Egypt: Ancient Wonders & Temples of the Nile - 7 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female%
- Male%
Age range
18 - 100Start / End
- Cairo
- Luxor
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
14Highlights
- Sail the Nile in style aboard a traditional dahabiya with personalized service and stunning river views
- Walk in the footsteps of pharaohs at the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings
- Connect over a home-cooked meal with a local family and learn about life along the Nile
- Marvel at ancient treasures and golden masks inside Cairo’s Egyptian Museum
- Witness hieroglyphs up close inside grand temples and tombs with expert local guides
- Soak up the peaceful beauty of the Egyptian countryside between iconic landmarks
Interested in this tour ?
Our travel experts will help answer any questions you have and book your next adventure.
JessSenior Travel Expert
Summary
Welcome to Egypt — where ancient legends and everyday life meet in the most unforgettable ways. This week-long journey invites you to go beyond the postcard pyramids (though yes, you’ll see those too) and dive into the heart of this captivating country. Cruise down the Nile on a graceful dahabiya, swap stories over a home-cooked meal with a local family, and get wonderfully lost in the wonder of hieroglyphs, golden tombs, and bustling Cairo streets. From grand temples to quiet countryside scenes, every day offers a little magic and a lot of meaning.
Map
Itinerary
Days 1-0: Cairo: Welcome to EgyptArrival Day
Egypt, a land synonymous with ancient pyramids, awe-inspiring temples, and the legendary pharaohs, offers an experience far richer than its monumental history. While its historical sites are undeniably captivating, it's the vibrant, deep-rooted culture that truly transforms a visit into an unforgettable journey. From the bustling, vibrant energy of Cairo, a city that never sleeps, to the serene, picturesque charm of villages nestled along the life-giving Nile riverbanks, every corner of Egypt pulses with life and tradition. Upon arrival in Cairo enjoy an included transfer to your hotel. In the evening, meet your fellow group members at a welcome meeting to learn important details about your upcoming adventure. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with views of the Pyramids.
Days 2-1: Giza: The Great Pyramid, Sphinx, & Community Farming
Consider the sheer, staggering scale of the undertaking required to construct these pyramids and contemplate the ancient ingenuity while you marvel at their impressive structures. Ponder the mysteries still held within their immense stone blocks – secrets of their construction, the lives of those who built them, and the pharaohs they eternally entombed – mysteries that continue to captivate and challenge archaeologists, historians, and scientists to this very day. While none of this was new to the locals, seeing them for the first time can take your breath away. Start the day in Giza, exploring the Great Pyramid site and the Sphinx. Follow this with lunch at Nawaya to experience a the tour operator-supported community farming initiative. Then transfer to the Egyptian Museum to discover more of Egypt’s impressive history.
Days 3-2: Aswan: Your OMG day
There’s nothing quite like the freedom of choice while travelling. After flying from Cairo to Aswan you will choose to explore one of two incredible Egyptian temples. Aswan sits near the dam that formed Lake Nassar. The world united around the mission to save the Abu Simbel and Philae temples from being submerged forever in the rising waters of the lake. A global effort was put in place to dismantle and rebuild the temples at a site above the high water mark. That feat of humanity meant that these temples were saved for travellers to continue to enjoy today. Board a flight to Aswan in the morning and then have the choice between two activity options to discover Abu Simbel Temple or Philae Temple. You can’t go wrong with either experience as they both allow an authentic taste of history and life along the Nile.
Days 4-3: Aswan to Kom Ombo: Sailing the Nile
Our journey north begins today along the Nile aboard a traditional dahabiya. Sail past farmlands and small islands that have forever been bathed by rich nutrients, creating fertile land in a narrow green ribbon along the river's banks, surrounded by desert on both sides. Our day ends as we dock near Gebal El Silseila, the perfect vantage point for a sunset on the Nile. This morning you can choose to pre-book a visit to Philae Temple if you chose Abu Simbel yesterday. Otherwise you will have a free, leisurely morning before the group boards the dahabiya, your OMG Stay. Sail north on the Nile to Kom Ombo and visit the temple here before docking for the evening nearby.
