12 Day Egypt Itinerary – Cairo & Nile Cruise with Hurghada

  • Duration12 Days 11 Nights
  • Trip TypePrivate Tours
  • AvailabilityEveryday

This 12 Day Egypt Itinerary is a carefully balanced journey designed for travelers who want to experience Egypt’s most iconic sights without rushing, while also enjoying time to relax by the Red Sea. Ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and families, the tour blends ancient history, cultural immersion, and coastal leisure into one seamless experience.

Your journey begins in Cairo, where you’ll explore the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and world-class museums alongside a private licensed Egyptologist. You’ll then cruise the timeless Nile River Cruise between Luxor and Aswan, discovering Egypt’s most celebrated temples at a relaxed, comfortable pace. The tour concludes in Hurghada, offering the perfect contrast with beach time, Red Sea activities, and well-earned rest.

This is a 100% private Egypt tour, fully customizable to your pace, interests, and accommodation level — with every detail handled by our local Egypt-based travel team.

Why Travelers Love This 12 Day Egypt Itinerary

Created for travelers who seek more than an ordinary vacation.
  • A True Private Journey — Not a Group TourThis itinerary is designed as a 100% private experience, meaning you will never be combined with other travelers. From airport transfers to sightseeing and Nile cruise excursions, everything is arranged exclusively for you, with your own private vehicle and a licensed Egyptologist dedicated to your journey.
  • Created Specifically for First-Time Visitors to EgyptIf this is your first time in Egypt, this itinerary removes the guesswork. It focuses on the country’s most important highlights while maintaining a comfortable pace, allowing you to absorb the history, culture, and atmosphere without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
  • A Thoughtful Balance of Exploration and RelaxationMany Egypt tours focus heavily on sightseeing. This one goes further by pairing guided cultural experiences with meaningful downtime. After exploring temples and tombs, you’ll enjoy several nights in Hurghada, where you can relax by the Red Sea or enjoy optional water activities.
  • Experience Egypt from the Timeless Perspective of the NileTraveling by Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan offers one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to see Egypt. You’ll wake up to river views, visit iconic temples along the way, and enjoy full-board service while floating through landscapes that have remained unchanged for thousands of years.
  • Flexible and Fully Customizable Before You BookEvery traveler is different. Before confirming your tour, you can customize hotel categories, upgrade your Nile cruise, add experiences such as Abu Simbel, or adjust the pacing to match your preferences — all without extra planning fees.
  • Local Expertise with 24/7 On-Ground SupportThis tour is operated by an experienced, Egypt-based travel team who understand the destination deeply. You’ll have local support available throughout your journey, offering peace of mind, fast assistance, and insider knowledge that international operators simply can’t match.

Day-by-day Itinerary

12 Day Egypt Tour Itinerary: Cairo & Nile Cruise with Hurghada

Day 1Arrival in Cairo

Welcome to Egypt! Upon landing at Cairo Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative, who will assist with the formalities and take you to your hotel for some rest after your flight. Spend the evening relaxing and familiarizing yourself with your itinerary.

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Welcome Drink

Day 2Giza Pyramids, Saqqara & Memphis

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided tour to visit the Giza Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and the Valley Temple of Khafra. After a lunch break, you’ll continue to Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid, and then to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt.

Optional Evening: Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 3Egyptian Museum, Cairo Citadel & Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

Following breakfast, your tour includes the Egyptian Museum, where you’ll see ancient artifacts. You’ll then visit the Saladin Citadel and the Mohamed Ali Mosque. After lunch, you’ll stroll through Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, the oldest market in Cairo.

Overnight Optional: 1-hour Nile Felucca ride or Cairo Tower Tour.

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 4Fly to Aswan & Aswan City Tour

After breakfast, you’ll fly to Aswan, where you’ll board your Nile cruise. The day includes visits to the Aswan High Dam, Philae Temple, and the Unfinished Obelisk.

 Overnight on Cruise
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner

Day 5Tour to Kom Ombo Temple

Today, after breakfast, you’ll visit Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris. Enjoy the rest of the day on board, with lunch, dinner, and free time as you sail to Luxor.

