Hidden Gems of Egypt Fayoum, El Minya, Amarna & Nile Cruise

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Overview

Over 13 days, travelers explore iconic highlights such as the Pyramids of Giza, Grand Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo landmarks, Fayoum Oasis, and the archaeological treasures of El Minya and Upper Egypt. The itinerary continues south to Tell El Amarna, Assiut, Sohag, Abydos, and Dendera, offering deep insight into ancient religious and royal heritage. In Luxor, guests discover the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, Karnak and Luxor Temples before boarding a 5-star Nile Cruise. The cruise experience includes Edfu and Kom Ombo temples, sailing the Nile in comfort with onboard dining and entertainment. In Aswan, visitors enjoy the High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, and Philae Temple, one of Egypt’s most picturesque sites. The journey concludes with a return flight to Cairo, optional bazaar visits, and departure with unforgettable memories of Egypt’s timeless wonders. Designed for travelers seeking an immersive Egypt experience, this itinerary blends historical exploration, cultural encounters, and scenic relaxation along the Nile River. From Cairo’s ancient monuments to the temples of Upper Egypt, every destination is guided by expert Egyptologists ensuring deep understanding of Egypt’s rich civilization.

Tour Itinerary

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Egypt

Day 1: Welcome to Egypt

Arrive at Cairo International Airport, where our friendly representative will meet and assist you through immigration and baggage claim, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival. From the moment you land, you’ll experience the warmth of Egyptian hospitality as you are escorted to your private air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Upon arrival at your hotel, enjoy a seamless check-in process. The rest of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring Cairo at your own pace. If you arrive early, consider optional evening experiences such as a captivating sound and light show at the Giza Plateau. Overnight in Cairo

Day 2: Giza Pyramids, Great Sphinx - Grand Egyptian Museum

After a delicious breakfast, begin your journey into ancient history with a visit to the legendary Giza Plateau, home to the world-famous Great Pyramids of Giza. Marvel at these extraordinary monuments, including the Pyramid of Khufu, and learn about their construction, purpose, and enduring mystery from your expert Egyptologist guide. Continue to the iconic Great Sphinx, a timeless guardian carved from limestone, followed by the nearby Valley Temple, where ancient royal mummification rituals were performed. After exploring the pyramids, enjoy a flavorful lunch (Koshary or Fatta) at a traditional Egyptian restaurant, offering authentic local cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the state-of-the-art Grand Egyptian Museum, the largest archaeological museum in the world. Here, you will discover thousands of artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun, presented with modern technology and immersive displays. Return to your hotel in Cairo after a day filled with awe-inspiring history, culture, and unforgettable sights. Overnight in Cairo Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Islamic Cairo - Salah El-Din Citadel, Mosques

After breakfast, dive into the rich cultural heritage of Cairo. Proceed to the impressive Citadel of Salah El-Din, a UNESCO-listed fortress that has stood as a symbol of Islamic Cairo for centuries. Inside the citadel, visit the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali, famous for its grand domes, towering minarets, and elegant alabaster interior. Continue your journey to the remarkable Sultan Hassan Mosque, considered one of the finest examples of Mamluk architecture. Then visit the historic Mosque of Ibn Tulun, one of the oldest mosques in Egypt, distinguished by its vast courtyard and unique spiral minaret. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel, reflecting on a day filled with architectural beauty and deep historical insights. Overnight in Cairo Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Fayoum Oasis, Lake Qarun, Wadi El Rayan - Drive to El Minya

Depart early from Cairo for an exciting day trip to the scenic Fayoum Oasis, a natural paradise located just 60 km southwest of the capital. Begin your exploration at Lake Qarun, one of Egypt’s oldest lakes, offering beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere. Continue to the breathtaking Wadi El Rayan Protected Area, famous for its cascading waterfalls—the only natural waterfalls in Egypt. Take in the stunning desert landscapes and visit Gebel El Mudawara, known for its dramatic rock formations and panoramic viewpoints. Next, explore the UNESCO-listed Wadi Al-Hitan (Valley of the Whales), where ancient whale fossils provide fascinating insight into prehistoric marine life. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature before continuing your journey to El Minya, often called the cultural heart of Upper Egypt. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax after a full day of exploration. Overnight in El Minya Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: El Minya, Visit Tombs, Beni Hasan

