10 Day Ultimate Egypt Tour & Nile Cruise From Luxor to Aswan & Abu Simbel Inc

Traveling through Egypt’s iconic sites can be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—if you choose the right tour. The 10 Day Ultimate Egypt Tour & Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan & Abu Simbel promises a well-rounded experience that combines history, culture, comfort, and convenience. With glowing reviews and a comprehensive itinerary, it’s clear this tour appeals to those wanting an immersive and hassle-free journey into Egypt’s past.

What makes this package stand out? First, the expert Egyptologist guides who bring centuries of history to life with their knowledge and passion. Second, the luxury Nile cruise, offering a relaxing way to see some of Egypt’s most impressive sites along the river. Third, the inclusive nature—covering all entrance fees, meals, and transfers—means travelers can focus on enjoying the sights rather than worrying about logistics.

That said, one potential consideration is the accommodation quality during the nights outside the Nile cruise, as some reviewers have noted that hotel standards may vary. This tour is best suited for history buffs who value guided insights, comfort, and seamless planning, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting an all-in-one Egypt experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 10-day itinerary covering Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel highlights.
• Expert guides enhance understanding of Egypt’s history and culture.
• All-inclusive package with meals, entrance fees, and private transfers simplifies travel.
• Luxury Nile cruise offers four nights of comfort on the river.
• Authentic experiences like visiting the Valley of the Kings and the Pyramids.
• Mixed accommodations, with some concerns about hotel cleanliness noted in reviews.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Arrival and Hotel Check-in

Your Egyptian adventure begins as soon as you arrive. The tour assistance will meet and help with all formalities, making your transition smooth. From there, you’ll settle into your hotel for the night—your base as you prepare for the journey ahead.

While some reviews mention hotel quality issues, the convenience of a comfortable space after your travels is key. Expect a standard hotel, with the possibility of variability in cleanliness based on reviewer feedback, so packing some essentials is wise.

Day 2: The Pyramids of Giza and Sakkara

This day kicks off with the world-famous Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. These monuments are the crown jewel of Egypt’s ancient history and a must-see for any visitor. Your guide will help you appreciate the engineering marvels and the stories surrounding these structures.

Next, you’ll visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara, often called the earliest major stone structure. It’s fascinating to see how Egyptian pyramid design evolved, with its distinctive stepped shape. The guide will explain the significance of Imhotep’s innovative work—an early example of Egyptian architectural genius.

Finally, the trip to Memphis and Sakkara rounds out the day, where you’ll encounter Egypt’s largest man-made statues and learn about the country’s ancient capital. Noteworthy are the colossal statues of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx of Queen Hatshepsut, which provide a sense of Egypt’s grandeur.

Day 3: Cairo’s Museums and Historic Sites

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo holds over 120,000 artifacts, and your guide will select highlights to maximize your visit. From Tutankhamun’s treasures to everyday objects from antiquity, this museum offers a comprehensive glimpse into ancient Egypt.

The afternoon explores Coptic Cairo, with its churches and relics, including the Hanging Church. This area showcases Egypt’s Christian heritage and offers a different layer of history beyond pharaohs.

A visit to the Cairo Citadel provides panoramic views of the city and insight into medieval Islamic architecture. The day wraps up at Khan El-Khalili, Cairo’s bustling souk, where you can haggle for souvenirs or just soak in the lively atmosphere.

Day 4: Luxor Arrival and Museum Visits

Flying from Cairo to Luxor, you’ll be greeted and taken to the Luxor Museum, which impresses with its curated collection of artifacts from the Old Kingdom through the Mamluk period. It offers a more manageable and engaging alternative to the sprawling Egyptian Museum.

Next, the Mummification Museum explains the ancient craft of embalming, displaying preserved mummies and tools used in the process. It’s a fascinating peek into Egypt’s obsession with the afterlife and the care Egyptians took to preserve their dead.

Day 5: Temples of Luxor and Theban Necropolis

Today is dedicated to the iconic Karnak Temple, a sprawling complex dedicated to Amun, and the Luxor Temple, a striking monument on the Nile’s east bank. Both sites reveal Egypt’s religious architecture and royal power.

Expect to spend substantial time wandering these enormous sites, taking in the massive columns, hieroglyphs, and the incredible scale of these ancient constructions. The guides will point out subtle details, like the carved scenes and the significance of various pylons.

Day 6: The Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut’s Temple

This day is a highlight for history lovers. The Valley of the Kings hosts the tombs of Pharaohs like Ramses IV and Tutankhamun. While some tombs have suffered damage over the centuries, the tomb of Tutankhamun, discovered intact in 1922, remains an awe-inspiring sight (though you won’t visit his tomb directly).

