Egypt Itinerary 12 Day: Cairo, Nile Cruise & Sharm 2026/2027

Duration12 Days
AvailabilityEvery Day
PickupCairo Airport
Tour TypeSmall group
(max 16 people)

Overview

Top Egypt Itinerary 12 Day to Cairo, Alexandria, Nile Cruise & Sharm El-Sheikh

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Egypt with our exclusive Egypt itinerary 12 days. This comprehensive tour will take you on a captivating exploration of Cairo, Alexandria, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Luxor, and the enchanting shores of Sharm El-Sheikh. Enjoy the best of Egypt with our exclusive 12-day Egypt itineraries.

Begin your adventure in the bustling metropolis of Cairo, where the ancient wonders of the Pyramids and the Sphinx await. Delve deeper into the mysteries of ancient Egypt with a visit to the Egyptian Museum, home to a treasure trove of artifacts. Venture to Alexandria to explore the magnificent wonders from the Greco-Roman period. Embark on a leisurely Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor, where the timeless beauty of the river unfolds before your eyes. Journey to the southern reaches of Egypt to discover the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel temples, dedicated to the pharaoh Ramses II. Conclude your adventure with a well-deserved break on the pristine shores of Sharm El-Sheikh. Sharm El-Sheikh offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it the ideal destination to cap off your 12-day Egypt tour package.

This Egypt itinerary 12 days offers the perfect blend of cultural exploration, relaxation, and adventure. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the wonders of Egypt – Book now!

Tour Highlights

Cairo Pyramids Tour: Explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, marveling at their ancient grandeur. Visit the Egyptian Museum to discover a wealth of artifacts from Egypt's past.
Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor: Embark on a leisurely cruise along the Nile River, stopping at historic sites such as Philae Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and Edfu Temple.
Abu Simbel Temples: Journey to Abu Simbel to witness the impressive temples built by Ramses II, featuring colossal statues and intricate carvings.
Sharm El-Sheikh Beach Vacation: Enjoy relaxation and adventure on the shores of Sharm El-Sheikh, with options for snorkeling, diving, hiking, and soaking up the sun on pristine beaches.
Red Sea Adventure: Dive into the vibrant underwater world of the Red Sea, known for its colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life

Price Includes

Meet & assist service upon arrival and departure
All transfers as per the itinerary by air-conditioned vehicles
5-star standard hotel in Cairo on a Bed and Breakfast basis for 05 nights
5-star standard Nile cruise ship on a full-board basis for 03 nights
5-star standard hotel in Sharm El-Sheikh on an All-inclusive basis for 03 nights
24 meals: 11 breakfasts, 07 lunches, and 06 dinners
Drinks at Sharm El-Sheikh hotel
Alexandria day trip from Cairo
Hotel picks up and drops off
Entrance fees as per the itinerary
Domestic flights as per the itinerary
Licensed English speaking tour guides
All service charges and local taxes

Price Excludes

International flights
Arrival visa
Gratuities
Meals and drinks when not included
Any optional tour
Travel insurance

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Cairo, Egypt

Arrival at Cairo International Airport will be greeted with a warm welcome from our representative at “Egypt Best Vacations.” They will provide assistance and guidance through the arrival procedures and visa regulations. Enjoy a transfer to your hotel, where you can relax during your free time, marking the start of your Egypt itinerary 12 days to Cairo, Alexandria, Nile cruise and Sharm El-Sheikh.

Meals Plan: No Meals Included

Day 2: Visit Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Saqqara

Begin your 12-day discovery of Egypt with a captivating visit to the Great Pyramids of Giza, enigmatic Sphinx, and unearthed necropolis of Saqqara.

Today, you will visit the Giza Plateau. Today’s tour includes the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure with the great Sphinx. The only ancient wonder which still remains (Khufu’s pyramid) awaits you. Today you will learn about the history of the pyramids, how they were constructed, and why they were constructed. Then on to the first pyramid in history of humanity, the Step Pyramid of King Djoser at Saqqara. Saqqara is one of the most important and richest necropolises in Egypt. It was the cemetery of Memphis, the 1^st capital city of United Egypt in 3200 BCE. Then, transfer back to your hotel.

Meals Plan: Breakfast Only

Day 3: Wonders of Alexandria Tour

Today, on your Egypt itinerary 12 days, you will explore the enchanting City of Alexandria, which served as the capital during the Greco-Roman era. Your tour includes the famous Roman Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. The catacombs are huge Egyptian tombs and royal cemeteries with Ptolemaic and Roman influences. The catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa are one the largest Roman burial sites not just in Alexandria but in Egypt. These catacombs started as a private tomb for a wealthy family, then became a public cemetery. The catacombs house more than 300 tombs.