After breakfast at your hotel, begin an unforgettable journey through the fascinating archaeological treasures of El Minya, one of Upper Egypt’s most historically rich destinations. Your first stop will be the remarkable necropolis of Tuna El Gabal, the ancient burial site connected to the city of Hermopolis. This extraordinary area is home to the famous catacombs of sacred baboons and ibis birds, symbols of the god Thoth, the ancient Egyptian deity of wisdom and writing. You will also explore the beautifully preserved Tomb of Isadora, renowned for its romantic legend, as well as the Tomb of Petosiris, which combines both ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman artistic styles. During your visit, you will also see the ancient water wheel and the boundary stelae linked to the city of Akhenaten. Continue to Al Ashmunein, the ancient city of Hermopolis Magna, once a major religious center in ancient Egypt. Here, you will discover the open-air museum featuring colossal baboon statues and the impressive remains of a basilica church with elegant rose granite columns. Later, proceed to Beni Hasan on the eastern bank of the Nile. The site is famous for its spectacular Middle Kingdom rock-cut tombs decorated with scenes of daily life, military training, trading activities, and wrestling competitions, offering a vivid glimpse into ancient Egyptian society. Overnight at the hotel in El Minya Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Tell El Amarna, Visit Tombs - Assiut - Sohag

After breakfast, travel to the extraordinary archaeological site of Tell El Amarna, the ancient capital established by Pharaoh Akhenaten during the 18th Dynasty. This unique city was dedicated to the worship of Aten, the sun disk, and marked one of the most revolutionary religious periods in ancient Egyptian history. During your guided tour, you will explore the Northern Tombs and Southern Tombs of the nobles, the ruins of royal palaces, ancient temples, and the Royal Tomb of Akhenaten, all surrounded by the dramatic desert landscape of Middle Egypt. Following your exploration of Amarna, continue south toward Assiut, one of Egypt’s oldest cities and an important center along the Holy Family Trail. Here, you will visit the historic Al Muharraq Monastery, located about 48 kilometers north of Assiut. According to tradition, the Holy Family stayed at this sacred site for more than six months, making it one of the most spiritually significant Christian pilgrimage destinations in Egypt. Your journey then continues to Meir Village, home to remarkable rock-cut tombs belonging to the nomarchs of Cusae during the Old and Middle Kingdoms. The tombs are famous for their detailed inscriptions, colorful scenes, and unique depictions of local life. The area was also closely connected to the worship of the goddess Hathor, one of ancient Egypt’s most important deities. After a fascinating day of exploration, continue to Sohag for overnight. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Abydos and Dendera Temples - Drive to Luxor

After breakfast, begin your journey to Abydos, one of the holiest and most important religious sites in ancient Egypt. Your first stop will be Shunet El Zebib, the massive mudbrick funerary enclosure built by King Khasekhemwy of the Second Dynasty. Considered one of the earliest monumental structures in Egyptian history, this impressive fortress-like complex played a significant role in the development of ancient Egyptian architecture. Continue to the magnificent Temple of Seti I, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt. Built by Pharaoh Seti I and completed by his son Ramses II, the temple is celebrated for its exceptionally preserved colorful reliefs and detailed carvings. One of the highlights of the temple is the famous Abydos King List, which contains the cartouches of many ancient Egyptian pharaohs from Menes to Ramses II, making it a priceless historical record. After lunch, travel to the stunning Temple of Dendera, dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love, joy, music, and motherhood. The temple complex is among the best-preserved in Egypt and is renowned for its beautifully decorated ceilings featuring astronomical scenes and zodiac symbols. You will also explore the mysterious underground crypts, grand hypostyle halls, and remarkable reliefs that showcase the artistic brilliance of the Greco-Roman period. Following your visit, continue your scenic drive to Luxor, the world’s greatest open-air museum. Overnight in Luxor Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Karnak and Luxor Temples - 5* Nile Cruise

After breakfast at your hotel, begin your unforgettable tour of Luxor, often described as the world’s greatest open-air museum. Your day starts with a guided visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, the largest and most impressive religious site ever constructed in ancient Egypt. Explore the awe-inspiring Great Hypostyle Hall with its massive sandstone columns, admire the sacred shrines, towering obelisks, and beautifully decorated chapels dedicated to the powerful Theban gods. The vast complex reflects over 2,000 years of ancient Egyptian history and architectural achievement. Continue your sightseeing tour with a visit to the iconic Luxor Temple, beautifully situated on the east bank of the Nile in the heart of Luxor city. Originally built by Pharaoh Amenhotep III and later expanded by Ramses II, the temple is renowned for its colossal statues, majestic entrance, elegant colonnades, and remarkable blend of Pharaonic, Roman, Coptic, and Islamic heritage. The temple’s magical atmosphere becomes even more captivating under the soft evening lights. Following your tours, transfer by air-conditioned vehicle to embark on your 5-star Nile Cruise in Luxor. Upon arrival, complete your check-in and relax in your comfortable cabin before enjoying a delicious lunch on board while admiring the tranquil beauty of the Nile River. Overnight onboard Nile Cruise in Luxor Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatchepsut - Sailing to Edfu