The Temple of Hatshepsut is a stunning example of ancient Egyptian architecture, built into the cliffs near Deir el-Bahari. The story of Queen Hatshepsut, who ruled as a woman in a male-dominated society, adds intriguing context to her monument.

The Colossi of Memnon provide an impressive photo op—these massive statues of Amenhotep III have stood sentinel for over 3,400 years, offering a sense of their enduring legacy.

Day 7: Aswan and Temple Exploration

Traveling south, you’ll explore Horus Temple in Edfu—noted for its excellent preservation and atmospheric setting. The Temple of Kom Ombo is unique as a double temple dedicated to Sobek and Hathor, showcasing Egypt’s religious diversity.

The day culminates with the Abu Simbel visit, a long journey but well worth it. These colossal rock temples, built by Ramses II, are iconic symbols of Egypt’s grandeur. You’ll see the massive statues at the entrance and walk through halls filled with detailed carvings illustrating Ramses’ military victories.

Day 8: Abu Simbel and Return to Cairo

The early start to Abu Simbel allows for a full appreciation of these architectural giants. The journey involves a 9-hour visit, but the sight of the temples and the history embedded in their stones makes it worthwhile. The tour includes all entrance fees, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs.

Day 9: Flight Back to Cairo

After breakfast, you’ll fly back to Cairo, marking the end of your Nile cruise and site visits. This transition allows you to relax and reflect on the journey before your final day.

Day 10: Departure

The tour concludes with your guide escorting you to the airport—making sure your trip ends on a smooth note.

Practical Considerations and Realities

While the itinerary is packed with awe-inspiring sites, it’s important to keep in mind some practical points. The group size is private, so you’ll have personalized attention, but the pace can be intense, especially with early starts for Abu Simbel. The cost of $2,905 per person reflects the inclusion of flights, luxury Nile cruise, entrance fees, guides, and most meals, which adds up to excellent value considering the breadth of experiences.

Transportation on this tour is private and air-conditioned, helping beat the heat and fatigue. However, some guests have commented on the quality of accommodations outside the cruise, noting that hotel standards can vary. It’s advisable to prepare for potential hotel inconsistencies and pack accordingly.

The guides are a standout feature according to reviews, with many emphasizing their knowledge and friendly demeanor. One user praised the guides as fabulous, although some mentioned a less positive experience with hotel cleanliness, which is worth considering.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive introduction to Egypt’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s also great for those interested in history and culture, as the guides are well-versed in Egypt’s past. The luxury cruise adds a touch of relaxation, providing a break from busy sightseeing days.

Families may find the mix of sites suitable, but be prepared for long days, especially at Abu Simbel. Solo travelers will appreciate the seamless logistics and expert guides, creating a safe and insightful experience. Budget travelers might find the high price point a consideration, but the all-inclusive nature offers comfort and convenience.

The Sum Up

This 10 Day Ultimate Egypt Tour & Nile Cruise offers a rich, engaging, and comfortable way to explore Egypt’s most treasured sites. The inclusion of expert guides ensures that history is accessible and fascinating, while the Nile cruise provides a scenic and restful backdrop to your adventures. Although some accommodations may vary in quality, the overall experience is a balanced mix of education, beauty, and ease.

For those who want an in-depth, guided journey through Egypt’s ancient world, this tour provides excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a structured itinerary with all logistics handled, freeing them to focus on the awe-inspiring sights and stories that make Egypt a timeless destination.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The itinerary involves long days of sightseeing, so it’s best suited for families with older kids or teenagers interested in history.

Are all meals included?
Yes, the tour provides full board during the Nile cruise, which includes seven lunches, four dinners, and eight breakfasts.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many travelers cite Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings as standout moments, along with the expert guides who bring these sites to life.

How is transportation arranged?
All transfers, including flights from Cairo to Luxor and back, as well as private transfers between sites, are included and are air-conditioned for comfort.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and a light scarf for temple visits. Also, consider some snacks for long travel days.

Is the hotel accommodation quality consistent?
Most guests find the hotels comfortable, but some reviews mention that the quality varies. It’s worth packing some extra supplies if you’re concerned about cleanliness.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to six days before the start for a full refund. Less notice results in reduced or no refunds, so plan accordingly.

Does the tour include any optional activities?
The itinerary is fixed, and most activities are included. Additional optional excursions are not specified but could be available locally.

This detailed journey through Egypt offers a rare balance of guided expertise, culture, and relaxed comfort—perfect for anyone eager to experience Egypt’s treasures without the stress of planning every detail.