12 Day Egypt Tour Itinerary – Cairo, Nile Cruise & Bahariya Oasis (Private Guided)

  • Duration12 Days 11 Nights
  • Trip TypePrivate Tours
  • AvailabilityEveryday

Embark on a 12 Day Egypt Tour that combines ancient wonders, desert adventure, and luxury cruising along the Nile. This carefully curated itinerary begins in Cairo, where you’ll stand before the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, explore the treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum, and wander through the historic Khan El Khalili Bazaar.

From there, your journey continues with a 5-star Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor, sailing past timeless temples such as Philae, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings. Midway through the tour, venture off the beaten path with a 4×4 desert safari into the Bahariya Oasis, home to the stunning White Desert and Black Desert landscapes — a highlight that most Egypt Private Tours never include.

✅ Licensed Egyptologist Guide
⭐ 4.9/5 Traveler Reviews
🚤 Nile Cruise Included
🐪 Oasis Safari Experience
📍 Fully Customizable Itinerary

Secure your spot — private departures available year-round with Flexible payment plans.

Why You’ll Love This 12 Day Egypt Tour

This isn’t just a scheduled trip — it’s a deep dive into Egypt’s soul, with time to breathe in the desert air, sail slowly on the Nile, and stand before ancient temples without rushing. This journey balances culture, comfort, and authentic local encounters — all with a private guide who adapts the pace to you.
  • Crafted for Travelers Who Want Meaningful Discovery — Not a Checklist TripThis itinerary is built for curious travelers who crave depth, atmosphere, and connection. Instead of rushing from one landmark to the next, you’ll move at a thoughtful, relaxed pace, with time to absorb the energy of every stop — from Cairo’s dawn call to prayer rolling over the rooftops to the silence of the desert under the stars.
  • Experience Egypt in a Way Most Travelers Never DoYour private Egyptologist doesn’t follow a script — they read the moment. Want to wander deeper into a quiet temple chamber? Curious about a local market stall? Intrigued by a story carved into a limestone wall? You choose the rhythm. This is exploration, not herding.
  • The Kind of Moments That Set a Trip ApartPicture yourself watching the sun dip behind the dunes of Bahariya Oasis, the sky shifting from gold to violet as your guide prepares Bedouin tea over a small fire. On the Nile, you lean on the deck rail as ancient temples slide past, their silhouettes mirrored in the water — and everything feels still.
  • Comfort That Feels EffortlessLuxury here isn’t about formality — it’s about ease. Smooth airport assistance, private drivers waiting every step of the way, check-ins handled before you arrive, and accommodations chosen for atmosphere, service, and views — whether it’s a rooftop overlooking the Pyramids or a river suite with floor-to-ceiling glass.
  • Guided, But Never RestrictedEvery experience is led by a licensed Egyptologist with a storyteller’s soul, someone who knows when to explain, when to pause, and when to simply let you feel the space. You’ll hear legends, local idioms, ancient myths, and even lesser-known tales that don’t appear in guidebooks.
  • Flexible by Design — Because Travel Should BreatheWant an unscheduled evening to watch the Nile from the rooftop lounge? Prefer a sunrise start at Abu Simbel before the tour buses arrive? Adjustments are welcomed, not resisted, with a support team ready to shift things smoothly without hassle.

12 Day Egypt Itinerary – Cairo, Nile Cruise & Bahariya Oasis Experience

Here’s a day-by-day look at what your journey will feel like — flexible by design, privately guided, and crafted for meaningful exploration at a relaxed pace.

Day 1Arrival in Cairo

When you arrive in Cairo, our warm-hearted representative will be waiting to welcome you with a smile and help you glide through all the formalities. From there, you’ll be comfortably escorted to your hotel. Once checked in, rest, explore the hotel at your own pace, and meet with our tour manager to review the details of your upcoming adventure.

After settling in, enjoy a peaceful night’s rest as you prepare for the journey that begins tomorrow.