 Overnight on Cruise
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner

Day 6Edfu Temple & Luxor West Bank Tour

After breakfast, you’ll explore Edfu Temple, dedicated to Horus, and then sail to Luxor to visit the West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon

 Overnight on Cruise
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner

Day 7Luxor East Bank & Transfer to Hurghada

After checking out, you’ll visit Karnak and Luxor Temples before heading to Hurghada by private vehicle. Once you arrive, you’ll check into your hotel and relax.

 Overnight in Hurghada
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 8Open Day in Hurghada

Enjoy a free day in Hurghada, with optional activities such as a Bedouin Village Desert Safari.

 Overnight in Hurghada
 Meals: Breakfast

Day 9Open Day in Hurghada

Enjoy a free day in Hurghada.

 Overnight in Hurghada
 Meals: Breakfast

Day 10Open Day in Hurghada & Return to Cairo

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed day in Hurghada. In the evening, you’ll return to Cairo for an overnight stay.

 Overnight in Hurghada
 Meals: Breakfast

Day 11Discovering Old Cairo

Today, we explored the vibrant district of Old Cairo, visiting the Fortress of Babylon, the Church of St. Barbara, and the Hanging Church. We also delved into Coptic history at the Coptic Museum.

After a delicious lunch, we ventured into Islamic Cairo, admiring the Sultan Hassan Mosque and Al-Rifai Mosque. We concluded the day with a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile River.

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 12Final Departure

Enjoy your final breakfast in Egypt before heading to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight, taking with you wonderful memories of your trip.

 Meals: Breakfast

Want to Customize This Itinerary?

Designed around you — this 12 Day Egypt Tour can be fully customized to suit your pace and preferences.

What’s Included in Your 12 Day Egypt Itinerary

Travel with confidence on an all-inclusive journey designed to let you enjoy the experience while we handle every detail.
  • Meet & Assist at Arrival and DeparturePersonal airport assistance upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience from the very beginning.
  • Private Airport & Ground TransfersAll transfers in modern, air-conditioned private vehicles with professional drivers throughout your journey.
  • Carefully Selected Hotel AccommodationsHigh-quality hotels in Cairo and Hurghada, including daily breakfast, with upgrade options available upon request.
  • Deluxe Nile Cruise ExperienceA multi-night Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan with full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) included.
  • Domestic Flights Within EgyptAll internal flights required by the itinerary (Cairo to Aswan), saving time and maximizing comfort.
  • Private Licensed Egyptologist GuideYour own professional guide for all sightseeing tours, providing personalized explanations and historical insight.
  • Authentic Local LunchesSelected lunches during guided tour days to experience local Egyptian cuisine.
  • All Sightseeing & Entrance FeesEntrance tickets to all major sites listed in the itinerary — no surprise payments at attractions.
  • Complimentary Bottled Water During ToursProvided daily while sightseeing to keep you comfortable and hydrated.
  • Full Travel SupportOur local team is on-call 24/7 to ensure a seamless experience.
  • All Taxes & Service ChargesNo hidden fees — all applicable taxes are already included in the tour price.

What’s Not Included (But Easily Arranged)

Complete transparency on exclusions, with expert assistance available every step of the way.
  • Egypt Entry VisaApprox. $25 USD on arrival – we can assist you
  • Optional ToursE.g., extra tombs visits, hot air balloon Ride in Luxor, Abu Simbel flight, etc.
  • Tipping (Gratuities)Industry standard; we’ll provide guidance

12 Day Egypt Itinerary Prices & Accommodation Packages

Select from three carefully designed packages for your 12 Day Egypt journey, featuring private guides, high-end service, and a luxury Nile cruise.

Affordable Package (4 Stars)

Accommodation & Price
  • Cairo Hotels: Jaz Pyramids Resort – Barceló Cairo Pyramids – Swiss In Golf or Similar
  • Hurghada Hotels: Mercure Hurghada or Similar
  • Cruises: Radamis – Princess Sarah – Royal Princess or Similar
  October – April
Double Room $2000
Single Room $3220

Prices are per person & Not valid during the Christmas and New Year Holidays.

