12-Night Private Tour: Amarna and El Minya with Cruise and Train

Planning a trip to Egypt can feel overwhelming, but if you’re after an itinerary that balances history, culture, and stunning scenery without the stress, this 12-night private tour might just be your answer. We’ve taken a close look at this well-rounded journey, and it offers a lot for those eager to see the highlights and some lesser-known gems.

What we love most? First, the expert guides who bring the stories to life. Second, the seamless combination of land, river, and rail travel creates a rich, varied experience. And third, the opportunity to visit sites like Amarna and El Minya—rare finds that many travelers miss—really sets this trip apart.

Of course, it’s not perfect; for some, the price might seem high, especially when entrance fees aren’t included, and the pace can be full-on for those who prefer relaxed sightseeing. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-guided adventure, with a taste for authentic encounters and historic sights.

Key Points

Expert Guides: Knowledgeable Egyptologists like Salah and Fathy Taher make the history accessible and engaging.
Variety of Transport: From private cars, trains, and Nile cruises to horse-drawn carriages—expect diverse ways to explore.
Authentic Sights: Unique visits to Amarna, Tell el-Amarna, and lesser-visited tombs give you a richer perspective.
Comfortable Accommodation: Options range from deluxe Nile cruises to quality hotels, ensuring restful nights.
Value for Money: The extensive itinerary, guided tours, and multiple modes of transport make this a good investment.
Balanced Itinerary: A mix of major landmarks and off-the-beaten-path sites keeps the experience fresh and meaningful.

Day 1-2: Cairo’s Icons and Hidden Treasures

Your adventure kicks off with a warm meet-and-greet at Cairo International Airport, where the staff ensure a smooth start. From there, it’s an exciting day visiting some of Egypt’s most iconic sites—the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx—plus the tomb of King Tut, which is often a highlight for first-timers. Our review sources mention that guides like Salah make these visits both informative and lively, sharing stories you won’t find in textbooks.

A trip to Saqqara offers a glimpse into Egypt’s earliest stone architecture with the Step Pyramid of Zoser, the oldest of its kind. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s deep knowledge made the experience more meaningful. The Serapeum, where bulls were worshipped and mummified, adds a fascinating layer to Egypt’s religious practices.

Optional visits to Dahshour—home to the Bent and Red Pyramids—are included if you prefer a more comprehensive day. Though entrance fees are not included, these sites are worth the extra effort for history buffs. The afternoon ends with a visit to Memphis, capturing the grandeur of Egypt’s ancient capital and the Ramses II statue, which is a photo opportunity and a cultural lesson in itself.

Day 3-4: From Cairo to El Minya and the Forgotten Capitals

Traveling from Cairo to El Minya by first-class train is a highlight, providing scenic views of the Egyptian countryside. Upon arrival, the focus shifts to Amarna, the city established by Pharaoh Akhenaten—an often-overlooked site that offers insight into a radical religious shift.

The Tell el-Amarna complex reveals tombs of supporters of Aten’s cult, including figures like Ahmose and Mahu. Reviews praise guides like Fathy Taher for unlocking the stories behind these tombs, which are less crowded but incredibly informative. Exploring the ruins of Tuna el-Gebel, the tomb of Petosiris, and the Ibis catacombs adds layers of discovery.

Day 5-7: Luxor’s Ancient West and East Banks

From El Minya, a train takes you to Luxor, the world’s greatest open-air museum. The Valley of the Nobles and Valley of the Kings are the star attractions. Expect to see ornate tombs of pharaohs like Ramses III and Tutankhamun, decorated with scenes depicting their journeys into the afterlife. One reviewer shared that the guides’ storytelling made these tombs come alive, especially when explaining the symbolism and religious significance.

On the East Bank, optional visits to Karnak and Luxor Temples showcase Egypt’s religious grandeur. The evening visit to Luxor Temple at night is particularly memorable, with the illuminated columns creating a spectacle that feels straight out of a movie.

Day 8-9: From Edfu to Abu Simbel

Sailing down the Nile from Luxor to Aswan is a relaxing highlight. Along the way, stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo introduce you to temples dedicated to gods Horus and Sobek. Expect guided tours filled with interesting stories about ancient Egyptian religion and architecture.