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Welcome Drink

Day 2Giza Pyramids, Saqqara & Memphis

Following breakfast at the hotel, your private Egyptology guide will meet you for a full day of exploration. You’ll start with a drive to the famous Giza Plateau, where you’ll walk amongst its ancient marvels. Afterward, your journey continues to the Valley Temple, adding layers to your experience.

Midday, you’ll pause for lunch at a local restaurant, savoring Egyptian cuisine. In the afternoon, you’ll travel to Saqqara to uncover more of Egypt’s deep history before heading to Memphis for the final visit of the day.

As the sun sets, you’ll return to your hotel in Cairo, where you can unwind and relax.

Optional Evening: Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 3Egyptian Museum, Citadel & Khan el-Khalili

After a refreshing breakfast, you’ll meet your private guide and head into the heart of Cairo. First, you’ll be escorted to the renowned Egyptian Museum, where the treasures of the pharaohs await. After a morning immersed in history, you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch at a local eatery.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue to the historic Saladin Citadel, then make your way to the enchanting Khan el-Khalili Bazaar for a stroll through its bustling alleys.

At the end of this fascinating day, you’ll return to your hotel for a restful evening.

Overnight Optional: 2-hour Nile Cruise dinner with a folk dance show.

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 4Fly to Luxor - Luxor East Bank Tour

After an early breakfast, you’ll transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, a representative will greet you and take you to your Nile cruise. After settling into your cabin, your Egyptologist guide will lead you on an afternoon tour to explore the magnificent temples of Luxor’s East Bank.

After a rewarding day, you’ll return to the cruise ship for lunch, dinner, and a peaceful night’s rest.

 Overnight on Cruise
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner

Day 5Luxor West Bank Tour

After breakfast on board, your guide will take you to Luxor’s West Bank for a day of exploration. You’ll visit some of the most significant sites of ancient Egypt, all while enjoying the breathtaking views along the way.

After a day full of discoveries, you’ll return to the cruise ship for lunch and relaxation, enjoying the sun and the scenery before dinner.

 Overnight on Cruise
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner

Day 6Edfu and Kom Ombo Tour

Your morning begins with breakfast on board as your cruise glides along the Nile. Your guide will accompany you to Edfu and Kom Ombo temples for a day filled with impressive sites and stories.

Return to the cruise for a leisurely afternoon, where you can enjoy the weather, take a dip in the pool, and soak in the atmosphere before dinner.

 Overnight on Cruise
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner

Day 7Abu Simbel Temples Tour

After an early breakfast, you’ll board a private vehicle for the journey to the iconic temples of Abu Simbel. Upon arrival, you’ll explore these monumental structures before heading back to your cruise.

After lunch, relax and enjoy the comforts of the cruise as you sail back along the Nile.

 Overnight on Cruise
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner

Day 8Aswan City Tour & Return to Cairo

After breakfast and check-out, your Aswan adventure begins. Your guide will take you to explore the landmarks of this southern city before your transfer to Aswan Airport for the flight back to Cairo.

On arrival in Cairo, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to settle in for the night.

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 9Open Day in Cairo

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, followed by a day of relaxation or exploration on your own. Should you wish to venture out, you may opt for an exciting day trip to Alexandria, complete with historical sites, lunch, and a return to Cairo in the evening.

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Breakfast

Day 10Tour to Bahariya Oasis from Cairo

Following breakfast, you’ll embark on a journey into the Western Desert. Your private guide will lead you through Bahariya Oasis, where you’ll explore remarkable landscapes and local treasures. Enjoy a relaxing lunch in the oasis before settling into your accommodation for the night.

 Overnight in Bahariya
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 11White Desert Tour & Return to Cairo

After breakfast, your adventure continues with a guided exploration of the White Desert. Along the way, you’ll visit scenic spots before returning to Cairo in the evening.

 Overnight in Cairo
 Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 12Final Departure

After a final breakfast at your hotel, you’ll check out and transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure. With memories of Egypt’s timeless wonders, you’ll bid farewell to this incredible land.

 Meals: Breakfast

Want to Customize This Itinerary?

Every traveler is different — let us adjust this 12 Day Egypt Tour to suit your pace, budget, or style.

