10 Day Egypt Wonders of the Pharaohs Cairo & Alexandria & The Nile & Abu Simbel

When it comes to visiting Egypt, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights, from colossal pyramids to ancient temples. This 10-day tour, offered by Look at Egypt Tours, promises to take you through Egypt’s most iconic landmarks with expert guides, comfortable hotels, and an enriching itinerary. While it’s a hefty investment, the extensive experience and access to world-famous sites make it well worth considering for anyone eager to explore Egypt in depth.

Our review highlights three standout features we love about this experience: the expertly curated itinerary, the seamless logistics, and the knowledgeable, passionate guides. Plus, you’ll get to cruise the Nile in luxury, explore lesser-known ruins, and visit the astonishing Abu Simbel temples.

That said, a potential drawback is the pace of the trip — it’s packed, which might be overwhelming for travelers seeking a more relaxed, slow-paced holiday. Still, if you’re enthusiastic about history and want a rundown, this tour is a fantastic fit. Perfect for first-timers, history buffs, and those who want an all-inclusive experience, this 10-day Egypt adventure covers a lot of ground with impressive value.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Luxury: Four nights at 5-star hotels and a 4-night Nile cruise ensure comfort and convenience.
• Expert Guides: Experienced Egyptologists enhance your understanding of each site, making history come alive.
• Extensive Itinerary: From the Pyramids to Abu Simbel, every major highlight is included.
• Seamless Logistics: Flights, transfers, and tickets are organized, removing hassle from your trip.
• Authentic Experiences: Enjoy local bazaars, traditional parties, and exquisite Egyptian cuisine.
• Good Value for the Price: At $2,850 per person, the trip offers considerable depth for a well-rounded Egyptian adventure.

A Thorough Breakdown of the 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Hotel Transfer

Your journey begins with a pickup upon arrival in Cairo, where you’ll be transferred to a luxurious hotel. This initial step ensures a smooth start to what will be a busy, rewarding trip.

Day 2: Cairo’s Ancient Wonders

The highlight of the day is the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. These are the only remaining wonders of the ancient world, and standing in front of them, you’ll understand why they’re often called the most iconic monuments on the planet. Travelers often mention how captivating it is to see these giants, especially knowing they were built thousands of years ago with primitive tools.

A visit to Saqqara offers a glimpse into early pyramid construction, featuring the Step Pyramid of Djoser — reputedly the earliest major stone pyramid in Egypt. The masonry and uniqueness of its six-tiered structure make it a must-see. A review mentions how the locally quarried clay sandstone used in construction gives it a distinctive, weathered look that has lasted millennia.

The afternoon includes exploring Memphis, the ancient capital of Lower Egypt, notable for the colossal statue of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx of Hatshepsut. These impressive sculptures make the ancient capital feel alive, offering a sense of grandeur from an era when Egypt was at its peak.

Day 3: Cairo’s Cultural Treasures

The Egyptian Museum is a treasure trove with over 120,000 artifacts, including the legendary treasures of King Tutankhamen. Many reviewers mention that their guides bring these stories to life, making the ancient relics more relatable and fascinating.

A walk through Khan El-Khalili bazaar reveals Cairo’s vibrant market culture, where you can haggle for spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, perched atop the Citadel, offers panoramic views of Cairo and a chance to appreciate Islamic architecture.

Day 4: Luxor’s Ancient Temples

Flying from Cairo to Luxor, you’ll visit the Luxor Temple and the Karnak Temple, two of Egypt’s most impressive religious sites. Luxor Temple, with its towering pylons and intricate hieroglyphs, is particularly atmospheric in the late afternoon light.

Karnak, a sprawling complex dedicated primarily to Amun, is a marvel of ancient engineering, with massive hypostyle halls and towering obelisks. One review highlights how the guides passionately explain the significance of each monument, making the experience more meaningful.

Day 5: The Royal Necropolises

The Valley of the Kings is the highlight, where you can enter Tombs of Pharaohs, including Tutankhamun’s. Despite the damage caused over centuries, the vivid wall paintings and reliefs continue to tell stories of the afterlife.

Adjacent to this is the Temple of Hatshepsut, built into the cliffs. The story of Queen Hatshepsut — ruling Egypt as a woman and building her own mortuary temple — adds a layer of intrigue, especially considering it was later defaced by her stepson.

The Colossi of Memnon are also worth a quick visit—these massive statues are silent witnesses to Egypt’s grandeur, standing for over 3,400 years.

Day 6: Temples of Upper Egypt

Crossing into Aswan, you’ll visit Temple of Kom Ombo, unique for being a double temple dedicated to Sobek (crocodile god) and Horus. Many mention how the symmetry of the site is striking.

The Temple of Horus is superbly preserved, with its roof intact — a rarity in Egyptian architecture. One traveler describes it as “one of the most atmospheric” sites, thanks to the desert sand preserving it from further decay.

Day 7: Abu Simbel & Philae

The trip to Abu Simbel is a long but rewarding 7-hour drive, but many reviewers say it’s worth every minute. The gigantic statues of Ramses II and the temple’s dramatic setting in Nubia create a scene straight out of a movie.