The optional trip to Abu Simbel is a must for history lovers. Described as awe-inspiring, these colossal temples dedicated to Ramses II are a once-in-a-lifetime sight. The reviews indicate that guides like Salah make the visit both educational and awe-inspiring, with some travelers noting that the scale and detail are truly impressive.

Day 10-12: Aswan and Beyond

In Aswan, you’ll visit the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Temple of Philae—a poetic site dedicated to Isis. The boat ride to the temple offers a picturesque moment, and the guide’s insights make the stories behind these monuments more tangible.

Optional excursions include a visit to Abu Simbel or relaxing in Nubian villages. The overnight sleeper train back to Cairo offers a chance to rest after busy days of sightseeing.

Day 13: Cairo’s Historic Heart

Your final day takes you through Old Cairo, exploring the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue. These sites highlight Egypt’s diverse religious history and give a different perspective from the ancient temples. The guide’s commentary helps contextualize their significance.

The tour’s logistics are designed for smooth transitions. Traveling by private vehicles, first-class train, and a deluxe Nile cruise ensures comfort, especially after long days of sightseeing. The accommodation options range from luxury hotels like the Cairo Pyramids Hotel and Aracan Eatape Luxor to the Nile cruise, which offers both sightseeing convenience and relaxation.

While the entrance fees are not included, the guided tours and transportation provide excellent value, considering the extensive sights covered. The addition of a private Egyptologist guide throughout elevates the experience, making historical details accessible and engaging.

At roughly $1,973 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive journey through Egypt’s key sites with multiple modes of transport and expert guides. Given the inclusion of hotel stays, train tickets, Nile cruise, and guided tours, the value is evident. Entrance fees are additional, but the guides’ storytelling often justifies the extra expense, making each site’s history more vivid.

The tour caters well to those who appreciate well-organized, expert-led experiences. For travelers who want to skip the hassle of planning logistics and prefer a richer, guided understanding of Egypt’s past, this is a solid investment.

Multiple travelers highlight the guides’ deep knowledge, with one mentioning Salah and Fathy Taher as particularly outstanding, making the history come alive. Others appreciated the diversity of transportation methods and the chance to see sites like Amarna, which many standard tours don’t include. One said, “This itinerary gave us a deep understanding of Akhenaten’s era,” illustrating how much more meaningful the trip feels with expert guidance.

Travelers also love the views—whether it’s sailing the Nile or exploring the tombs—and note the good value considering the length and scope of the trip. A common theme: the combination of major landmarks and lesser-visited sites makes this tour both comprehensive and special.

If you crave an Egypt experience that blends major attractions with hidden gems, guided by passionate Egyptologists, then this tour delivers. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, immersive journey that covers land, river, and rail, ensuring variety and comfort.

While the cost might seem high at first glance, the overall value—considering guides, accommodation, transportation, and unique sites—makes it worthwhile for those serious about exploring Egypt’s history in depth. Be ready for busy days and a full schedule, but in return, you get a richly layered adventure with authentic moments and expert storytelling.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone eager to see Egypt beyond the typical tourist routes. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, the combination of comfort, expert guidance, and diverse sights makes for a memorable Egyptian adventure.

Are entrance fees included in the tour price? No, entrance fees are not included. You’ll pay for individual sites, but guides often help explain their significance, making the extra cost worthwhile.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Generally yes, but expect full days and some walking. Guides will tailor explanations, but travelers should be comfortable with busy sightseeing days.

What modes of transportation are used during the tour? The tour includes private cars, first-class trains, Nile cruises, horse-drawn carriages, and small boats, offering a dynamic way to explore Egypt.

Are accommodations comfortable? Yes, options range from deluxe Nile cruises to quality hotels, providing a restful base after long days of touring.

Is the tour flexible? The itinerary is subject to change due to traffic, weather, or sailing schedules, but all key sites are guaranteed to be visited.

Can I customize the experience? Optional excursions are available for purchase, and guides are happy to share extra tips, but the core itinerary is fixed.

What about gratuities? Tips are suggested, and small cash is recommended for guides and staff.

Is WiFi available? WiFi is free in hotels but generally not available on the Nile cruise or during train travel.

To sum it up, this 12-night Egypt tour offers a well-rounded, expertly guided experience for those eager to see both the iconic and lesser-known treasures of Egypt. With comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and a variety of sites, it’s a strong choice for travelers who want to dive into Egypt’s history without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.