What’s Included in Your 12 Day Egypt Journey

Curated for travelers who appreciate precision, comfort, and intelligent design, this journey includes a collection of services arranged with care — not as add-ons, but as an integral part of a seamless travel experience.
  • Arrival & Personal AssistancePrivate airport reception with fast-track assistance on arrival to manage your movements throughout the journey
  • Private TransportationDoor-to-door transfers between airports, hotels, and sites — no waiting, no shared transport
  • 5 Star Hotel AccommodationHand-selected luxury hotels in Cairo, chosen for viewpoint, ambiance, and service ethos
  • Deluxe Nile Cruise AccommodationNile cruise cabin on a refined vessel — spacious river-view suite with full-board dining
  • Domestic Flight ArrangementsCairo ⇆ Luxor and Aswan flights, ticketed in advance and managed by your coordinator.
  • Privately Guided ExplorationExpert Egyptologist at your disposal, offering scholarly insight delivered with storytelling grace
  • Authentic Culinary Experiences Local lunch at handpicked restaurants on major tour days.
  • Entrance Fees to All Main SitesIncluded as per your detailed itinerary.
  • Bottled water provided daily, discreetly stocked in your vehicle and refreshed throughout the dayProvided daily during tours.
  • Full Travel Support24/7 support team in Egypt, available for adjustments, personal requests, and last-minute arrangements
  • All Taxes & Service ChargesNo surprise costs.

What’s Not Included (But Easily Arranged)

We’re transparent about what’s not included — and happy to help you arrange these essentials.
  • 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 Tour Pricing & Accommodation Options

Each collection below has been designed with a distinct travel style in mind — from elegant comfort to ultra-luxury exclusivity. All options include private guiding, curated logistics, and a Nile cruise experience, with seamless care throughout your journey.

Affordable Package (4 Stars)

Accommodation & Price
  • Hotels: Jaz Pyramids Resort – Barceló Cairo Pyramids – Swiss In Golf or Similar
  • Cruises: Radamis – Princess Sarah – Royal Princess or Similar
  October – April
Double Room $2055
Single Room $3400

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

Golden Package (5 Stars)

Accommodation & Price
  • Hotels: Steigenberger – Hilton Dream – Helnan Dream or Similar
  • Cruises: Blue Shadow – Paradise – Nile Premium or Similar
  October – April
Double Room $2500
Single Room $4100

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

Platinum Package (Ultra Deluxe)

Accommodation & Price
  • Hotels: Hyatt Regency – Sofitel El Gezirah – Kempinski Nile or Similar
  • Cruises: Acamar – Movenpick Lily or Lotus – Serenity – or Similar
  October – April
Double Room $4950
Single Room $8850

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

Pricing, Tipping & Cancellation Policy

Your journey is planned with clarity from the beginning — no hidden charges, no unexpected adjustments once you are on the ground. Everything included in your itinerary will be confirmed before booking, with a dedicated travel consultant available for any adjustment or personalization.

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 Tour

Preparation is part of the journey. Whether this is your first encounter with Egypt or a return to dive deeper into its heritage, the following insights have been curated to help you travel with confidence, respect, and ease. Consider this your private briefing — the kind our travel specialists give before departure.

Best Time to Travel — When Egypt Feels Most Captivating

Egypt is welcoming year-round, though October to April offers the most comfortable climate for extended exploration, especially in southern regions such as Luxor and Aswan.

Travel Window Atmosphere & Travel Style
October – April Ideal for cultural touring, Nile cruising, and photography. Mornings are crisp, afternoons pleasantly warm — perfect for temple visits and desert landscapes.
May – September Hot and dry — suitable for travelers comfortable with heat or prioritizing quieter sites. Early starts and shaded rest breaks are recommended.

💡 Travel Insight: The shoulder weeks in late September and early May often provide warm weather, fewer visitors, and more favorable rates — a sweet spot for those seeking balance.

What to Pack — Elegant, Respectful & Comfortable

Egypt rewards lightweight, breathable clothing with modest silhouettes, especially in traditional areas and religious landmarks.

