9 Day Egypt Pharaohs Route & Dahabiya Nile Cruise Tour

Q: How many destinations can I see in your 9 day Egypt itinerary?

Egypt Best Vacations offers a rich selection of 9-day journeys showcasing Egypt’s headline acts. Our 9-day Egypt tours connect Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Alexandria, then let you drift along the Nile between Aswan and Luxor in whichever direction fits your plan. You can sail aboard a classic large cruise ship, enjoy the elegance of a Dahabiya, or embrace the simplicity of a traditional felucca. Beach time is part of the experience too. Unwind on the Red Sea in Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh. Looking for something wilder? Add desert adventure in Siwa Oasis or the spectacular White Desert.

Q: How much does your 9-day tour cost?

Egypt Best Vacations 9-day tours cost vary based on the type of tour, the level of luxury, and the number of travelers. We provide 9-day budget, standard and luxury tours. As a general guideline : 9-Day Budget Tours: Begin from $1100 per person in a twin room. 9-Day Standard Tours: Begin from $1300 per person in a twin room. 9-Day Luxury Tours: Begin from $2900 per person in a twin room.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Yes, Egypt is generally considered safe for tourists. The Egyptian government has implemented enhanced security measures, including a visible tourist police presence at major attractions and on tourist routes, to ensure the safety of visitors. Like any major tourist destination, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings and use common sense.

Duration9 Days
AvailabilityEvery Day
PickupCairo Airport
Tour TypeSmall group
(max 16 people)

Overview

9 Day Egypt Pharaohs Route & Dahabiya Nile Cruise Tour

Experience the best 9 day Egypt Pharaohs Route & Dahabiya Nile Cruise Tour. Step back in time and explore the majestic wonders of ancient Egypt on this unforgettable 9-day tour. Sail the peaceful Nile like a pharaoh on a Dahabiya Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Immerse yourself in the land of pharaohs, pyramids, and temples. Discover the secrets of one of the world’s most fascinating civilizations with our 9-day Egypt travel packages.

Begin 9 day Egypt & Dahabiya cruise tour in Cairo. Explore the Great Pyramids of Giza and the impressive Grand Egyptian Museum. Fly from Cairo to Luxor to begin your 4-night Dahabiya Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Explore the great sights along the Nile valley from Luxor to Aswan. Discover the magnificent tombs of the Valley of the Kings, the largest temple in the world, Karnak Temple. Explore the most intact temple in Egypt, Edfu Temple. Visit the beautiful Temple of Philae in Aswan. Fly from Aswan back to Cairo for the rest of your 9-day Egypt vacation package.

Uncover the wonders of ancient Egypt with our 9-Day Pharaohs Route & Dahabiya Nile Cruise Tour. From Cairo’s pyramids to sailing along the Nile and the majestic temples of Luxor and Aswan, this journey offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and elegance.

Tour Highlights

Visiting the only ancient wonder still standing, the Great Pyramid of Khufu when you visit the Great Pyramids of Giza and the giant Sphinx
The fabulous contents of the impressive Grand Egyptian Museum
Sailing the peaceful Nile River like a pharaoh from Luxor up to Aswan on a Dahabiya Nile cruise for four nights
Ponder over the ancient Egyptian afterlife and underworld at the magnificent tombs of the Valley of the Kings
The largest temple in the world, Karnak Temple in Luxor
The beautiful Temple of Philae in Aswan, the Pearl of Egypt

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 04 nights
Dahabiya Nile cruise on a full-board basis for 04 nights
17 meals: 08 breakfasts, 05 lunches, and 04 dinners
Water, hot and soft drinks on the Dahabiya cruise
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

Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will meet and assist by our representative of “Egypt Best Vacations” who will help you through the arrival and visa regulations. Transfer to your hotel and the beginning of your 9 day Egypt & Dahabiya Cruise tour package.