A boat ride by motorboat to the Temples of Philae offers a peaceful moment. These temples, rescued from flooding, are now on Agilika Island and are famous for their religious significance and beautiful columns.

Day 8: Return to Cairo

After flying back to Cairo, you’ll have the rest of the day to relax or explore more on your own. The logistical ease of combining flights with a Nile cruise is a plus, reviewers often comment on how smooth the transitions are, especially with the included transfers and tickets.

Day 9: Alexandria Sightseeing

A day trip to Alexandria introduces a different side of Egypt, with sights like Pompey’s Pillar, the Roman Catacombs, and the Qaitbay Citadel — built on the site of the original lighthouse. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina adds a modern touch, symbolizing Egypt’s ongoing cultural legacy.

Many travelers appreciate the local food and spices they’re introduced to during this day, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

Day 10: Farewell & Departure

The trip concludes with airport transfers, with many reviewers feeling they’ve gained a deep appreciation for Egypt’s monuments and culture. The organized logistics and local guides leave a lasting impression.

Detailed Review of the Experience

Accommodation & Transportation

Staying at 5-star hotels in Cairo and Luxor offers plenty of comfort after busy days of sightseeing. The full-board Nile cruise combines luxury with authentic ambiance, with reviewers noting the delicious food and the chance to socialize during the Galabeya party. The domestic flights between Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan remove long travel times, giving you more time to enjoy each destination.

Guides & Local Knowledge

One of the tour’s biggest strengths is the guides’ expertise. Many mention guides like Mo Salah and Hannah for their passion and deep knowledge. They excel at bringing history alive, sharing lesser-known stories, and answering questions with enthusiasm. The small group size (maximum of 2 travelers in some reviews) allows for personalized attention.

Sites & Experiences

Visiting the Pyramid complex, the Valley of the Kings, and Abu Simbel offers a comprehensive view of Egypt’s ancient civilization. Reviewers appreciated the timing of visits, avoiding the worst crowds and enjoying sites in the cooler mornings or late afternoons.

The Nile cruise stands out as a highlight — cruising in luxury while enjoying the scenery and onboard entertainment makes it a relaxing yet exciting experience. The traditional Galabeya party adds a fun, cultural touch to the cruise.

Food & Cultural Touches

Many travelers comment on the local cuisine — flavorful Egyptian dishes served onboard and in Alexandria. The bazaar visits in Cairo and Alexandria deliver authentic market vibes, with spices and crafts that create lasting memories.

Logistics & Value

While $2,850 is a significant investment, it includes flights, hotel stays, cruises, guides, and most entrance fees. The organized nature means less stress and more time enjoying the sites. Reviewers consistently praise how well-planned the trip feels, with many mentioning their guides went above and beyond to accommodate requests and unexpected changes.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day Egypt tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-structured experience. It balances luxury with authentic access to Egypt’s most famous sites, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone eager to see Egypt’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

The expert guides, luxury accommodations, and thorough itinerary ensure you get a meaningful, memorable journey. While the packed schedule might not suit those seeking a more relaxed pace, the value and depth of the experience make it a compelling option.

If you love history, vibrant markets, and stunning ancient monuments, this tour will leave you with stories and sights to cherish for a lifetime. It’s a careful blend of comfort, culture, and adventure that truly covers Egypt’s grandeur.

FAQs

• What’s included in this tour?

Flight transfers, 4 nights at 5-star Cairo hotels, 4 nights on a luxury Nile cruise, guided tours, entrance fees, and most meals are included.

• How long are the flights between cities?

The tour includes domestic flights from Cairo to Luxor, Luxor to Aswan, and Aswan back to Cairo, streamlining travel time and maximizing sightseeing.

• Are guides knowledgeable?

Yes. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Mo Salah and Hannah for their expertise and passion, which enrich the experience.

• Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

The maximum group size is two, making it ideal for couples or small groups. Solo travelers who enjoy small-group experiences will likely find it comfortable.

• What kind of accommodations are provided?

Expect five-star hotels in Cairo and luxurious Nile cruises, offering comfort after busy days exploring.

• How is the transportation arranged?

All transportation, including airport pickups, transfers, and flights, are organized for smooth transitions between stops.

• Is there a focus on authentic cultural experiences?

Absolutely. Visits to bazaars, participation in a traditional Galabeya party, and sampling local cuisine are highlights.

• What about the pace of the trip?

It’s quite full — designed for those who want to see as much as possible in a short time. Reviewers note it’s fast but well-organized.

• Can I customize or extend the trip?

The tour is pre-planned, but some reviewers mention their guides were flexible and accommodating. For further customization, contacting the provider beforehand is recommended.

• Is tipping included?

No, tips for guides and drivers are not included and are typically left to travelers’ discretion.

Overall, this Egypt tour offers a seamless, immersive experience into Egypt’s grandeur, perfect for those eager to tick off all the major sites while enjoying the comforts of luxury. If you want a carefully curated, engaging adventure, this trip covers all bases while providing authentic moments you’ll remember for years.