Clothing & Essentials

  • Choose loose linen or cotton layers for breathability and modesty
  • A light scarf or shawl is useful for both sun and cultural sites
  • Neutral-toned swimwear is appropriate for hotel or cruise pools
  • Evening temperatures in the desert can drop — a light jacket or wrap is recommended

Footwear

  • Structured walking shoes for archaeological sites (uneven stone and sand underfoot)
  • Sandals or slides for relaxed moments on deck or at the hotel
  • Water shoes are useful for optional Red Sea or Nile swimming experiences

Day Kit Essentials

  • Wide-brimmed sun hat or headscarf
  • High-protection SPF (50+) and lip balm
  • Personal hand sanitizer and tissues
  • Reusable water bottle or hydration flask
  • Compact daypack for camera, sun cover, documents

🎒 Concierge Note: A universal adapter and power bank are useful. Keep photocopies of passport and insurance in a separate pouch.

Cultural Etiquette — Engaging Egypt with Grace

Egyptians are known for hospitality and genuine warmth. A few gestures of cultural awareness go a long way and are always remembered.

Dress & Presentation

  • Shoulders and knees covered at mosques and in rural towns
  • Tight clothing and sleeveless tops are best reserved for hotels or cruise decks
  • Men generally avoid going shirtless outside beach settings

Local Interaction

  • A simple “Salam Alaikum” is a respectful greeting
  • Offering or receiving items with the right hand is polite custom
  • Public displays of affection are uncommon and best kept discreet

Photography Etiquette

  • Always ask before photographing people, particularly women and families
  • Some sites require a separate photography ticket — your guide will advise discreetly
  • Avoid military zones, security staff, or restricted signage

Currency & Payments — Managing Money Smoothly

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Major hotels, cruises, and established restaurants accept credit cards, though cash remains preferred for small exchanges and gratuities.

Smart Money Guidelines

  • Exchange a small amount of USD/EUR to EGP upon arrival or through your concierge
  • Keep low denominations for drivers, porters, and daily tipping
  • ATMs are widely available near hotels and commercial areas
  • Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted — American Express less so
  • Avoid informal exchange; your tour manager can assist with fair-rate exchanges

💳 Travel Tip: Notify your bank of travel dates in advance to ensure uninterrupted card use.

Health, Safety & Local Awareness

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in guided or private tours. Here’s how to stay healthy and comfortable:

Health Tips:

  • Water: Always drink bottled or sealed water. Avoid tap water even in hotels.
  • Food: Choose restaurants with good hygiene standards. We’ll guide you to the best spots.
  • Street Food: Stick to hot, freshly cooked items (e.g., falafel, koshari). Avoid raw salads or ice from unknown sources.
  • Medications: Bring your own — pharmacies exist but may not stock familiar brands.

Personal Safety:

  • Keep valuables secure and use hotel safes when available.
  • Avoid political discussions and large public demonstrations.
  • Be polite but firm when declining street vendors — “La, shukran” (No, thank you) works well.

Transportation Safety:

  • Use private cars, Uber, or taxis arranged by your hotel or guide.
  • Avoid unlicensed taxis or touts offering rides in tourist hotspots.
  • Public buses and microbuses are not recommended for travelers on a schedule.

🚨 Emergency tip: Save your tour manager’s number and the local emergency hotline (122 for police, 123 for medical help).

FAQs Sbout 12 Days Egypt Tour

Is 12 days enough to experience Egypt properly?

Yes — 12 days is an ideal duration to explore Egypt at a refined, unhurried pace. It allows you to see Cairo, sail the Nile, explore Luxor and Aswan, and venture into the Western Desert or Oasis regions without feeling rushed. With a private guide adjusting the pace each day, you gain depth of experience rather than just collecting landmarks.

What’s included in a 12 day Egypt tour package?

Your journey includes hand-selected hotel stays, a Nile cruise, private guiding, all domestic flights, curated excursions, ground transfers, entrance fees to major sites, and full on-the-ground support. Unlike standard tour packages, your schedule is privately operated, ensuring flexibility and elevated service throughout.