Days 5-4: Kom Ombo to Luxor: People along the Nile
The sails are up and your first full day of sailing on the Nile. Get ready to discover incredible sites and enjoy an experience only possible on your dahabiya. Sail further north along the Nile today towards Luxor. Along the way visit Gebal Silsila and Esna Temple. Then, go for a walk in Esna Village before sailing to Luxor and having dinner on board.
Days 6-5: Luxor: Egypt's Great Temples & Local Hospitality
Embark on an early morning excursion to delve into the tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the temples of the West Bank. While tales of ancient curses persist, the genuine challenge lies in the limited time available to thoroughly explore each tomb. The amazement you feel is profound when your eyes first see the great temples of Egypt. You immediately understand why for centuries people have been coming here to explore and observe these incredible monuments. Visit the iconic Valley of the Kings in the morning before a local family-hosted lunch on the West Bank. Then, tour Karnak Temple before checking in at the hotel to get settled and have some free time. After dark the group will visit Luxor by night to enjoy the monument all lit up. Choose to join the group for an optional farewell dinner afterwards.
Days 7-6: Luxor: Departure Day
Your adventure comes to an end, and you can depart at any time today. You may be leaving Egypt behind, but the experiences you have will last forever. Depart at any time.
Prices & Availability
Please select the number of adults and children to see start dates and prices
What's Included
Meals
Breakfasts: 6, Lunches: 5, Dinners: 3Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.Vegetarian options available
Local Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Airport Transfers
Arrival OnlyAn airport transfer to the start of the tour is included. Please contact our team if you require a quote for a return transfer.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Departure Tax
Departure tax is usually included in your air tickets. If you depart Egypt via Nuweiba Port, there is a departure tax of approximately 9 USD.
Important Notes
1. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.2. EXCURSION RECOMMENDATIONSIf you arrive a day or two early in Cairo and wish to do some excursions, we recommend that you wait until you get to the joining hotel and contact our local staff for more information on available tours and excursions. Tourists are frequently over-charged for excursions bought from vendors on the street or at the airport. 3. TIPPING NOTE:Tipping is a way of life in the Middle East. Locals themselves will usually tip anyone who provides them with services. Due to this expectation, your CEO will collect a Tipping Kitty at the start of the tour. For more details see the Tipping section below. 4. TRAVEL DAYSPlease be aware that there are some long driving days on this tour. You can refer to the detailed trip itinerary for more information on estimated travel times. Please note that any times mentioned are approximations only to give you an idea of the journey lengths and the actual time taken will depend on factors such as public transport timetables and road conditions. A mix of private and public transport is used throughout this trip.5. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIESPlease note all optional activities and entrance fees will need to be paid by card only as per a new change implemented by the ministry of tourism in Egypt.6. RAMADANAccording to the lunar cycle, Ramadan will fall betweenFeb 28th - Mar 29th 2025, and Feb 17th - Mar 19th 2026. Please note that Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world, during which time the followers of Islam should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan. Please wear loose fitting clothes, that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public out of respect for those who can't at that time.7. MONEYUS Dollars that are series 1996 or earlier are not accepted and very difficult to change in regions of East and Southern Africa, as there are a lot of forgeries in circulation. 8. EXTRASLooking to add to your experience? Check out our Extras! Specially designed for travellers with unique interests, Extras are optional add-ons to your G adventures trip that make your adventure more you-centric. Extras must be booked prior to departure, please see details in our optional activities field and ask your sales GCO or travel agent about booking.9. AID AL-ADHADuring your visit to this country, we would like to inform you about an important celebration called Aid Al-Adha. This holiday may impact your travel experience, as most shops and restaurants are closed during the celebration. Some of the historical places we visit might also be closed during this time. There will be a shorter number of staff at the hotels and less crowded streets on the day of the celebration.
Packing List
Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended) • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear Note: Please note that you should bring slippers for your time on the Dahabiya as no shoes are permitted to be worn on the boat.
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.It is important to pack clothes for warm to hot days and cool evenings. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.