Golden Package (5 Stars)

Accommodation & Price
  • Cairo Hotels: Steigenberger – Hilton Dream – Helnan Dream or Similar
  • Hurghada Hotels: Continental – Swiss Inn or similar.
  • Cruises: Blue Shadow – Paradise – Nile Premium or Similar
  October – April
Double Room $2300
Single Room $3800

Prices are per person & Not valid during the Christmas and New Year Holidays.

Platinum Package (Ultra Deluxe)

Accommodation & Price
  • Cairo Hotels: Hyatt Regency – Sofitel El Gezirah – Kempinski Nile or Similar
  • Hurghada Hotels: Kai Sol Romance Resort – Pickalbatros Palace Hurghada or Similar
  • Cruises: Acamar – Movenpick Lily or Lotus – Serenity – or Similar
  October – April
Double Room $4500
Single Room $7700

Prices are per person & Not valid during the Christmas and New Year Holidays.

Pricing, Tipping & Cancellation Policy

Clear, honest, and designed to give you peace of mind when booking your 10 Day Egypt Itinerary.

Flexible Payment & Transparent Pricing

  • Tour Prices: Quoted in USD per person. Payment accepted in any major currency.
  • Inclusions: All packages include accommodations, domestic flights, guided tours, Nile cruise, entrance fees (as per itinerary), and local support.
  • Validity: Prices apply from October to April and exclude Christmas & New Year peak periods.
  • Price Adjustments: Subject to change due to airline tax increases, hotel rate changes, or local government fees.
  • Not Included: International flights, travel insurance, and Egypt entry visa (~$25 on arrival).

💡 Tip: Ask us for price-lock options or to reserve your package at current rates.

🤝 Easy Booking Terms

  • Only 30% Down to Confirm: Reserve your space with a small deposit covering hotels, Nile cruise cabins, and domestic flights.
  • Flexible Balance Payment: Pay the rest up to 48 hours before arrival, or settle on arrival in cash with your tour manager.

✅ No hidden fees. No surprise charges.

Tipping in Egypt – What to Expect

Tipping is not included in your package — but it’s an important part of Egyptian hospitality. While not mandatory, it is appreciated by drivers, guides, cruise staff, and service workers.

Suggested Guidelines:

  • Guide: $10–15 per day per traveler
  • Driver: $3–5 per day
  • Cruise Crew (shared tip box): ~$5–10/day

We’ll provide a detailed tipping guide in your welcome packet to make it stress-free.

Optional Extras & Additional Costs

Not included but available on request:

  • Entry to special sites: Inside the Great Pyramid, Tomb of Tutankhamun, Mummies Room at Egyptian Museum.
  • Optional upgrades: Hot air balloon ride, Nubian village visit, sound & light shows, spa treatments.
  • Alcoholic beverages, personal snacks, souvenirs.
  • Extra accommodation due to unforeseen weather or flight delays (rare, but not covered).

💡 Ask your tour manager to help arrange optional experiences locally.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

We understand plans change. Here’s our straightforward cancellation structure:

Notice Period Before Tour Refundable Amount
≥ 30 days 90% refund (10% fee)
20–29 days 75% refund
15–19 days 50% refund
11–14 days 25% refund
≤ 10 days Non-refundable

💡 Need to cancel due to emergencies? We’re happy to provide documentation for your travel insurance claim.

👶 Children Policy

  • 0–2 years: FREE
  • 2–5 years: 25% of adult price
  • 6–11 years: 50% of adult price
  • 12+ years: Full adult price

Note: Children rates apply when sharing a room with parents (max 1 child per room). Additional charges may apply for child airfare.

Cultural Insights & Travel Tips for Your 12 Day Egypt Itinerary

Traveling through Egypt is not just about monuments and temples — it’s about people, traditions, rhythms of daily life, and cultural moments you’ll remember long after the trip ends. The tips below are designed to help you feel comfortable, respectful, and fully prepared for your journey.

