8 Days Egypt heart Cairo pyramids cruise

Traveling through Egypt’s ancient sites can feel like a whirlwind, with so many iconic landmarks spread across vast distances. That’s why this 8-day Egypt tour from Great Egypt Travel offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, comfortable transportation, and relaxing cruising — making it perfect for those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we love about this tour? First, it hits Cairo’s must-see wonders like the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, giving you a taste of Egypt’s astonishing history. Second, the full-board Nile cruise provides a luxurious way to explore Luxor, Kom Ombo, Edfu, and Aswan, with plenty of included meals and guided excursions. Lastly, the sustainable travel option using night trains instead of flights is a thoughtful touch that reduces your carbon footprint while offering authentic local experiences.

A small consideration? The schedule is quite packed, particularly with early mornings, long train and flight rides, and busy sightseeing days. If you prefer a slow-paced trip with more time at each site, this might feel a bit hurried. Still, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized, all-in-one adventure that covers the highlights with minimal fuss.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with excellent value, especially those interested in ancient Egyptian history, stunning Nile scenery, and hassle-free logistics.

Key Points

• All-in-one package combining Cairo’s highlights and Nile cruising for convenience
• Expert English guides provide insightful commentary and local knowledge
• Sustainable transportation through night train travel minimizes environmental impact
• Luxurious 5-star Nile cruise with full board, afternoon tea, and onboard amenities
• Well-organized itinerary packed with major sights, including temples, tombs, and local factories
• Ideal for history lovers and travelers seeking a seamless, guided journey

A Closer Look at the Package

This 8-day tour, offered by Great Egypt Travel, delivers a broad sweep of Egypt’s most famous sites while balancing comfort and efficiency. Priced at $700 per person, it represents solid value considering the included guiding, transport, entrance fees, and meals. But let’s unpack what this really means for you.

Starting in Cairo: The Historic Heart

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your Cairo or Giza accommodation or the airport, making arrivals hassle-free. After settling in, you’ll visit the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx, iconic symbols that still carry an aura of mystery. The pyramids are still very impressive in person, and many reviewers note that seeing them up close is a bucket list moment. Expect around two hours for this part, with optional extra costs for entrance tickets.

Following this, a visit to the Egypt Papyrus Institute offers insight into ancient Egypt’s paper-making techniques — a short, interesting stop that’s perfect for curious minds. The Egyptian Museum is next, hosting over 100,000 artifacts, ranging from Tutankhamun’s treasures to statues from different eras. The reviews mention that the museum’s extensive collection is a treasure trove, but it can be overwhelming; a knowledgeable guide will make it more digestible.

Finally, you’ll transfer to the Giza railway station to board a night sleeper train to Luxor. The train ride, approximately 10 hours, is a unique experience, and many travelers praise the comfort and convenience of this mode of transportation, avoiding a long daytime drive.

Luxor: The Treasure Trove of Temples and Tombs

Arriving in Luxor, your day starts with a pick-up from the station and a quick transfer to the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious site in Egypt. The scale and grandeur of Karnak often leave visitors awe-struck, especially when guided by experts who explain the complex symbolism and construction techniques. You’ll spend around two hours here, soaking in the impressive columns, hieroglyphs, and history.

Next, the Temple of Mut offers a more intimate look at Egyptian spiritual life, and many reviews highlight how they appreciated the less crowded feel here. Afterward, a visit to the Valley of the Kings brings you face-to-face with the tombs of ancient pharaohs. With original colors still visible, it’s clear why this site remains a favorite. Expect around two hours for this tour, and keep in mind that entrance fees are extra — a common theme across all sites.

The Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahari is another highlight, showcasing a stunning terraced structure dedicated to Egypt’s legendary female ruler. Many travelers comment on the breathtaking views and well-preserved architecture. The Colossi of Memnon are a quick photo stop, often praised for their majestic presence despite their age.

In the afternoon, you’ll relax on the luxury Nile cruise, where reviews frequently mention the delicious food and attentive service. The cruise ship, staying for four nights, is rated 5-star and offers full board, including afternoon tea — a lovely touch that makes relaxing between excursions easy.

