the remains of the temple of Amenhotep III. Return to the ship for lunch, then enjoy a peaceful afternoon sailing towards Esna, watching life along the river drift by.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Night aboard HM/S Nile Marquise
DAY 5: ESNA → EDFU → KOM OMBO
After breakfast on board, enjoy a tranquil morning sailing along the Nile towards Edfu. This stretch of the river offers a peaceful glimpse of rural Egypt, with palm-lined banks and daily life unfolding along the water. Upon arrival, visit the impressive Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus, the temple stands out for its monumental pylons, richly carved walls and remarkable state of conservation, offering a powerful insight into ancient religious life.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- 1 x visit to the Temple of Horus
- Night aboard HM/S Nile Marquise
DAY 6: KOM OMBO → ASWAN
After breakfast, disembark for a morning visit to Kom Ombo. Uniquely dedicated to two gods, Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder, this double temple features a perfectly symmetrical layout and beautifully carved reliefs overlooking the Nile. Return to the ship for lunch as you continue sailing towards Aswan. Upon arrival, visit the elegant Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis and spectacularly relocated to its current island setting to protect it from flooding. The temple’s refined columns and serene surroundings create a particularly evocative atmosphere.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- 1 x visit to Kom Ombo and Temple of Philae
- Night aboard HM/S Nile Marquise
DAY 7: ASWAN
After breakfast, enjoy a morning at leisure in Aswan, a city known for its relaxed pace, Nubian culture and striking river landscapes. You may choose to join an optional excursion to Abu Simbel (at additional cost), home to the monumental rock temples of Ramses II, carved directly into the cliffs. Lunch is served on board before heading out for a gentle felucca cruise on the Nile. Sail towards Kitchener Island to visit its lush Botanical Garden, a refreshing oasis filled with exotic plants and shaded pathways.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- 1 x felucca cruise on the Nile
- Night aboard HM/S Nile Marquise
DAY 8: ASWAN → ESNA
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day on board as the ship begins its return journey north along the Nile. This leisurely sailing day offers the perfect opportunity to relax on deck, admire the ever-changing landscapes along the riverbanks, or simply enjoy the calm rhythm of life on the Nile as you head back towards Esna.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Night aboard HM/S Nile Marquise
DAY 9: ESNA → LUXOR
Early in the morning, experience the impressive passage through the Esna Lock, where the ship slowly adjusts its level on the Nile. After breakfast on board, set out to visit the vast Karnak Temple, one of the largest religious complexes ever built. Dedicated to the god Amun, this monumental sanctuary was developed over more than 2,000 years by some of Egypt’s greatest pharaohs, including Seti I, Ramesses II and Thutmose III. Towering columns, sacred lakes and richly carved reliefs reveal the power and devotion of ancient Thebes.
Lunch is served on board before continuing with a visit to Luxor Temple, located in the heart of the ancient city. Built by Amenhotep III and Ramesses II, the temple was once linked to Karnak by a ceremonial avenue of sphinxes. One of its original obelisks now stands on Place de la Concorde in Paris.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- 1 x visit to Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple
- Night aboard HM/S Nile Marquise
DAY 10: LUXOR → CAIRO
After breakfast on board, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight from Luxor to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo, enjoy lunch before beginning your afternoon exploration of the city. Visit the impressive Citadel of Saladin, a 12th-century fortress dominating the skyline. Within its walls stands the elegant Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, built between 1830 and 1849 and offering panoramic views over the vast capital. Continue with a walk through the legendary Khan El Khalili souks, a lively labyrinth of narrow alleys filled with spices, jewellery, textiles and traditional crafts.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Domestic flight Luxor → Cairo
- Night at Le Passage Hotel & Casino 5* (or similar)
DAY 11: CAIRO
After breakfast at the hotel, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilisation. Located near the Giza Plateau, this spectacular museum showcases Egypt’s ancient heritage through an exceptional collection spanning over five millennia. Highlights include the full treasure of Tutankhamun, displayed together for the first time, alongside thousands of remarkable artefacts presented in a state-of-the-art setting. Lunch is included during the visit.