After breakfast on board your deluxe Nile Cruise, begin an unforgettable journey to Luxor’s legendary West Bank, home to some of ancient Egypt’s most remarkable archaeological treasures. Your guided tour starts at the world-famous Valley of the Kings, the royal burial site of the New Kingdom pharaohs. Hidden deep within the Theban hills, this sacred necropolis contains beautifully decorated tombs filled with vivid hieroglyphics and fascinating scenes from ancient Egyptian mythology. Explore the tombs of mighty rulers who once governed Egypt during its golden age. Continue to the magnificent Temple of Hatshepsut, one of the finest examples of ancient Egyptian architecture. Built into the dramatic limestone cliffs at Deir el-Bahari, this mortuary temple honors Queen Hatshepsut, the most powerful female pharaoh in Egyptian history. Admire its elegant terraces, detailed reliefs, and breathtaking desert surroundings. Your Luxor sightseeing tour also includes a stop at the colossal Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues that have guarded the Theban necropolis for centuries. Return to your Nile Cruise for lunch as the ship begins sailing toward Edfu. Relax on deck while admiring the stunning scenery of the Nile Valley, passing traditional villages, green farmlands, and palm-lined riverbanks. For an unforgettable experience, an optional early morning hot air balloon ride over Luxor (available only in Luxor city in Egypt). Glide gently above the iconic Valley of the Kings, ancient temples, and the shimmering Nile as the sunrise casts a golden glow across the landscape. From the sky, Luxor reveals itself in breathtaking panoramic beauty. Overnight on board Nile Cruise Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples - Sailing to Aswan

Start your day with breakfast on board before visiting the extraordinary Temple of Edfu, one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt. Dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god, this magnificent Ptolemaic temple offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the religious traditions and architectural brilliance of ancient Egypt. Walk through its massive stone gateways, towering columns, and beautifully preserved halls decorated with intricate carvings and sacred inscriptions. After your Edfu Temple tour, return to the cruise and continue sailing south along the Nile River toward Kom Ombo. Enjoy lunch on board while admiring the peaceful landscapes of Upper Egypt. Upon arrival, visit the remarkable Temple of Kom Ombo, uniquely dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god associated with fertility and strength, and Horus the Elder, the falcon-headed protector god. The temple’s symmetrical design, detailed reliefs, and fascinating history make it one of the most distinctive temples along the Nile. You may also visit the Crocodile Museum, where mummified crocodiles and ancient artifacts reveal the importance of Sobek worship in this region. Continue sailing toward Aswan while enjoying afternoon tea, dinner, and entertainment on board your luxury Nile Cruise. Spend the evening relaxing as the ship glides through the tranquil waters of the Nile. Overnight on board Nile Cruise Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Aswan, High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, Philae Temple

After breakfast on board your Nile Cruise, discover the beauty and charm of Aswan, one of Egypt’s most picturesque cities and a gateway to Nubian culture and ancient monuments. Your guided Aswan sightseeing tour begins with a visit to the impressive Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering masterpiece built to control the Nile’s annual flooding and provide electricity throughout Egypt. From the top of the dam, enjoy panoramic views of Lake Nasser and the surrounding desert landscapes. Continue to the famous Unfinished Obelisk, located in the ancient granite quarries of Aswan. This enormous obelisk, still attached to the bedrock, offers fascinating insight into the stone-cutting techniques used by ancient Egyptian craftsmen. If completed, it would have been the largest obelisk ever erected in Egypt. Your tour then takes you to the breathtaking Philae Temple, beautifully situated on Agilkia Island. Dedicated to the goddesses Isis and Hathor, this enchanting temple complex is considered one of the most romantic and scenic sites in Egypt. Explore its elegant courtyards, towering pylons, and intricate carvings while learning about the legends surrounding Isis and Osiris. Overnight on board Nile Cruise Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Flight to Cairo, optional Khan-el-Khalili Bazaar visit

After breakfast, disembark from your Nile Cruise and transfer to Aswan International Airport for your domestic flight to Cairo. Upon arrival, you will be met and assisted by our representative before transferring to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for leisure in Cairo. You may choose to relax at your hotel or explore the vibrant Egyptian capital at your own pace. Optional excursion available, including visit to the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar Overnight in Cairo Meals: Breakfast

Day 13: Cairo, Departure Airport Transfer

After breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Cairo International Airport for your final departure flight. Our representative will assist you with airport formalities and ensure a smooth check-in process before your journey home. Your unforgettable Egypt tour comes to an end, leaving you with lasting memories of ancient temples, magnificent tombs, breathtaking Nile scenery. Meals: Breakfast