👕✨ Dress Code & Cultural Awareness

Egypt is a welcoming country with deep-rooted traditions. While tourists are not expected to dress like locals, modest and practical clothing is highly recommended during sightseeing days — especially in mosques, churches, and traditional neighborhoods.

✔️ Lightweight clothes that cover shoulders and knees are ideal
✔️ Comfortable walking shoes are essential for temple visits
✔️ Swimwear is perfectly acceptable at resorts and beaches in Hurghada

Dressing respectfully not only shows cultural awareness but also helps you feel more at ease while exploring local areas.

🍽️😋 Food, Dining & Egyptian Cuisine

Egyptian food is hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly diverse. During your tour, you’ll enjoy carefully selected restaurants known for cleanliness and quality, especially on guided sightseeing days.

🥙 Popular local dishes include koshari, grilled meats, fresh salads, and warm flatbreads
🥗 Vegetarian options are widely available
💧 Bottled water is always provided during tours

Your guide is happy to recommend safe local spots if you want to try something new — or stick with familiar options if you prefer.

💬🗣️ Language & Daily Communication

Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in hotels, tourist sites, and major cities. That said, learning a few simple Arabic words (like hello or thank you) is always appreciated and often rewarded with a smile 😊.

🧑‍🏫 Your private guide handles:

  • All explanations and historical context
  • Communication with drivers and staff
  • Assistance at shops, restaurants, and attractions

You’re never left navigating things on your own.

🕌✝️ Religion, Customs & Social Etiquette

Egypt is home to both Muslim and Christian communities, and religion plays an important role in daily life. Visitors are always welcome at religious sites, provided basic etiquette is followed.

🙏 Shoes may need to be removed in mosques
📸 Photography can be restricted in certain religious areas
🤝 Friendly greetings and polite behavior are highly valued

Your guide will always explain what’s appropriate, so you can relax and enjoy each visit with confidence.

💵🤝 Money, Tipping & Bargaining Culture

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound, and small cash amounts are useful for tips and markets.

💰 Tipping is customary but never obligatory
🛍️ Bargaining in souks and bazaars is normal and often fun
😊 A friendly attitude goes a long way — it’s part of the experience

Clear tipping guidance is provided before and during the tour, so you’ll never feel awkward or unsure.

☀️🎒 Weather, Packing & Practical Comfort

Egypt enjoys sunshine most of the year, making it a fantastic destination in all seasons.

🧢 Essentials to pack:

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
  • Comfortable shoes for sightseeing
  • Light layers for evenings, especially along the Nile River

Staying comfortable helps you enjoy long sightseeing days without fatigue.

🛡️🧭 Safety, Travel Confidence & Peace of Mind

Egypt is one of the most visited destinations in the world, with a long-standing tourism infrastructure. Traveling on a private guided tour adds an extra layer of comfort and security.

🚗 Private transportation throughout
🧑‍🏫 Licensed Egyptologist guides
📞 Local support available 24/7

This structure allows you to focus fully on the experience — not the logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions – 12 Day Egypt Itinerary

Is this a private tour or will I be traveling with a group?

This is a 100% private Egypt tour. You will not be joined by other travelers at any point. All transfers, sightseeing, and Nile cruise excursions are arranged exclusively for you and your party, with your own licensed Egyptologist guide and private vehicle throughout the journey.

Can I customize the 12 day Egypt itinerary before booking?

Absolutely ✅

This itinerary is fully customizable. Before confirmation, you can adjust hotel categories, Nile cruise level, sightseeing pace, optional excursions (such as Abu Simbel), and even travel dates — all at no extra planning cost.

Are domestic flights within Egypt included in the tour price?

Yes 👍

All required domestic flights within Egypt are included in the tour price. This typically covers routes such as Cairo–Luxor or Aswan–Hurghada, ensuring smooth and time-efficient travel between destinations.

What type of hotels and Nile cruise are included?