Meals Plan: No Meals Included

Day 2: Visit Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and GEM Museum

Your actual 9 day Egypt & Dahabiya cruise tour begins when our tour guide picks you up from your hotel in Cairo to commence your tour to the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the GEM Museum.

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. Are you ready to discover it from the inside? (Optional). Today you will learn about the history of the pyramids, how they were constructed, and why they were constructed.

Savor your lunch at a local restaurant, then proceed to the Grand Egyptian Museum. Explore the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian treasures in one stunning modern complex. You’ll stand face-to-face with the full Tutankhamun collection and enjoy immersive galleries that bring Egypt’s history to life. Then, transfer back to your hotel.

Meals Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Day 3: Fly to Luxor - Dahabiya Nile Cruise Holiday

A breathtaking Dahabiya Nile cruise holiday awaits! You’re going to spend the next four nights of your 9 day Egypt & Dahabiya cruise tour on board a Dahabiya Nile cruise. So, after your breakfast, you will take a transfer to the Cairo Airport to fly to Luxor, where you will embark on your 4-night Dahabiya Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Meet your guide just outside the arrival terminal to commence your tour. Explore the largest temple in the world, the Temple of Karnak, and the majestic Temple of Luxor. Both temples were dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. Then, head to your Dahabiya cruise to check into your room. Overnight in Luxor.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Visit Kings Valley, Hatshepsut Temple and Colossi of Memnon

Visit the glorious tombs of the Valley of the Kings. The pharaohs during the New Kingdom ceased building pyramids and cut their tombs deep into the mountain trying to hide them from grave robbers. There are 65 tombs in the Valley of the Kings, your guide will recommend the best three tombs of the ones open to visit. From the glorious Valley of the Kings to the unique temple of the female pharaoh Hatshepsut who served as solo pharaoh for about 20 years. You will end your trip at the giant Colossi of Memnon which survives from the Temple of pharaoh Amenhotep III. Then, transfer back to the Dahabiya cruise to set sail to Edfu via the Lock of Esna. Overnight in Edfu.

Optional tour: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon over Luxor

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Visit Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples

Breakfast then, take a horse and carriage to visit the Temple of Horus in Edfu. The Temple of Horus in Edfu is the most intact temple in Egypt and one of the most beautiful temples 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 Dahabiya cruise to set sail to Kom Ombo. Disembark in Kom Ombo to visit the twin Temple of Horus and Sobek together with the Crocodile Museum. Back on board to set sail to Aswan. Overnight in Aswan.

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Aswan Tour

Welcome to the lovely City of Aswan. Visit the High Dam, which is regarded as one of the most significant engineering feats of the twentieth century. Aswan High Dam was built to save water and protect Egypt from the Nile‘s high and low floods and to generate electricity.

Continue to the beautiful Temple of Philae. Philae Temple or the temple of Isis at Philae Island in Aswan is one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt and known as the “Pearl of Egypt”. At Philae Island, the popular cult of Isis, goddess of Love and Magic, was developed. End your Aswan tour at the granite quarry of the Unfinished Obelisk. You will learn here how the ancient Egyptians fashioned obelisks and statues of their gods and kings. Transfer back to your Dahabiya Nile cruise.

Optional tour: Nubian Village tour

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Fly back to Cairo

Disembarkation, followed by a transfer to Aswan Airport to fly back to Cairo. Transfer from Cairo Airport to your hotel.

Optional tour: Tour to Abu Simbel Temples

Meals Plan: Breakfast Only

Day 8: Coptic Cairo, Saladin Citadel and Khan El-Khalili Tour

Following your breakfast at the hotel, you will visit the Citadel of Saladin, which was built in 1172 to protect Cairo from the Crusaders. At the citadel, you can visit the White Mosque of Mohammed Ali Pasha, which is one of its most prominent features. Continue to Coptic Cairo District to visit the Hanging Church, Abu Serga Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue. Your tour will conclude in the largest market in Egypt, Khan El-Khalili, a historical bazaar. Then, transfer back to your hotel for final night of your 9 day Egypt & Dahabiya cruise tour package.