From the catacombs to the Pompey’s Pillar. Many of the ancient historians did not tell us more details about the “Pompey’s Pillar” but about the buildings that stood nearby and have disappeared now. The hill on which the pillar is erected was covered with temples and houses a long time before the Roman era. It was the place of the Citadel of Rhakotis. A temple was dedicated to Osiris-Serapis was built on the mountain. Then proceed to the Citadel of Qaitbay. The Citadel of Qaitbay in Alexandria is one of the most important fortifications in Egypt. It was constructed by Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaitbay to defend Egypt against the Ottomans/Turks. End your tour in Alexandria with visiting the Library of Alexandria. Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant, then travel back to Cairo.

Meals Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 4: Egyptian Museum, Saladin Citadel and Khan El-Khalili Tour

Explore the fantastic contents of the historical Egyptian Museum at Tahrir Square in Cairo. Hundreds of objects from all periods of Egypt’s past are displayed on the two floors of the museum. From the museum to the Citadel of the Sunni Muslim leader Saladin, which was built in 1172 to defend Cairo against the Crusaders. The White Mosque of Mohammed Ali Pasha is a prominent feature of the citadel. You will finish your tour today at the historical bazaar of Khan El-Khalili, the largest bazaar in the Middle East. Then, transfer back to your hotel.

Meals Plan: Breakfast Only

Day 5: Fly to Aswan - Aswan Tour - Nile River cruise Vacation

A breathtaking Nile cruise vacation awaits! Surrender to the rhythm of the Nile as your home for the next three nights becomes a comfort vessel gliding through ancient landscapes. ️So, you will take a transfer from your hotel to Cairo Airport to fly to Aswan to begin your 3-night Nile River cruise from Aswan to Luxor. Meet your guide just outside the arrival terminal at Aswan Airport to commence your Aswan tour.

Explore the wonders of the beautiful City of Aswan. Your first stop will be at the High Dam, one of the great engineering feats of the 1960s. Then proceed to the beautiful Temple of Isis at Philae Island. The temple was built during the Greco-Roman era and, was dedicated to Isis, goddess of Love and Magic in ancient Egypt. You will end your tour at the granite quarry of the Unfinished Obelisk. Then, transfer to your Nile cruise ship. Overnight in Aswan.

Optional tour: Nubian Village Tour in Aswan

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Abu Simbel - Kom Ombo - Edfu

Embark on an early journey (3.5 hours) to Abu Simbel to witness the impressive temples built by Ramses II, featuring colossal statues and intricate carvings. Be amazed with the stunning Temple of Nefertari with its intricate inscriptions. Return back to your Nile cruise ship to set sail to Kom Ombo around the lunchtime. Disembark at Kom Ombo to visit the twin Temple of Horus and Sobek. It was built during the Greco-Roman period. It was built over the ruined temple of the New Kingdom. The temple began during the time of Ptolemy V and was completed by the time of Emperor Tiberius. The emperors Domitian, Caracalla, and others added to the temple. So it took about 400 years to finish. Enjoy a short visit to the Crocodile Museum, before you go back to your river cruise to set sail to Edfu. Overnight in Edfu.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Edfu - Esna - Luxor East Bank Tour

Before breakfast, you will take a horse and carriage to the temple of Horus in Edfu. This temple is the most intact temple in Egypt and it was built during the Greco-Roman period. The Temple of Edfu is fully inscribed with reliefs and hieroglyphs on its exterior and interior walls. Take your carriage back to your cruise ship to set sail to Luxor via the Lock of Esna. Upon arrival in Luxor, you will visit the impressive Temple of Karnak and the majestic Temple of Luxor. Both were dedicated to the Theban Triad; Amun, Mut and Khonsu. Overnight in Luxor.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Luxor West Bank Tour - Sharm El-Sheikh

Disembarkation, then visit the magnificent Valley of the Kings, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried. Then to the unique Temple of the female pharaoh Hatshepsut, who ruled for about 20 years as a sole pharaoh of Egypt. You will end your tour at the giant Colossi of Memnon of Amenhotep III. Then, head to Luxor Airport to fly to Sharm El-Sheikh. Enjoy three days of relaxation during the upcoming segment of your Egypt itinerary 12 days to Cairo, Nile cruise and Sharm El-Sheikh. Enjoy some beach activities and explore the magnificent underwater world of the Red Sea.