Package Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

4 nights accommodation in 4-5 stars Hotel in Cairo, (bed and breakfast basis)
2 nights accommodation in 4-5 stars Hotel in El Minya, (bed and breakfast basis)
1 night accommodation in 4-5 stars Hotel in Sohag, (bed and breakfast basis)
1 night accommodation in 4-5 stars Hotel in Luxor, (bed and breakfast basis)
4 nights accommodation on board 5* Nile Cruise, (full board basis)
Domestic flights (Aswan to Cairo)
Sightseeing tours as detailed in the itinerary
Traditional Egyptian Lunch in Cairo (Koshary or Fatta)
All transfer and transportation in modern air- conditioned vehicles
Services of English-speaking Egyptologist guide for all sightseeing tours
Entrance fees to all sightseeing
Meals as indicated in the itinerary

Exclusions

Package Destination Map

Trip Information & Guidelines

While our group tours are a great way to travel, most can also be booked privately for a more exclusive experience. Private tours offer greater flexibility, allowing you to customise the itinerary, accommodation, and pace to suit your preferences. They can run on the same dates as group tours or on alternative dates, though some activities may be limited to specific days.

Pricing depends on group size and any customisation. For a fully personalised experience, our team can design a tailor-made tour based on your interests and requirements.

Most sightseeing on a Nile cruise is included and is a highlight of the trip, with tours conducted by air-conditioned minibuses or coaches from the boat. Itineraries may change based on local conditions, and some sailing can occur at night. Special Gala Dinners are typically held on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, and their cost is usually compulsory and included in group tour prices, or added to private and tailor-made tours.

This cruise runs on limited dates and is subject to availability and vessel operation. Please confirm availability with us before booking international flights.
Shorter itineraries are available on request on alternate dates (12-day Cairo–Luxor, 13-day Aswan–Cairo, 10-day Luxor–Cairo)

Our small group tours typically use high-quality 5-star hotels in Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and Hurghada, with pools and dining options. Budget tours may use comfortable 3–4 star hotels, all with air-conditioned en-suite rooms. Some itineraries also feature charming Nubian-style hotels in Aswan.

Private and tailor-made tours offer a wider range, from mid-range 3–4 star hotels to luxury 5-star properties. Nile cruises usually operate on Egyptian 5-star boats (comparable to international 4-star standards), with deluxe, all-suite boats and Dahabiyas available for private tours.

Accommodation is in air-conditioned twin, double, or triple en-suite rooms or cabins.

Gala Dinners: Many hotels and cruise boats host special dinners on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. These may be optional or compulsory (especially on New Year’s Eve), with prices ranging from USD 50–150+. These are not included in tour prices and may be added if required.

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after your departure—please avoid travelling with a nearly full or expiring passport. Visa requirements are the traveller’s responsibility and may change, so check with your local Egyptian embassy or consulate before.

Although official advice recommends obtaining a visa in advance (via the official e-visa site), many nationalities can get a visa on arrival at Cairo Airport. This is a quick process, costs USD 30, and must be paid in cash (USD, GBP, or EUR). No forms or photos are required, and our representative will assist you on arrival.

Important Notes:

Canadian citizens must obtain a visa in advance.
African, Indian, and some other nationalities also need to arrange visas before travel.

For the latest requirements, please contact us or your nearest Egyptian embassy.

Bring any standard luggage (suitcase, backpack, or holdall), plus a small day bag. Your main luggage is usually left at the hotel during sightseeing, with porters available to assist. While there’s no tour luggage limit, airlines typically allow 20–25kg for checked bags and 5–10kg for hand luggage—please confirm with your airline.

Clothing: Egypt is generally hot, but evenings—especially in the desert—can be cool, so pack layers. Casual wear is fine; formal clothing is not required. Modest, loose-fitting clothes are recommended, particularly for women. In central Cairo and at mosques, arms and legs should be covered. Long sleeves are also useful for mosquito protection, especially on felucca trips.

Other Essentials: Consider bringing a light sleeping sheet (or a sleeping bag in winter for felucca trips), along with a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, basic first aid kit, toiletries, small towel, money belt, torch, camera, and charger.

TOUR SUMMARY

13 Days
Cairo to Cairo

Schedule: Every Monday & Saturday
From $2600 (p/p)

Country(ies): Egypt
Group Size: Min: 2 | Max: 12
Accommodation: 4-5 stars Hotels & Nile Cruise
Meals: Breakfasts – 12, Lunches – 10, Dinners – 5
Transport: A/C minibus/coach, Flight & Nile Cruise
Highlights: Great Pyramids of Giza, Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), Islamic Cairo, Traditional Lunch, Fayoum Oasis, Tell El Amarna, Abydos, Dendera, Karnak, Philae Temples Valley of the Kings