Meals Plan: Breakfast Only

Day 9: End of your 9 day Egypt & Dahabiya cruise tour

Wrap up your 9 day Egypt & Dahabiya cruise tour with a transfer to Cairo Airport for 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.

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.

Here is a suggested tipping list:

Driver – full day $3-5 per person per day.

Driver – transfer $1-3 per person per day.

Tour guide – full day $15-20 per person per day.

Tour guide – half day $10-15 per person per day.

Representative / tour leader $3-5 per person per day.

Nile cruise crew $5–10 per person per night paid at the end of the cruise.

Dahabiya Nile cruise crew $10-20 per person per night at the end of the cruise.

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

A deposit between 25-50% is required to secure your booking through a payment link. The remaining balance will also be paid through payment links.

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

When should I book my 9-day trip to Egypt?

The earlier the better, especially in high season from October to April. Nile cruises and internal flights between Luxor and Aswan fill quickly.

Booking ahead also means better cabin choices, preferred hotels, and more convenient flight times. Last-minute space can exist, but availability may be limited and prices often rise as departure dates approach.

If your travel dates fall around Christmas, New Year, or Easter, reserving several months in advance is strongly recommended to secure your ideal itinerary.

Do I need a visa for my 9-day vacation in Egypt?

Most travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at Egyptian airports or apply for an e-visa before departure. The process is generally quick and straightforward, especially when landing in Cairo.

An e-visa is requested online in advance, helping you skip paperwork after a long flight. It is typically issued for tourism stays and linked to your passport. Always make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.

How many destinations can I see in your 9 day Egypt itinerary?

Egypt Best Vacations offers a rich selection of 9-day journeys showcasing Egypt’s headline acts. Our 9-day Egypt tours connect Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Alexandria, then let you drift along the Nile between Aswan and Luxor in whichever direction fits your plan. You can sail aboard a classic large cruise ship, enjoy the elegance of a Dahabiya, or embrace the simplicity of a traditional felucca.

Beach time is part of the experience too. Unwind on the Red Sea in Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh. Looking for something wilder? Add desert adventure in Siwa Oasis or the spectacular White Desert.

What is the best time to visit Egypt for 9 days?

The ideal time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months, from September to April. During this period, the weather is pleasantly mild, making it much more comfortable for exploring archaeological sites . Summers (May to August) can be extremely hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan.

How much does your 9-day tour cost?

Egypt Best Vacations 9-day tours cost vary based on the type of tour, the level of luxury, and the number of travelers. We provide 9-day budget, standard and luxury tours. As a general guideline :

9-Day Budget Tours: Begin from $1100 per person in a twin room.
9-Day Standard Tours: Begin from $1300 per person in a twin room.
9-Day Luxury Tours: Begin from $2900 per person in a twin room.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Yes, Egypt is generally considered safe for tourists. The Egyptian government has implemented enhanced security measures, including a visible tourist police presence at major attractions and on tourist routes, to ensure the safety of visitors. Like any major tourist destination, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings and use common sense.

What should I pack for a 9-day trip to Egypt?

Packing essentials depend on the season, but a good rule of thumb includes:

Clothing: Lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for summer. Warm layers, including a jacket, for winter evenings.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring archaeological sites.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential year-round.
Other Essentials: A camera, any necessary medications, and a small daypack for excursions.

How should I dress, especially when visiting religious sites during my 9-day vacation?

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and modest dressing is appreciated, particularly when visiting mosques, churches, or monasteries. It is recommended to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. For example, women may want to carry a scarf to cover their hair in a mosque.

Can I use my credit card, or do I need cash in my 9-day tour in Egypt?

Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shops. However, it’s essential to carry some Egyptian Pounds in cash for smaller purchases, taxis, and tipping. ATMs are readily available in cities for withdrawing local currency.