Optional tour: Sunrise Hot Balloon over Luxor

Meals Plan: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9: Sharm El-Sheikh Vacation

Enjoy a free day in Sharm El-Sheikh. Tours such as diving, glass boat, safari, snorkeling, and submarine rides are available upon request.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Hiking Moses Mountain

Experience the breathtaking beauty of a sunrise hike up Mount Sinai, a sacred peak steeped in history and spirituality. As you ascend the rugged slopes of the mountain under the cloak of darkness, guided by a Bedouin guide and the light of the stars above, feel a sense of anticipation building within you. With each step, you draw closer to the summit, where a spectacular vista awaits. As the first light of dawn begins to paint the sky in hues of pink and gold, find yourself standing at the pinnacle of Mount Sinai, gazing out over a landscape that stretches to the horizon in all directions. Witness the sun as it breaks free from the embrace of the earth, casting its warm glow upon the ancient land below.

Take a moment to reflect on the significance of this sacred site, where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments millennia ago. Feel a sense of awe and reverence wash over you as you soak in the serenity of the moment. After capturing the beauty of the sunrise in your heart and memory, begin your descent back down the mountain, retracing your steps to the base where your transfer awaits. As you journey back to your hotel in Sharm El-Sheikh, carry with you the memories of this unforgettable experience, knowing that you have witnessed the dawn from one of the most revered peaks in the world.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11: Fly back to Cairo

Transfer to Sharm El-Sheikh Airport to fly back to Cairo. Transfer from Cairo Airport to your hotel in Cairo for final night of your Egypt itinerary 12 days to Cairo, Nile cruise and Sharm El-Sheikh.

Meals Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 12: End of your Egypt itinerary 12 days

Wrap up your Egypt itinerary 12 days with a transfer to Cairo Airport for your final departure. It is really sad to leave, but feel free to contact us about your next adventure in Egypt.

Meals Plan: Breakfast Only

What Our Guests Say on Tripadvisor

      
   Egypt Best Vacations
   129 Tripadvisor reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
    Vivian H 
 
 
 
 Verified Mid-tier Lake Nasser Cruise
Just finished the Lake Nasser Cruise mid tier with Egypt Best Vacation. Highly recommend. Food and service are better than 5-star hotels in USA. Had a wonderful relaxing time.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
    Momaleoale 
 
 
 
 Verified Family travel in Egypt
Thank you for this amazing trip! Everything was perfectly organized, from our arrival at the airport to the day we returned home. The Nile cruise was wonderful, our guide in Cairo was excellent, and we couldn’t have asked for anything better. The choice of restaurants and the excursions were also outstanding. Thank you for making this experience so special for our whole family! ❤️)
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
    Destination732328 
 
 
 
 Verified Fantastic 8-day private tour of Egypt – highly recommended!
Fantastic 8-day private tour of Egypt – highly recommended! We recently returned from an amazing 8-day private tour of Egypt with Egypt Best Vacations, and we couldn't be happier with our experience! Our trip included Cairo, Aswan, Abu Simbel, a 3-night Nile cruise, Luxor and Giza. Everything was organised in advance, including domestic flights, hotels, transfers, transport, entrance tickets and private guides. From the moment we arrived, everything ran smoothly. The drivers were punctual, professional and reliable, and the whole trip was very well coordinated. A special mention goes to our guide in Cairo and Giza, Mina, who was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly and professional. He made our visits particularly enjoyable, sharing interesting information and answering all our questions. We were also very happy with everyone involved throughout the trip, including our guides, drivers and airport representatives, who helped make the whole experience so smooth and stress-free. Cairo Airport was quite chaotic, but having a representative from the agency there to assist us made the process much easier, and we really appreciated their help. Overall, we had a fantastic experience and felt well looked after throughout the entire trip. Everything was very well organised, allowing us to enjoy Egypt without having to worry about the logistics. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend Egypt Best Vacations to anyone planning a trip to Egypt. Highly recommended – definitely 5 stars from us!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
    Eric E 
 
 
 