Only international airfare, personal extras, and visa fees are not included — everything else is discreetly arranged on your behalf.

Is Egypt safe for private travel and small-group touring?

Yes — Egypt’s main tourist regions are well secured, and private touring with a licensed Egyptologist ensures a controlled, well-coordinated travel experience. Airports, hotels, archaeological sites, and cruise terminals operate under strict tourism security oversight.

Private guided travel adds a further layer of reassurance, with local experts handling logistics, navigation, and cultural etiquette on your behalf.

Can I customize parts of this 12 day Egypt itinerary?

Absolutely. Every itinerary can be refined based on travel style, pace preferences, hotel category, or special interests — whether you want more time at the pyramids, a photography-focused desert extension, or a spa day on the Nile. Your travel designer makes adjustments elegantly, without disrupting the flow of the journey.

When is the best time to take a 12 day Egypt tour and Nile cruise?

The most comfortable travel window is October through April, when temperatures are pleasant for temple visits and desert landscapes. This period aligns perfectly with Nile cruising season and optimal light conditions for photography.

For fewer crowds and slightly warmer weather, the shoulder weeks of late September and early May are considered an excellent insider choice.

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?

Choosing the right partner in Egypt makes all the difference. We operate with a boutique philosophy — limited departures, personal relationships with local experts, and a commitment to discretion, flexibility, and detail.
  • 📍 Locally Based — With Global Travel StandardsOur team is based in Egypt, with first-hand insight into every hotel, cruise vessel, and desert route we recommend — yet we uphold international-level service standards and logistical precision comparable to elite global operators.
  • 🎓 Private Egyptologists — Not Just Tour GuidesYou travel with a licensed Egyptologist, not a standard guide — a skilled storyteller and cultural interpreter, able to tailor insight, pace, and depth according to your curiosity.
  • ⚙️ Tailor-Made Touring — Designed Around YouThere is no rigid schedule. If you'd like sunrise access to avoid crowds, or extra time at a site that speaks to you, your private guide adjusts in real time — quietly and seamlessly.
  • 🗺️ Trusted Access & Intelligent RoutingFrom exclusive photography vantage points to timed site entries avoiding peak tour buses, your route is crafted with insider awareness, not standard tourist circuits.
  • 🤝 Dedicated Travel Concierge – Before & During Your JourneyFrom the moment you confirm, a single travel designer oversees your arrangements. Once in Egypt, concierge-level support continues 24/7 for refinements, additions, or last-minute wishes.

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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12 Reviews
Sort By:RatingDate

Thomas Müller

Solo Traveller

I appreciated the balance between iconic sites and lesser-known locations. The visit to a smaller, almost-empty temple outside Luxor was one of the most memorable moments. It’s clear this itinerary is designed by people who know Egypt personally, not by a commercial operator following a template.

August 15, 2025

Priya Desai

Family Traveller

Traveling with teenagers can be challenging, but our guide made history engaging and interactive. The flexible pacing allowed us to enjoy the cruise without feeling like we were on a strict schedule. The desert extension to Bahariya was a highlight for our family — peaceful, unexpected, and beautifully organized.

August 10, 2025

Amelia Sørensen

Couple Traveller

What impressed us most was the quiet efficiency — every transfer, flight connection, and check-in happened without a single delay or question on our side. The hotels were well-chosen, each with a sense of place rather than generic luxury. Our guide adjusted each day based on our energy, which made the experience feel truly personal.

June 25, 2025

Luca Romano

Solo Traveller

As a photographer, timing and access matter. The team arranged sunrise access at key sites and knew exactly where to position for perfect light without the usual crowds. I’ve been on many photography-focused trips, but few have matched this level of coordination and respect for creative pacing.

May 15, 2025

Keiko Tanaka

Solo Traveller

As someone passionate about ancient civilizations, I appreciated the scholarly quality of the guiding. My Egyptologist was patient, precise, and incredibly knowledgeable. The itinerary allowed quiet moments for reflection, especially at the less crowded tombs — a detail I greatly valued. This was more than sightseeing; it felt like a personal cultural immersion.

May 3, 2025
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