In the afternoon, explore Coptic Cairo, the historic Christian quarter where Saint Mark is believed to have introduced Christianity in the 1st century AD. Discover the Church of St Sergius, built above the cave where the Holy Family is said to have sought refuge, the Hanging Church (Saint Mary’s Church) with its remarkable icons, and the beautifully restored Ben Ezra Synagogue.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Night at Le Passage Hotel & Casino 5* (or similar)
DAY 12: CAIRO ⇄ ALEXANDRIA
After breakfast, depart early for Alexandria, located on the Mediterranean coast (approx. 440 km / 5.5 hours). Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria was once a major centre of knowledge and culture in the ancient world. Discover the fascinating Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a unique funerary complex blending Egyptian, Greek and Roman styles. Continue to the Roman Theatre, the only one of its kind in Egypt, followed by Pompey’s Pillar (Column of Diocletian) rising above the surrounding ruins. Visit the imposing Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria. Finally, admire the exterior of the modern Library of Alexandria, a contemporary tribute to the ancient world’s most famous centre of learning. Lunch is included during the visit before returning to Cairo in the evening.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner included
- Coach transfers Cairo ⇄ Alexandria
- Night at Le Passage Hotel & Casino 5* (or similar)
DAY 13: DEPART FROM CAIRO
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for the airport. Assistance is provided with check-in formalities before your return flight home.
Included:
- Breakfast included
- Depart from Cairo International Airport (CAI)
- Shared roundtrip airport transfers (with flight-inclusive bookings only)
Important information about your tour and visits: The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
To ensure your stay is as relaxing as possible, we've selected accommodation that is comfortable, authentic and ideally located.
Cairo: Le Passage Hotel & Casino 5* (or similar)
Cruise: HM/S Nile Marquise
The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category.
Maximum room capacity: 3 adults + 1 baby or 2 adults + 1 child Single rooms are available at an additional cost.
Your dining choices
This is a full board stay. Your breakfast, lunch and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks) from breakfast on Day 2 to breakfast on Day 13. During your trip to Egypt, be sure to try koshari (a mixture of rice, lentils, pasta and spicy tomato sauce); crispy and fragrant falafel made with broad beans; and molokheya (a herb soup served with rice or meat, much appreciated for its unique flavour).
Your journey to Egypt —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destinations —
Egypt
Egypt is a land where ancient history and timeless landscapes meet the Nile’s life-giving waters. From golden deserts to bustling cities, the air carries warmth, spice, and the distant whisper of millennia-old stories. The atmosphere is dramatic, captivating, and alive with contrasts of past and present.
Must-sees
- Pyramids of Giza: Stand before the world’s most famous pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx.
- Karnak Temple: Explore the vast complex of temples, obelisks, and sacred avenues in Luxor.
- Valley of the Kings: Wander among royal tombs carved into desert cliffs, home to pharaohs’ treasures.
- Abu Simbel: Marvel at the colossal temples set against the Nile in southern Egypt.
- Nile River Cruises: Glide past timeless landscapes aboard a traditional felucca or luxury cruiser.
Culinary culture
Egyptian cuisine blends simple ingredients with bold, aromatic flavours. Expect fresh bread, grilled meats, mezze, and dishes enriched with cumin, coriander, and citrus. Meals are often shared slowly, accompanied by tea or hibiscus-infused drinks, and enjoyed in bustling city cafés or quiet riverside settings.
Dive deeper
Explore local markets for spices, textiles, and handcrafted souvenirs, or wander the streets of Cairo and Alexandria for vibrant street life and historical sites. Desert safaris, camel rides, and hot-air balloon flights over Luxor add adventure and perspective to your journey.
Good to know
The currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Egypt is best explored by a combination of domestic flights, private transfers, and river cruises. The cooler months from October to April provide the most comfortable climate for sightseeing, while summers are hot and ideal for Nile cruises and Red Sea resorts.