 Verified Egypt Best Vacations is aptly named
We spent 10 days in Egypt with our friends. The entire trip was coordinated by Egypt Best Vacations. From the beginning, the communication was superb. We felt like we were coddled throughout the trip starting with Tarik who met us at the airport and facilitated and expedited the immigration process, to Karim who drove us safely everywhere around Cairo. Our guide Abdel was friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about Egyptian history, and made our experience very enjoyable. Seeing the pyramids in Giza, and visiting the new Grand Egyptian Museum was spectacular. We then flew south to Upper Egypt where Ahmed met us and guided us from Abu Simbel to Aswan and ultimately on our Nile River dahabeya cruise to Luxor. Kamal did a great job driving us in Upper Egypt, and we felt extremely safe along the way. Ahmed’s knowledge of Egyptian history is astounding, and he could easily be a professor on the subject. The entire trip was curated and coordinated by Essam who even came to meet us in Luxor, which was such a friendly gesture. We loved our Egyptian experience, and would absolutely recommend Egypt Best Vacations to anyone who is considering a trip to Egypt. There is no question that if we wanted to visit Egypt again, we would use this company and the entire crew again. This was a top notch company with top notch coordination.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
    Debbie T 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonderful Experience
Our tour with Egypt Best Vacations was truly an unforgettable trip. It was extremely well organized from airport pick up and drop off to getting us to every destination on a luxury bus. Our tour guide Essam was kind, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and friendly. He went above and beyond to help us understand Egyptian history, culture and traditions. The Nile River cruise on the Dahabiya was amazing with an outstanding crew making everyone feel welcomed. I highly recommend Egypt best Vacations.!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
    Kirby M 
 
 
 
 Verified Trip of a lifetime!
I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about this experience! From the moment we arrived in Cairo to our time in Luxor and four unforgettable days cruising the Nile River, every single detail was exceptional. Our incredible tour guide, Essam, and his associate, Ali, went above and beyond to make this journey extraordinary. Their knowledge of Egypt’s rich history, attention to detail, and genuine care for our safety and comfort made all the difference. The accommodations, the staff, the organization, and the seamless coordination of everything were absolutely outstanding. They even arranged unforgettable extras, including private ceremonies and a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, making an already magical experience even more special. I can say without hesitation that this was the best trip of my life. Egypt is a remarkable place, but experiencing it with this team took it to an entirely different level. I would recommend this company over and over and over again. Truly the trip of a lifetime!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
    Galen H 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing tour!
Our tour was so Awesome and our guide couldn’t have been better, he knew the answers for every question I asked and made it fun with his sense of humor. We started in Cairo, flew to Luxor and then sailed on a private cruise to Aswan. Seeing all the history, Pyramids and temples was incredible. Highly recommend Egypt Best Vacations!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
    Giuseppe Z 
 
 
 
 Verified Spectacular vacation... excellent service..
Spectacular 10-day tour... maximum availability from the agency in tailoring the trip to our needs. From our arrival in Cairo, where they welcomed us and helped us with visas, to our departure for the return trip, we were followed in an excellent manner... my wife and I had a great time... We asked for guides who spoke Italian; Abram and Amro were 2 exceptional, helpful, and very knowledgeable guides... we felt pampered and never alone... thanks for everything.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
    AtlantaTraveller 
 
 
 
 Verified An unforgettable and beautifully orchestrated Egypt experience
An unforgettable and beautifully orchestrated Egypt experience We just returned from an incredible trip to Egypt with Egypt Best Vacations, and it was truly one of the most memorable journeys our family has taken. Egypt can feel overwhelming at first — the airports, early morning flights, cruise schedules, temple visits, Cairo traffic, tickets, transfers, and the sheer magnitude of history everywhere you go. But Egypt Best Vacations handled the logistics with impressive precision and made the entire experience feel effortless. That allowed us to be fully present and enjoy the trip instead of constantly worrying about the next step. Our journey began in Cairo and then continued to Luxor, where we boarded our Nile cruise to Aswan. Luxor was absolutely extraordinary. Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon were all breathtaking. What made the visits even more meaningful was having a knowledgeable guide who could explain the history, symbolism, and significance behind what we were seeing. In Egypt, the right guide makes a huge difference — otherwise you are just looking at ancient stones without understanding the civilization behind them. The Nile cruise was another highlight. Sailing between Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan gave the trip a beautiful rhythm. Philae Temple was stunning, and Abu Simbel was worth every minute of the early morning journey. Standing in front of those monumental temples is humbling and almost surreal. Back in Cairo, we visited the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Coptic Cairo, the Citadel, and Khan El-Khalili. Each place had its own character, from the grandeur of the pyramids to the spiritual depth of Coptic Cairo and the energy of the bazaar. The itinerary was ambitious, but it never felt chaotic because the team managed the details so well. What we appreciated most was the professionalism, responsiveness, and genuine care from Egypt Best Vacations. They were punctual, organized, flexible when needed, and clearly experienced in creating a smooth experience for travelers. For a first trip to Egypt, that kind of coordination is invaluable. I would highly recommend Egypt Best Vacations to anyone planning to visit Egypt. They helped turn a complex itinerary into a seamless, enriching, and unforgettable adventure.