You can choose from carefully selected 4★, 5★, or deluxe luxury accommodations, depending on your preference and budget. The Nile cruise is also selected for comfort, safety, and service quality, with upgrade options available upon request.

Is Egypt safe to visit for first-time travelers?

Yes. Egypt is a well-established travel destination with strong tourism infrastructure. Traveling on a private guided tour with licensed guides and private transportation adds an extra level of comfort, safety, and peace of mind — especially for first-time visitors.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?

Yes 😊

This itinerary is ideal for families, couples, and mature travelers. The pacing is comfortable, accommodations are handpicked, and private guiding allows flexibility to adjust daily schedules when needed.

How does tipping work during the tour?

Tipping in Egypt is customary but never mandatory. We provide clear guidance on suggested amounts for guides, drivers, and cruise staff, so you’ll always feel comfortable and informed.

What kind of support will I have during the trip?

You’ll have 24/7 local on-ground support from our Egypt-based team, in addition to your private guide and drivers. Assistance is always just a phone call or message away.

How do I book and secure my tour?

Booking is simple and transparent. A small deposit secures your reservation, with final payment due before arrival. All payment terms, inclusions, and cancellation policies are clearly explained before any payment is made.

Still have a question not covered here?

We’re happy to help — no bots, just real local experts.

Why Book Your Egypt Tour With Us?

A journey through Egypt calls for more than a standard package. It calls for local experts who understand Cairo beyond the guidebooks, the Nile beyond the postcards, and the culture behind every souk.
  • 🌍 We Are Local — Egypt Is Our HomeWe are Egypt-based travel specialists, not a distant booking platform or call center. This means real local knowledge, faster support, and itineraries built from firsthand experience — not templates. 🧠 We know the sites, the timing, the people, and the details that make a trip smoother.
  • 🧑‍🏫 Licensed Egyptologist Guides — Not Just Tour LeadersYour experience is shaped by your guide. That’s why we work exclusively with licensed, professional Egyptologists who are passionate storytellers — not just escorts. 📚 Deep historical knowledge 🗣️ Clear, engaging explanations 🤝 Personalized attention every day
  • 🔐 100% Private Tours — AlwaysWe specialize in fully private Egypt tours. You will never be grouped with strangers or rushed to match someone else’s schedule. 🚗 Private vehicles 🧭 Flexible daily pacing 🕰️ No forced shopping stops. Your trip runs on your time.
  • ✨ Carefully Designed, Not Mass-ProducedEvery itinerary is thoughtfully planned for comfort, balance, and enjoyment. We focus on: Logical routing (less driving, more enjoying) Comfortable hotel locations Smooth transitions between destinations 🎯 This is travel done right — not rushed.
  • 24/7 On-Ground Support & Peace of MindFrom arrival to departure, you’re never alone. 📱 24/7 local support 🛬 Airport meet & assist 🧩 Immediate help if plans change This level of care is something large international platforms simply can’t offer.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what’s included – pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure, and more.

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21 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Lisa Bennett

Family Traveller

This journey gave us memories we’ll cherish forever. The history, the people, the scenery — everything came together beautifully. The team’s attention to detail and local knowledge truly elevated the experience.

June 2, 2025

Jonathan Price

Solo Traveller

From start to finish, the experience felt personal and well thought out. The private tour setup made all the difference, especially during busy sites. I would highly recommend this itinerary to anyone visiting Egypt for the first time.

May 10, 2025

Amanda Lee

Group Traveller

This was a beautifully paced itinerary that allowed us to truly enjoy Egypt instead of rushing through it. The guide’s explanations added so much depth to each site. Hurghada was the perfect place to recharge.

April 3, 2025

Brian Mitchell

Couple Traveller

We were looking for a premium, private experience, and this tour delivered. From airport pickup to the final transfer, everything ran smoothly. Egypt is incredible, and this itinerary showcased it perfectly.

March 12, 2025

Megan Foster

Solo Traveller

I appreciated how transparent and responsive the team was before and during the trip. Everything matched what was promised. The Nile cruise was serene, and the cultural experiences felt authentic, not touristy.

February 7, 2025
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