Exploring Edfu and Kom Ombo: Temples of Power and Protection

The cruise’s next stops are Edfu and Kom Ombo, both unique in their offerings. The Edfu Temple, built over 2,000 years ago, is renowned as one of the best-preserved temples from ancient Egypt. Visitors often comment that it’s the highlight of the cruise, with impressive hieroglyphs and a sense of tranquility.

At Kom Ombo, you’ll see a temple dedicated to two gods: Horus and Sobek. The duality of the temple’s design fascinates many, and the attached crocodile mummies museum is a bonus, revealing the ancient Egyptians’ complex relationship with crocodiles. Although entrance fees are not included, many reviews suggest that the detailed guides and the well-maintained site elevate the experience.

Throughout these days, the sailing between sites is often described as peaceful, with the river views adding to the overall charm. The cruise’s onboard amenities, including afternoon tea and meals, keep travelers comfortable and well-fed after busy mornings.

Aswan and the Nile: Temples, Islands, and Felucca Rides

In Aswan, you’ll visit the Temple of Philae, dedicated to Goddess Isis. It’s often praised for its scenic setting on Agilkia Island and its well-preserved carvings. Many travelers mention the felucca boat ride — a gentle, one-hour sail on the Nile — as a relaxing highlight, perfect for watching the sunset or simply soaking in the scenery.

The tour also includes a visit to the Nubian village and the Cleopatra Palace Perfume Bazaar, where you gain insight into traditional perfume-making methods. Reviewers appreciated the authenticity of these stops, noting that they felt more like local experiences than tourist traps.

In the final days, a flight from Aswan to Cairo (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes) wraps up the trip, with a pickup from the airport to your hotel or the Giza area. The sleeper train back to Cairo offers a comfortable and nostalgic way to end an already memorable journey.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 8-day Egypt tour offers an excellent mix of history, culture, and relaxation, all bundled into a well-organized itinerary. The inclusion of guides, transportation, entrance fees, and meals simplifies planning and ensures you get the most out of your visit.

The full-board Nile cruise is a standout feature, allowing you to unwind in luxury while exploring key sites along the river. The use of night trains instead of flights adds a layer of authenticity and environmental consciousness, appreciated by many travelers.

While the schedule is tight — with early mornings and multiple site visits — most reviews highlight how the guides’ expertise and smooth logistics help make it manageable. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, this may feel rushed, but for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Egypt in one trip, it delivers.

This tour is particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and those looking for a value-packed, guided experience that covers Egypt’s top highlights without sacrificing comfort.

FAQ

What is included in the cost of $700?
The price covers guiding in English, transportation, entrance fees for included sites, meals during the tour, and accommodation at a 4-star Giza hotel and a 5-star Nile cruise. It also includes train and flight transfers as specified.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speaking French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Dutch are available for an extra fee. The default is English.

What type of transportation will I use?
The tour uses professional drivers, newer vehicles, night trains for travel between Cairo and Luxor, and domestic flights from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan.

How many days involve traveling?
Long travel days include 10 hours on the sleeper train from Giza to Luxor, approximately 1 hour flight from Cairo to Luxor, and another flight from Aswan to Cairo. These are balanced with days filled with sightseeing.

Are the site entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included for attractions like the pyramids, temples, and tombs, as these are paid directly to the government. However, the itinerary includes guided explanations, which enhance the experience.

Is food included throughout the trip?
Yes, breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included during your hotel stay and cruise, with afternoon tea and snacks onboard. Special dietary requests can be accommodated if notified in advance.

Final Verdict

This 8-day Egypt tour offers a superb balance of guided sightseeing, authentic experiences, and comfortable travel in a compact package. The combination of Cairo’s bustling streets and the tranquil Nile cruise provides a well-rounded snapshot of Egypt’s wonders. Perfect for first-timers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a hassle-free trip with expert guidance and luxurious touches.

While the itinerary is quite full, the positive reviews about the knowledgeable guides like Hassan and Dr. Gaber and the stunning sites suggest it’s a rewarding experience. If you’re after a thoughtful, immersive, and value-driven journey into Egypt’s ancient world, this tour should be high on your list.