Things to Know

Pricing Policy

All our prices are in USD per person per trip. You can also make your payment online through a secure payment gateway with no additional fees or surcharges. We accept USD, Euros, GBP, CAD, AUD and NZD.

The starting price is for one adult in a twin room on a group tour. It shows the lowest price during the low season. There’s a single supplement for single accommodation.

Tour Voucher

Once your tour is confirmed, we will send you an email with the final tour confirmation and a voucher to print and bring with you. This voucher will include all necessary details, such as customer care contact numbers, the tour operator’s information, and other relevant details for your convenience.

Tipping

Tipping is not included in our tour packages and is left entirely to your discretion. While it is not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated by the people who assist you during your journey.

Children Policy

Children from 0-2 years pay 30% of the adult price.
Children from 3-5 years pay 40% of the adult price.
Children from 6-11 years pay 50% of the adult price.
Children from 12 years pay adult price.

Cancellation Policy

We do not charge cancellation fees for tours canceled due to ‘force majeure’ events such as natural disasters or other uncontrollable circumstances. However, if you cancel for personal or business reasons after we have incurred booking costs on your behalf, these costs will be charged to you.

From the date of booking up to 75 days before the date of your arrival, 10% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 74 and 61 days before your arrival date, 25% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 60 and 30 days before your arrival date, 50% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 29 and 15 days before your arrival date, 75% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 14 and 08 days before your arrival date, 90% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 07 and 1 day before your arrival date, 100% of the total tour price will be charged.

Deposit and Payment

Between 25-50% to secure your booking through a payment link. Payment can be made via credit or debit card (MasterCard/Visa) through our VeriSign Secured payment system. The remaining balance must be paid in cash to our representative upon the start of your tour.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend buying a policy that covers medical care and trip cancellation before you travel.

Extra Expenses & Additional Entry Tickets

Our tours do not include entrance fees for special archaeological sites such as:

Walking inside the pyramids.
Tombs of Seti I and Ramses V in the Valley of the Kings
Entering the Tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor.

These attractions require an additional fee. Please contact us if you would like to add or adjust anything in your itinerary.

Other personal expenses during your trip may include:

Food tours and alcoholic beverages.
Tipping for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Visa fees and recreational activities.
Additional transportation.
Unexpected costs due to bad weather, flight cancellations, or extra hotel nights and meals.

FAQs

What is the Best Tour Operator for Egypt?

The best tour operator for Egypt depends on your preferences for experience, budget, and itinerary. These companies offer tailored Egypt vacation packages, with expert guides and well-planned itineraries. Egypt Best Vacations is a notable choice for those looking for personalized tours that cover a variety of Egypt’s top attractions, including historical sites, luxurious resorts, and unique cultural experiences.

Is Egypt Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular tourist areas such as Cairo, Luxor, Sharm El Sheikh, and Hurghada. However, like any destination, travelers should take standard safety precautions. It’s important to stay updated on local news, follow travel advisories, and avoid politically sensitive areas. Tourists are advised to stay in well-known hotels, use reputable tour operators, and be cautious of scams in busy areas. Overall, Egypt remains a popular and safe destination for travelers.

Are Private Tours in Egypt Worth It?

Yes, private tours in Egypt are worth it for many reasons. They offer a more personalized experience, allowing you to explore Egypt’s most famous sites, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor, at your own pace. A private guide can provide in-depth historical insights and local knowledge, enriching the overall experience. Private tours also offer flexibility in terms of itinerary, making them an excellent option for those looking for a more tailored and exclusive experience in Egypt.

What Are the Must-See Sights in Egypt?

Egypt is home to many famous landmarks. Here are the must-see sights:

The Pyramids of Giza: The iconic Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and the pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure.
Luxor: Known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, featuring the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple.
The Grand Egyptian Museum (Cairo): home to thousands of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun.
Abu Simbel: Stunning temples carved into the mountains by Ramses II.
The Nile River: A cruise along the Nile offers a unique view of Egypt’s ancient sites and landscapes.
Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada: Famous for their beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and resorts.

Which Egypt Tour is Best?

The best Egypt tour depends on your interests. For a comprehensive experience, Nile River Cruises are incredibly popular as they combine sightseeing with relaxation. A tour that includes both Cairo and Luxor is ideal for history lovers, as these cities are home to the majority of Egypt’s ancient monuments. If you’re interested in exploring beyond the famous sights, a desert safari tour or a Red Sea beach holiday (including Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada) could be the best option for a balanced trip of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Ultimately, the best tour will match your interests, whether it’s history, adventure, or a mix of both.