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

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

12 Days 100% private Departs any day
★★★★★ 60+ reviews across Google & TripAdvisor · operated by Egypt Planners
+5 photos

Why you’ll love this journey

Experience Egypt in comfort on a tailor-made 12 Day Egypt Tour with a luxury Nile cruise, a desert oasis safari, and a private licensed local guide.

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 Local Guide
🚤 Nile Cruise Included
🐪 Oasis Safari Experience
📍 Fully Customizable Itinerary

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

Licensed local guides

Egypt-born, Ministry-licensed — not tour leaders passing through.

100% private

Your group only — your pace, your interests.

Free tailored planning

A day-by-day plan within 24 hours, revised until right.

Day-by-day itinerary

Day-by-day plan — 100% private, fully tailored, revised until right.

YOUR ROUTE · 12 DAYS · 6 STOPS

CairoLuxorAbu SimbelAswanAlexandriaBahariya Oasis
DAY1
Day 1

Arrival 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

DAY2
Day 2

Giza Pyramids, Saqqara & Memphis

Following breakfast at the hotel, your private licensed local 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

DAY3
Day 3

Egyptian 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

DAY4
Day 4

Fly 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 licensed local 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

DAY5
Day 5

Luxor 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

DAY6
Day 6

Edfu 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

DAY7
Day 7

Abu 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

DAY8
Day 8

Aswan 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

DAY9
Day 9

Open 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

DAY10
Day 10

Tour 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

DAY11
Day 11

White 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

DAY12
Day 12

Final 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

What’s included

Everything below is arranged, paid and covered by your quote. What sits outside is what you'd normally handle yourself.

Always included

  • Arrival & Personal Assistance
  • Private Transportation
  • 5 Star Hotel Accommodation
  • Deluxe Nile Cruise Accommodation
  • Domestic Flight Arrangements
  • Privately Guided Exploration
  • Authentic Culinary Experiences
  • Entrance Fees to All Main Sites
  • Bottled water provided daily, discreetly stocked in your vehicle and refreshed throughout the day
  • Full Travel Support
  • All Taxes & Service Charges

Arranged separately

  • Egypt Entry Visa
  • Optional Tours
  • Tipping (Gratuities)

Traveler reviews

60+ verified reviews across Google & TripAdvisor for tours operated by Egypt Planners.

★★★★★

"A fabulous vacation, mostly thanks to Maro’s planning. Our 8-day private tour covered the Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum and a Nile cruise. Our Cairo guide Maii was knowledgeable and friendly, and our cruise guide Abdo took great care of us throughout."

KC
klccc
8-day private tour · Nov 2025 · via TripAdvisor
★★★★★

"Nothing short of exceptional. Every question was answered promptly and the whole custom trip was planned with impressive attention to detail. As a mom travelling with my two daughters, we felt completely safe, respected and well cared for at all times."

LM
Leeza M.
Family trip · Feb 2026 · via TripAdvisor
★★★★★

"From tailoring the itinerary to being dropped at the airport, everything went amazingly thanks to Maro and his team. Our Cairo guide Maii was fantastic, and Amir shared his knowledge beautifully from Luxor to Aswan. An unforgettable experience."

CL
Carla L.
Couple · Jan 2026 · via TripAdvisor
★★★★★

"We did a family private tour — Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and Hurghada — and strongly recommend Maro and his team. Communication was excellent at any time and the package very competitive. We kept to the itinerary with all inclusions and no extra charge."

DA
Damien
Family trip · Dec 2025 · via TripAdvisor
★★★★★

"A French family with two young children. Maro designed a trip exactly as we had imagined — extremely available and responsive throughout. The guides took our young kids into account and showed us incredible places off the beaten track."

CC
Capucine C.
Family · Christmas · via TripAdvisor
★★★★★

"A great trip to remember a lifetime! We travelled as a three-generation group of seven with many special requests, and they replanned several times until the itinerary met our ideas in detail. A very competent, friendly guide throughout."

CH
Chris L.
3-generation family · Mar 2026 · via TripAdvisor

Choose your package

Choose your comfort level — every package is 100% private with transport, a licensed local guide and the hotels below. Per person sharing a double room, October–April (Christmas & New Year peak pricing on request).

Standard season · October – April
$2,055/pp · double$3,400single

You’ll stay at one hotel in each destination (and one cruise where shown) — the exact property is confirmed on booking, based on availability.

Hotels
  • Jaz Pyramids Resort
  • Barceló Cairo Pyramids
  • Swiss In Golf
  • or similar class
Nile cruise
  • Radamis
  • Princess Sarah
  • Royal Princess
  • or similar class
Standard season · October – April
$2,500/pp · double$4,100single

You’ll stay at one hotel in each destination (and one cruise where shown) — the exact property is confirmed on booking, based on availability.

Hotels
  • Steigenberger
  • Hilton Dream
  • Helnan Dream
  • or similar class
Nile cruise
  • Blue Shadow
  • Paradise
  • Nile Premium
  • or similar class
Standard season · October – April
$4,950/pp · double$8,850single

You’ll stay at one hotel in each destination (and one cruise where shown) — the exact property is confirmed on booking, based on availability.

Hotels
  • Hyatt Regency
  • Sofitel El Gezirah
  • Kempinski Nile
  • or similar class
Nile cruise
  • Acamar
  • Movenpick Lily or Lotus
  • Serenity -
  • or similar class

Prices are per person for October–April, standard season. Christmas & New Year peak-season pricing available on request — ask on WhatsApp or use the form.

Why book with Egypt Tours by Locals

Licensed local guides

Egypt-born, Ministry-licensed guides — not tour leaders passing through.

100% private

Your group only — your pace, your interests.

All transfers & domestic flights

Every airport, hotel and internal flight handled end to end.

Hand-picked hotels

Comfortable, well-located hotels chosen for each city.

24/7 Cairo support

A real local team reachable by phone and WhatsApp all trip.

Tailor-made

Adjusted to your dates, budget and must-sees — revised until right.

Booking & policy

Payment

  • 30% deposit confirms dates
  • Balance due 60 days before departure
  • Any major currency
  • Itemised quote — no hidden fees

Cancellation

  • ≥45 days: full refund
  • 30–44 days: 50% refund
  • <30 days: non-refundable — insurance advised

Children

  • 0–2: free · 2–5: 25%
  • 6–11: 50%
  • 12+: full adult price

Good to know

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.

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

Questions about this 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 licensed local guide 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.

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★★★★★ 60+ reviews on Google & TripAdvisor
💬 +20 109 234 5458

Operated by Egypt Planners · Licensed operator · Reg #256841

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Operated by Egypt Planners — licensed tour operator (Ministry of Commerce Reg. #256841)